It's Official: Dogs Are Smarter Than Cats

by
posted on November 29, 2010
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
dogs_ah2015_fs.jpg (13)

An Oxford University study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences settles an age-old argument: Dogs are indeed smarter than cats. The study suggests that animals benefit intellectually from interactions within a peer group. Over time, social species develop greater mental capacity than animals who prefer to go-it-alone.

"Dogs have always been regarded as the more social animals while cats like to get on with their own thing alone. But it appears that interaction is good for the brain and extends to other species, like ourselves," said Dr. Susanne Shultz, who led the research.

So, fellow dog owners, our animals are officially smarter and unofficially less of a pain in theass than cats.We could point out to cat owners that while their animals contribute almost nothing tosociety, dogs are great for such useful tasks as finding quail, fetching ducks and chasing away solicitors;however, before we get too cocky, let's exercise a little humility. After all, another study suggests cat owners are smarter than dog owners.

Latest

Lasagna Soup Lede 3
Lasagna Soup Lede 3

Recipe: Venison Lasagna Soup

Lasagna is comfort food for many, and an energy-rich meal for hunters spending the entire day afield. To shorten the cook time and enjoy the same flavors, try this excellent lasagna soup recipe from Brad Fenson.

New for 2025: Chiappa 86 Wildlands Angle Ejection Takedown

Chiappa has continued its tradition of producing fine modern firearms with a pedigree in the past, with the 86 Wildlands Angle Ejection Takedown, a lever-action worth a closer look.

How To Use Trail Cameras to Find More Bucks and Bulls

Get some tips from Scott Haugen on how to optimize your trail cam grid this season.

New for 2025: Davidson's Exclusive Bergara B-14 FSP Hunter Stainless

Davidson’s has collaborated with Bergara to produce the first complete Bergara rifle with a stainless-steel barreled action available in the USA.

New for 2025: Leica USA Rangemaster CRF Max

Leica Sport Optics USA has unveiled the Leica Rangemaster CRF Max. Designed for hunters and long-range shooters who demand precision and reliability, the CRF Max combines Leica’s optical performance with cutting-edge digital integration and a new heads-up display.

Boone and Crockett Club Poaching Data Published

Did you know that the majority of wildlife violations never result in citations? Sure, with so much ground to cover, it may be easy to guess that most violations committed deep in the backcountry will never see the light of day, but the scale is still quite surprising. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.