Dogs Playing Poker: Who needs thumbs, anyway?

I still find it funny today. Now, however, I wonder more about the individual personalities of those dogs and what kinds of players they were at the poker table.Below is a list of the most intelligent dog breeds, probably the only breeds that would be able to handle the highly psychological game of poker, according to the accomplished author, Stanley Coren, of the publication entitled “The Intelligence of Dogs.” Both a psychologist and trainer, Mr. Coren studies the psychological makeup of dogs in an attempt to answer many questions about canine emotions and intelligence.

According to Stanley Coren, there are three types of dog intelligence:

• Adaptive Intelligence(learning and problem-solving ability) – This is specific to the individual animal and is measured by canine IQ tests.
• Instinctive Intelligence– This is specific to the individual animal and is measured by canine IQ tests.
• Working/Obedience Intelligence– This is breed dependent.

So, without further ado, here are the seven breeds I imagine would be sitting around a poker table, smoking cigars, sharing cat-chasing stories, and sniffing each others… well… derrieres… in the classic painting.

In seat 1 – Bixby the Border Collie: Because of their legendary intelligence, Border Collies set the standard in competitions for such skills as agility, obedience, and of course, sheepdog trials. Stu Unger comes to mind. Both Stu and the Border Collie are prone to getting destructive if left alone all day.

In seat 2 – A Poodle named Sue:Yes, the Poodle is at number two. The standard Poodle is highly intelligent and one of the easiest breeds to train. Their happy demeanor at the poker table would liven up the game. Think Daniel Negreanu.

In seat 3 – Jimmy the German Shepherd: German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, courageous, and have a very strong protective instinct. Tight and solid play at the poker table would make Jimmy a formidable opponent as he plays only strong hands, and makes timely bluffs that are respected by the other dogs.

In seat 4 – Charlie the Golden Retriever: Loyal, loving, patient, great with children and eager to please, Charlie would take all your chips, but then take you out for a Popsicle afterward.

In seat 5 – Dieter the Doberman Pinscher:Dobermans are an extremely loyal, assertive, and fearless breed. They have incredible stamina and love to work. This makes them perfect for tournament play. I believe Dieter has cashed in the last 10 World Series of Poker Main Events For Dogs.

In seat 6 – Macabone the Shetland Sheepdog: Many Shetland owners swear that their dog has nearly human intelligence!They were originally bred to herd hundreds of sheep and cattle, requiring great concentration and, of course, intelligence. Think Johnny Chan, as he was also very good at herding other players’ chips.

In seat 7 – Hunter the Labrador Retriever: Gotta include a Lab on this list because of their legendary patience. I believe Phil Ivey has a Lab. I could be wrong on that, though.

So, there you have it. The top 7 most intelligent poker playing dogs. Of course, all of these breeds wouldn’t be able to beat out Snoop Dogg, unless Snoop was in some sort of altered state. Plus, my grandparents never had a painting of Snoop on their bathroom wall.

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