Do you know what kind of dog ranks high when it comes to intelligence? According to Stanley Coren’s “intelligence of Dogs,” a Plott hound secured the 23rd place in terms of working intelligence. Do you find that surprising? Well, grab your favorite mug of hot cocoa, toss a chew toy to your furry friend, and let’s dive deep into the world of our amazing fur-friends, the Plott hounds.
A Brief History Of Plott Hounds
Before we dive into the discussion of whether a Plott is the smartest dog or not, let’s learn a little bit about their origin. In the mountains of Western North Carolina, a man named Johannes Plott began breeding a line of coonhounds in the mid to late 18th century—a breed that would eventually carry his name: the Plott Hound. If that doesn’t amuse you, consider this – the Plott Hound is the only coonhound breed not developed in the deep South. Even more interesting is that it’s also the only breed of coonhound that traces its ancestry back to Germany instead of England or France!
How Do We Measure Canine Intelligence?
Before we can answer the question stage center here – “Is the Plott Hound the smartest dog?” – it’s crucial to understand how we measure a dog’s intelligence. Research indicates that defining or measuring canine intelligence isn’t that different from how we gauge human intelligence. Typically, canine intelligence is assessed in three primary dimensions:
1. Instinctive intelligence. This is about the skill each dog breed was initially developed for, such as herding, retrieving, tracking, and more.
2. Adaptive intelligence. This refers to a dog’s ability to solve problems and learn from previous experiences.
3. Working/Obedience intelligence. This is determined by a dog’s ability to learn and follow commands.
So, Where Do Plott Hounds Stand?
Plott Hounds, primarily bred for hunting and tracking, score exceptionally high when it comes to their instinctive intelligence. As we dive into their adaptive intelligence, this breed is also known to be problem solvers, often figuring things out for themselves.
But what about their obedience intelligence? It’s important to note that while Plott Hounds are known to be smart, they’re also known for their independence, which can sometimes be perceived as stubbornness. They may not always obey your command the first time you say it, but that doesn’t mean they don’t understand.
Being smart is not all about obeying commands. It’s about being able to evaluate the situation and make decisions accordingly – something Plott Hounds seem to excel in.
Training and Nurturing Intelligence
Just like any other breed, a Plott Hound’s intelligence level is greatly influenced by its early puppyhood training and environment. Socialization, exposure to different environments, new people, various experiences, and obedience classes can dramatically enhance a dog’s intelligence.
Remember, intelligence in dogs, like in all animals, isn’t a fixed trait—it is flexible and can be developed with time, patience, and training.
Personality Matters!
No discussion of a Plott Hound’s intellect can be complete without talking about its personality and temperament. Plott Hounds are known for their affectionate, confident, and fearless nature. They adjust well in different environments and can easily become part of the family. They are smart, protective, and agile, making them excellent family pets.
Their protective nature and high alertness do not mean they are aggressive. They are gentle-natured, making them compatible with kids, too. Their compatibility factor, along with their intellectual abilities, brings them closer to the smartest breeds of dogs.
Tips and Tricks to Train a Plott
Training a Plott dog can be an adventurous journey owing to their independent nature. However, with the right training practices, you can bring out the best in your Plott Hound, enhancing their intelligence even more.
1. Positive Reinforcement: Plott Hounds respond well to positive reinforcement. The more you praise them for good behavior, the more they’ll want to behave well.
2. Consistent Rules: Consistency is key in any training program. The same rules should apply at all times. Mixed signals can confuse your Plott.
3. Early Socialization: Early socialization can help your Plott get along well with other dogs and people.
4. Mental Stimulation: Plott Hounds are highly intelligent and need plenty of mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, agility training, and nose work can all help keep their brain sharp.
5. Patience: Remember, every dog has its own pace. Be patient and persistent in your training efforts.
Wrapped-Up: Is a Plott the Smartest Dog?
To sum it up, it all depends on what yardstick you’re using to measure ‘dog smarts’. When it comes to instinctive and adaptive intelligence, a Plott hound can definitely rank high. They’re intelligent, loving, and quick to adapt – traits that place them among the smartest of breeds.
So, if you have a Plott Hound wagging its tail at home, give it a pat on the head for its intellect, and if you’re considering bringing one home, rest assured you’re making a ‘smart’ choice!
In the end, remember this – every dog breed has its own unique strengths. What matters the most is the connection between you and your furry friend. As dog-lovers, we can definitely agree on one thing: all dogs are the best dogs!
