[Dailydrool] basset intelligence

[Aryeh Meir]

it's been fun reading people's responses to the 'news' that bassets 
are stupid.

this is really old, old news. when i was looking for a new dog i 
quickly discovered that if you look at any dog 'intelligence' chart 
on the net you'll find that bassets are pretty much at the bottom( 
99th place out of 100!)  Only the poor old Afghan hound ranks lower!

i immediately dismissed them because of critical flaw that they 
measure intelligence by the ability to obey commands.  And has ben 
pointed out here that is not what bassets are bred for!  They're 
supposed to be independent 'do it yourselfers'  etc. etc.

My only question is why is this point never raised when dog 
intelligence is tested?  to me it seems obvious that if i want 
something tracked i'd use a hound dog.  i wouldn't use a retriever or 
a greyhound!  nor would i expect a brain surgeon to fix my 
car!  different skill set required.  but these dog intelligence 
stories are just news filler.  intelligent question are never asked, for sure.

ps.  that dog 'whisperer' who told his customers to get a real dog 
can stick it where the sun don't shine!