Side-by-Side Cognitive Profiles from The Cosmic Pet Pet IQ Lab
The Cosmic Pet Pet IQ Lab evaluates canine cognition across five core dimensions, providing a detailed look beyond general perceptions. For the Maltese, ranked #59 by Coren for working intelligence, we observe a balanced profile with a standout social aptitude. Their Problem Solving is rated 3/5, indicating a moderate ability to navigate novel situations and figure out basic puzzles, while their Training Speed also scores 3/5, suggesting they learn new commands at a steady, consistent pace. The Maltese truly distinguishes itself in Social Intelligence, achieving a perfect 5/5, showcasing an exceptional capacity for emotional attunement and human connection. Conversely, their Instinctive Drive is a lower 2/5, meaning they are less compelled by primal urges like hunting or territoriality, and their Memory stands at 3/5, allowing them to retain routines and learned behaviors reliably.
The Brussels Griffon, though not receiving a Coren ranking, presents a fascinatingly different, yet in some areas similar, cognitive blueprint according to our lab data. Like the Maltese, they also score 3/5 in both Problem Solving and Training Speed, indicating a comparable capacity for learning and adapting to new challenges. However, their Social Intelligence is a moderate 3/5, suggesting they enjoy companionship but may not possess the same intense emotional radar as the Maltese. Where the Brussels Griffon edges out its counterpart is in Instinctive Drive, scoring 3/5. This higher drive points to a slightly more inquisitive nature, a greater propensity for exploration, or a more pronounced interest in engaging with their environment. Their Memory, identical to the Maltese, is also 3/5, ensuring they too hold onto their learned experiences effectively.
Where the Maltese Wins Cognitively
The Maltese's undeniable strength lies in its profound Social Intelligence, rated at an exceptional 5/5. This isn't merely about enjoying human company; it signifies an advanced capacity to read and respond to human emotions, body language, and subtle social cues. A Maltese often seems to anticipate its owner's moods, offering comfort during sadness or mirroring joy with playful antics. They excel in environments where close companionship and emotional exchange are paramount, easily integrating into family dynamics and forming deep, intuitive bonds.
This superior social understanding also contributes to their adaptability in various social settings, making them generally well-behaved in new company or around unfamiliar pets, provided they are properly socialized. Their cognitive focus is less on independent exploration or instinctual pursuits and more on maintaining harmony and connection within their human pack. This means they are often content with simply being near their people, absorbing the emotional atmosphere and offering silent, empathetic companionship, a trait that makes them cherished emotional support animals for many.
Where the Brussels Griffon Wins Cognitively
The Brussels Griffon's cognitive edge can be found in its slightly elevated Instinctive Drive, rated 3/5 compared to the Maltese's 2/5. While still a Toy breed, this difference implies a more pronounced curiosity and a greater inclination towards independent exploration and engagement with their surroundings. Brussels Griffons often possess a charmingly self-sufficient streak, enjoying bursts of playful antics that are less reliant on direct human prompting. They might be more inclined to investigate new smells, chase after a rolling toy with gusto, or exhibit a playful “hunting” behavior with small objects.
This higher drive suggests a dog that finds satisfaction in a broader range of activities beyond pure companionship, even if those activities are confined to a living room. They may display a more robust sense of adventure during walks, showing keen interest in their environment rather than solely focusing on their human's presence. This subtle yet significant difference indicates a dog that, while still affectionate, possesses a stronger internal motivation to interact with the physical world, making them delightful companions for owners who appreciate a touch of independent spirit and playful zest.
Which is Easier to Train and Why
Based on The Cosmic Pet Pet IQ Lab data, both Maltese and Brussels Griffons share a Training Speed rating of 3/5, suggesting they absorb new commands at a comparable, moderate pace. However, the ease of training extends beyond raw learning speed and is significantly influenced by other cognitive dimensions, particularly Social Intelligence and Instinctive Drive. The Maltese, with its 5/5 Social Intelligence, often proves easier to train due to its intense desire to please and its deep attunement to human emotional responses. They are highly motivated by praise, affection, and maintaining a harmonious connection with their owner, making them very receptive to positive reinforcement methods. Their lower Instinctive Drive also means fewer distractions from environmental stimuli, allowing them to focus more intently on the task at hand and their trainer's cues.
