Anthropomorphism – attributing human characteristics to non-human creatures and beings.
In more familiar terms, an example of anthropomorphism that we witness today is us pet owners treating pets like humans. We’ve seen it all – people buying expensive accessories for their pets, putting cutesy clothes on them (which they abhor), throwing doggie birthday parties (or “bark” mitzvah), taking them to daycare and luxury pet hotels… the list goes on. Heck, I’m guilty of many if not all of these anthromorphistic behaviors. No wonder the pet industry is at $45 billion and growing.
People either think throwing dog birthday parties is cute or plain ridiculous, but people throw birthday parties for newborns. Newborns don’t even know that they have arms and legs. According to research, an average dog has the intelligence level of a 2-yr old toddler, and evolution has something to do with it. According to Professor Stanley Coren (horrible website btw), leading expert in canine intelligence:
“dogs are among the most intelligent animals and can rival apes and parrots for their ability to understand language.”
“centuries of selective breeding and living alongside humans has helped to hone the intelligence of dogs.”
So raising a dog is like having a 2yr old that never grows up but is potty-trained and will never nag, cry, or ask you for allowance or college funding. You gotta admit, that is pretty sweet.
The article from Telegraph.co.uk also lists the top 10 smartest dog breeds in order of doggie IQ. I found a source that lists top 80 breeds here, and guess who’s #11. 
1. Border Collie
2. Poodle
3. German Shepherd
4. Golden Retriever
5. Doberman Pinscher
6. Shetland Sheepdog
7. Labrador Retriever
8. Papillon
9. Rottweiler
10. Australian Cattle Dog
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
My Pembroke Welsh Corgi
So next time you attempt to converse with your dog (of above average intelligence), rest assured that you’re not just a crazy person talking to yourself.
