In a recent study, researchers have identified a unique group of dogs with exceptional word learning abilities. Unlike most dogs that typically pick up words related to activities like “walk” or “fetch,” these gifted word learners can understand upwards of 100 words, with some even capable of grasping over 1,000 toy names.
The study, published in the journal Science, revealed that these dogs seem to have an endless capacity for learning words, limited only by their owners’ patience and the space available for toys. The majority of these exceptional word learners were found to be Border Collies, although the skill is not specific to any particular breed.
Among the gifted dogs is Miso, a seven-year-old Border Collie from Oshawa, Ont., who can understand at least 200 words. Miso’s owner, Veronica Suen, discovered his remarkable ability when she participated in the Genius Dog Challenge, led by researcher Shany Dror, which aimed to identify dogs capable of recognizing multiple toy names.
Another example is Remi, a five-year-old mini goldendoodle from Pickering, Ont., who demonstrated her word learning skills by picking up words through eavesdropping during virtual classes. These dogs participated in word recall tests conducted by Dror, where they displayed remarkable abilities to identify toys based on verbal cues.
While these dogs exhibit word learning capabilities akin to toddlers, it is essential to note that they are learning words, not language. Dror emphasized the distinction, highlighting that language involves a complex mechanism beyond simply understanding names. Andrea Breen, an associate professor at the University of Guelph, explained that even though dogs may exhibit behaviors similar to children in word learning tasks, their underlying thoughts and learning mechanisms differ.
To help your dog develop similar skills, Breen suggests spending quality time with them, engaging in activities that are meaningful and enjoyable. By fostering a strong bond and social interaction, dogs can potentially showcase hidden capabilities beyond what is commonly acknowledged.
In conclusion, these gifted word learning dogs offer a fascinating insight into the cognitive abilities of our canine companions, showcasing their unique talents and potential for learning and communication.