Animals will be tested at Aberdeen University

Aberdeen University is running IQ tests on pedigree and crossbreeds to see which ones are smarter.

Researchers hope the tests, mostly involving hidden food, will prove mongrels are able to work as police dogs or guide dogs for the blind.

The move has been prompted by a shortage of pedigree animals available for training.

Dr David Smith, of Aberdeen University's department of animal sciences, will study whether mongrels can surprise a few people in the IQ tests.

Joint problems

Around 200 dogs will be tested during the research programme, which will mark them out of 30.

Dr Smith said: "Pure bred dogs are used as police dogs and they can sometimes have problems such as joint problems.

"If you can use crossbreed dogs then maybe that's a better choice of dog."

The research will study pedigree dogs and crossbreeds

Intelligence will be measured by tests including ones where the dogs will try to retrieve treats from inside tubes or under couches.

The research coincides with the launch of a Grampian Police drive on Tuesday to encourage dog owners to bring their pets forward to see if they are suitable for a life fighting crime.

Chief Inspector Zandra Holden, head of Grampian Police specialist support, launched the Give a Dog a Badge scheme in Aberdeen.

She said: "Pure bred dogs have a drive in them for retrieving objects."

However, police are now keeping a keen eye on the research to see how crossbreeds measure up in the intelligence stakes.