Side-by-Side IQ Profile
**Problem Solving (Old English Sheepdog: 3/5, Brussels Griffon: 3/5)**: Both breeds demonstrate a moderate capacity for problem-solving, able to navigate daily challenges with some thought. The Old English Sheepdog often applies this practically, figuring out how to move objects or navigate complex environments, reflecting its herding background. The Brussels Griffon, while equally capable at 3/5, tends to use its intellect for domestic puzzles, like getting attention or reaching treats, often employing clever observation within its immediate surroundings.
**Training Speed (Old English Sheepdog: 3/5, Brussels Griffon: 3/5)**: With a 3/5 score, both learn new commands at an average pace, requiring consistent, positive reinforcement. The Old English Sheepdog, a cooperative working breed, generally responds well to structured training that utilizes its natural desire to please and work, becoming reliable once a task is understood. The Brussels Griffon also learns steadily but might require more engaging, bond-focused methods to overcome its independent streak, thriving on playful interaction rather than strict drills.
**Social Intelligence (Old English Sheepdog: 3/5, Brussels Griffon: 3/5)**: Both breeds show a 3/5 in social intelligence, indicating a moderate ability to interpret human cues. The Old English Sheepdog, having worked alongside humans, understands group dynamics and leadership, adapting its behavior to maintain harmony within its family 'flock.' The Brussels Griffon, a dedicated companion, excels at discerning individual owner emotions and intentions, using its charm and expressiveness for personal communication and intense bonding.
**Instinctive Drive (Old English Sheepdog: 3/5, Brussels Griffon: 3/5)**: While both score 3/5, their instinctive drives diverge. The Old English Sheepdog retains a moderate herding instinct, manifesting as a desire to gather or gently nudge family members, requiring appropriate outlets. The Brussels Griffon's drive is rooted in companionship, expressed as a strong need for attention, loyalty, and a surprising alertness, making it a keen little watchdog focused on its human family.
**Memory (Old English Sheepdog: 4/5, Brussels Griffon: 3/5)**: This is a key differentiator. The Old English Sheepdog's 4/5 memory is crucial for a working dog, enabling recall of complex routes, numerous commands, and long-term retention of information, contributing to its reliability. The Brussels Griffon's 3/5 memory is solid and functional for a companion, remembering routines and learned behaviors effectively, though it might require more frequent refreshers for less common commands compared to the Old English Sheepdog.
Where Old English Sheepdog Wins Cognitively
The Old English Sheepdog's standout cognitive strength is its superior memory, scoring a 4/5, which is a full point higher than the Brussels Griffon. This advanced recall capacity is fundamental to its working heritage, allowing it to remember intricate task sequences, extensive command sets, and environmental details over long periods. This cognitive advantage makes the OES exceptionally reliable in performing complex, multi-step behaviors and retaining learned knowledge, reducing the need for constant re-teaching and fostering greater independence in task execution.
Where Brussels Griffon Wins Cognitively
While sharing similar scores in several areas, the Brussels Griffon's cognitive 'win' is its finely honed social intelligence, at 3/5, coupled with its problem-solving for human interaction. Its intellect is exquisitely tailored for intimate companionship, allowing it to interpret subtle human emotions and intentions with remarkable accuracy. This breed excels at using its problem-solving abilities to engage with its owners, solicit affection, or communicate its specific needs, demonstrating a profound, relationship-centric understanding of its immediate social world that forms exceptionally strong bonds.
Which Is Easier to Train and Why
Both breeds possess a 3/5 training speed, but their inherent temperaments dictate different training approaches. The Old English Sheepdog's herding background means it often thrives on structured tasks and aims to please, making it receptive to consistent, positive reinforcement. Challenges might include managing its size and strength, or redirecting its natural herding instincts away from family members. Its excellent memory (4/5) ensures commands, once learned, are retained well. The Brussels Griffon, while capable, can exhibit a stubborn streak; its training success relies heavily on making sessions fun, engaging, and highly rewarding to maintain its attention and motivation. Its strong desire for human connection is a powerful motivator, but its independence means owners must be patient and creative, adapting to its charming, sometimes opinionated personality. Neither is inherently 'easier,' but rather requires an understanding of their distinct behavioral drivers.
Which Suits Active Owners vs. Relaxed Owners
The Old English Sheepdog, with its working lineage, demands an active lifestyle. Its moderate instinctive drive, even at 3/5, translates to a need for significant physical exercise and mental stimulation through activities like long walks, yard play, or dog sports. They are best suited for active owners who can provide ample space, consistent training, and engage their problem-solving minds, preventing boredom and channeling their energy productively. In contrast, the Brussels Griffon perfectly suits more relaxed or urban owners. Its exercise needs are modest, easily met with daily strolls and indoor play, and its strong social intelligence means it thrives on close companionship. They are ideal for individuals or families who appreciate a devoted, charming presence and prefer a cozy home life, adapting well to apartment living and providing constant, engaging interaction.
The Verdict
Choose an Old English Sheepdog if you are an active individual or family seeking a large, cooperative companion for outdoor adventures and consistent engagement, valuing a dog with strong memory and a desire for purpose.
Opt for a Brussels Griffon if you prefer a smaller, intensely loyal companion for a more relaxed lifestyle, appreciating a dog whose social intelligence and charm make them a devoted, engaging presence in your home.
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Take the Full IQ Test →Frequently Asked Questions
Do Old English Sheepdogs need a lot of grooming due to their coat?
Yes, Old English Sheepdogs have a dense, shaggy double coat that requires significant grooming, typically daily brushing to prevent mats and regular professional trims, which is an important consideration for potential owners.
Are Brussels Griffons good with children and other pets?
Brussels Griffons can be good with older, respectful children and other pets, especially if socialized early, but their small size makes them vulnerable to rough play and they often prefer the company of adults.
How do the barking tendencies compare between these two breeds?
Old English Sheepdogs can be vocal, using barks to communicate or alert, stemming from their herding instincts, while Brussels Griffons are also known to be alert barkers, often sounding off at perceived threats or to demand attention, despite their small size.