Maltese vs Old English Sheepdog: IQ & Training

Side-by-Side IQ Profile

**Maltese (Coren rank #59):** This toy breed's cognitive makeup includes Problem Solving at 3/5, reflecting an ability to navigate domestic environments and creatively seek attention or comfort. Their Training Speed is 3/5, meaning they learn commands at a moderate pace, often motivated by positive reinforcement and their bond with humans. Exceptionally, their Social Intelligence scores 5/5, indicating profound attunement to human emotions and social cues, making them masters of companionship. With an Instinctive Drive of 2/5, their motivations are primarily social interaction and comfort, rather than prey or herding. Memory at 3/5 suggests good recall for routines and familiar contexts, but less for complex sequences.

**Old English Sheepdog (Coren rank #44):** This Herding group member also scores 3/5 in Problem Solving, demonstrating capability in practical challenges related to their environment, often with strong spatial awareness. Their Training Speed is 3/5, allowing them to learn commands moderately, thriving with consistent, engaging training that leverages their working heritage. Social Intelligence is 3/5; they are friendly and family-oriented but may not possess the Maltese's acute sensitivity to subtle emotional shifts. A moderate Instinctive Drive of 3/5 reflects their herding background, manifesting as a desire to be busy. Crucially, their Memory is a robust 4/5, indicating a strong capacity for retaining learned tasks, complex routes, and established routines, vital for their historical roles.

Where Maltese Wins Cognitively

The Maltese’s most significant cognitive strength lies in their exceptional Social Intelligence, scoring 5/5 against the Old English Sheepdog’s 3/5. This reflects a profound capacity for emotional attunement; a Maltese often anticipates owner needs or moods, offering comfort or soliciting play at opportune moments. This acute sensitivity fosters deep, intuitive bonds, making them adept at emotional connection within a household. Their cognitive strengths are largely directed towards relational intelligence, allowing them to understand and respond to human interaction nuances. Their problem-solving, though rated similarly, frequently manifests as clever social strategies, such as using specific vocalizations to gain attention or treats.

Where Old English Sheepdog Wins Cognitively

The Old English Sheepdog excels in Memory, with a robust 4/5 compared to the Maltese's 3/5. This enhanced capacity allows them to retain complex command sequences, routes, or tasks over time, making them adept at activities requiring consistent recall and pattern recognition, like advanced obedience or agility. Their historical role as herders demanded this ability to remember territories and manage livestock. Additionally, their moderate Instinctive Drive of 3/5 provides a natural inclination towards purpose-driven activities and structured engagement. When appropriately channeled, this drive makes them more engaged in complex tasks and less prone to idleness. Their problem-solving (3/5) is often geared towards environmental manipulation or task completion, reflecting a practical, action-oriented approach.

Which is Easier to Train and Why

Both breeds share a Training Speed of 3/5, but their trainability differs based on other cognitive traits. The Maltese, with superior Social Intelligence (5/5), is highly motivated by pleasing their owner and receiving affection. Training is most effective with positive reinforcement and strong emotional bonds, leading to quick learning for basic commands when social interaction or praise is the reward. Their lower Instinctive Drive (2/5) means fewer ingrained behavioral distractions, simplifying general household manners. The Old English Sheepdog, with moderate Instinctive Drive (3/5) and stronger Memory (4/5), suits more complex, multi-step tasks. Training must be consistent and engaging, tapping into their desire for a "job." While they respond to positive reinforcement, motivation often leans towards task completion or mental challenge. Their herding instinct might require redirection. For basic compliance through social learning, the Maltese might feel easier. For structured, complex task-based training, the Old English Sheepdog could be more rewarding if their working intellect is engaged.

Which Suits Active Owners vs Relaxed Owners

Lifestyle compatibility varies significantly. The Maltese suits relaxed owners or those with moderate activity levels. Their exercise needs are modest, met by indoor play, short daily walks, or gentle yard romps. Their high Social Intelligence means mental stimulation primarily comes from intricate family interactions, rather than strenuous physical activity. They are content as lap dogs but enjoy a good stroll. In contrast, the Old English Sheepdog is for active owners. Their herding heritage and size demand regular, vigorous exercise for physical and mental well-being. Long walks, energetic playtime, hiking, or dog sports are essential. They require mental stimulation beyond cuddles, enjoying new tricks and having a "purpose." A relaxed owner unable to provide sufficient outlets for their energy and drive might find an Old English Sheepdog challenging, potentially leading to boredom-induced behaviors.

The Verdict