September 2026

Written By R.U. Steinberg

  • The American Kennel Club does accept mixed-breed dogs in some sporting events, though not in breed-specific competitions.

  • A recent study by the University of Helsinki found the Belgian Malinois excelled at several cognitive tasks, while Border Collies excelled at others. It did not establish the Malinois as scientifically “the smartest dog breed in the world.”

  • Your tone of voice is everything when talking to your dog. Unless you have taught your dog to respond to specific words, it doesn't matter what you say, but rather how you say it. Your dog will recognize whether your tone reflects pleasure, love, sadness, disappointment, or worry. A cheerful voice may be a signal that you want to play, while a high-volume, high-pitched voice may get your dog's immediate attention.

  • Once a month or so, TKO Tattoos in Eltham, Australia hosts a Greyhound and Whippet life drawing class. Money raised through the classes benefits a rescue service called Greyt Greys.

  • Researchers estimate that dogs are generally as intelligent as a two-year-old human.

R.U. Steinberg

Mr. Smarty Pants read the above information in a book, magazine, newspaper, or website; heard it on the radio; saw it on television; or overheard it a party. Got any facts? Email them to Mr. Smarty Pants for possible inclusion in the column at MrPants@AustinChronicle.com.

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August 2026