Are Cat Owners Smarter Than Dog Owners?

At DiggityDog, we love our canine companions, but we aren't afraid to look at the cold, hard science. Over the last decade, several psychological studies have attempted to settle the score. The results are fascinating, slightly controversial, and reveal a lot about how our personalities dictate the animals we bring into our homes.

The Carroll University Study: A Statistical Bombshell

In 2014, a study led by Denise Guastello, an associate professor of psychology at Carroll University in Wisconsin, sent shockwaves through the pet-owning community. The study surveyed 600 college students, assessing their personality traits and intelligence, while also identifying them as "dog people" or "cat people."

The findings were clear: **Cat owners scored significantly higher on intelligence tests than dog owners.**

However, before cat owners take a victory lap, it’s important to understand the *context* of these findings. The study didn't suggest that buying a cat makes you smarter. Rather, it suggested that people with certain intellectual and personality traits are naturally drawn to the low-maintenance, independent nature of cats.

Openness vs. Agreeableness

To understand why cat owners might score higher on IQ tests, we have to look at the "Big Five" personality traits. Psychologists often find that cat owners score higher in **Openness to Experience**. This trait is strongly correlated with curiosity, abstract thinking, and artistic interest—all of which are pillars of high cognitive function.

On the flip side, dog owners consistently score higher in **Agreeableness** and **Extroversion**. Dog people are often social butterflies who value community, rules, and group cohesion. While these traits don't necessarily lower one’s IQ, they do suggest a different *type* of intelligence—social and emotional intelligence (EQ)—which is often just as critical for success as the analytical intelligence (IQ) measured in standardized tests.

The "Urban Living" Factor

There is also a socioeconomic element at play. Statistical data often shows that cat ownership is more prevalent in urban environments and among people with higher levels of education who work long hours. If you are a high-earning professional living in a city apartment, a cat is a practical choice. Because these demographics also correlate with higher IQ scores, the "smart cat owner" may simply be a byproduct of urban professional life.

Is It About IQ or Lifestyle?

When we ask if cat owners are "smarter," we are often looking at a specific *type* of intelligence. If you define intelligence as the ability to sit quietly, read a book, and process abstract information, then the data leans toward the cat owner. If you define intelligence as the ability to navigate complex social hierarchies, lead a team, and maintain high physical energy, the dog owner often takes the lead.

Consider the daily routine. A dog owner must be disciplined: walking at 6 AM, managing training sessions, and interacting with other owners at the park. This requires a high level of executive function and social navigation. A cat owner’s environment is more conducive to solitary intellectual pursuits—coding, writing, or studying—which may naturally attract those with higher academic leanings.

The Neuroticism Link

There is a catch for the "smarter" cat owners. Various studies, including research from the University of Texas at Austin, have suggested that cat people are 11% more likely to be **neurotic**. High intelligence is often a "double-edged sword" that comes with increased anxiety and overthinking. Dog owners, by contrast, tend to be more emotionally stable and less prone to stress—perhaps because their pets force them to get outside and exercise every single day.

Why We Choose What We Choose

Ultimately, the "intelligence gap" is less about the animal and more about the mirror the animal provides. We choose pets that fit our vision of ourselves.

• The Dog Person: Seeks a partner in adventure, a loyal companion, and a social bridge.
• The Cat Person: Seeks a quiet co-habitant, an independent spirit, and a low-demand presence.

It is worth noting that many "highly intelligent" people own both. The "dual-pet owner" often possesses the most balanced personality profile, combining the openness of the cat owner with the agreeableness of the dog lover.

Final Verdict: Does It Matter?

While the statistics might give a slight edge to cat owners in the realm of standardized IQ, the difference is not enough to make a definitive judgment on any individual. Intelligence is a multifaceted gem. Whether you are solving a complex equation with a cat on your lap or navigating a difficult trail with a dog by your side, both activities require a sophisticated brain and a heart capable of deep connection.

J.V. CHARLES

Our team consists of behaviorists, trainers, and passionate pet lovers dedicated to debunking myths and providing science-backed advice for every animal lover.