In contrast, while the Brussels Griffon also learns at a 3/5 speed, its 3/5 Instinctive Drive can present a slightly different training dynamic. This higher drive might translate into moments of independent thought, where curiosity about a smell or a sudden urge to chase a dust bunny temporarily outweighs their focus on training. Their 3/5 Social Intelligence, though perfectly adequate for a loving bond, means they might not be as intensely motivated by human approval alone as the Maltese. Training a Brussels Griffon may require a bit more creativity, engaging their inquisitive nature with varied rewards and keeping sessions lively to maintain their attention against their slightly stronger internal urges. Consistency and patience are key for both, but the Maltese's social wiring often makes the process feel more intuitive and less prone to 'stubborn' moments.
Which Suits Active Owners vs. Relaxed Owners
When matching these breeds to owner lifestyles, their cognitive profiles offer clear guidance. The Maltese, with its lower 2/5 Instinctive Drive and exceptional 5/5 Social Intelligence, is an ideal fit for relaxed owners who prioritize intimate companionship and gentle, indoor-centric activities. They are generally content with short walks, cuddle sessions, and quiet observation from a lap, thriving on consistent human interaction rather than demanding extensive physical exertion or complex mental tasks. Their profound social connection means they are happiest when deeply integrated into the family's daily routine, providing empathetic presence without requiring constant stimulation or adventurous outings. They are perfect for those seeking a devoted, emotionally responsive shadow.
The Brussels Griffon, conversely, with its 3/5 Instinctive Drive and moderate 3/5 Social Intelligence, might appeal more to owners who enjoy a slightly more engaged and varied daily routine, even if still within a relaxed framework. While still a Toy breed not requiring marathon runs, their higher drive suggests they appreciate more opportunities for exploration, short bursts of energetic play, or interactive games that tap into their inquisitive nature. They are affectionate but also possess a charming independent streak, making them suitable for owners who enjoy a dog that can entertain itself for periods and shows a keen interest in its surroundings. This breed thrives with owners who can provide a balance of affectionate companionship and opportunities for their natural curiosity and playful instincts to flourish.
The Verdict
Select the Maltese if you seek a companion defined by profound social bonding, exceptional emotional attunement, and a gentle presence less driven by primal instincts. They are ideal for those desiring a deeply empathetic and responsive partner who thrives on close connection and peaceful companionship.
Opt for the Brussels Griffon if you appreciate a charming companion with a touch more independent spirit, a moderate innate drive for curiosity and play, and a slightly more robust engagement with their environment. They suit owners who enjoy a dog with character, a spark of adventure, and a delightful, inquisitive nature.
🧠 Find Your Pet's IQ Score
Our Pet IQ Lab assessment covers 25+ tests across 5 cognitive dimensions — personalized to your breed.
Take the Full IQ Test →Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltese prone to separation anxiety due to their high social intelligence?
Yes, their exceptional 5/5 Social Intelligence means Maltese form very strong attachments and can be more susceptible to separation anxiety if not properly acclimated to alone time from a young age. Consistent training and gradual increases in solitude are crucial to help them cope.
Do Brussels Griffons tend to be more vocal than Maltese?
While individual personalities vary, the Brussels Griffon's slightly higher 3/5 Instinctive Drive might lead to them being more vocal in response to environmental stimuli, such as new sounds or visitors, compared to the less instinctively driven Maltese. Early training is beneficial to manage any excessive barking tendencies.
How do their memory scores impact daily life and training?
Both breeds score 3/5 in Memory, meaning they have a solid ability to recall commands, routines, and experiences. This ensures they can reliably learn and follow household rules and tricks, making daily living predictable and training efforts rewarding through consistent reinforcement.