Dogs have a remarkably stronger sense of smell than their human counterparts. Human beings possess only 5 to 6 million scent receptors, whereas dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors, according to Medical Detection Dogs. It means that their noses are 10,000 to 100,000 times better than a man’s.
Canine sense of sight is also unique compared to humans. They have a wider field of vision and better night vision. However, they only have two types of cone cells. So, unlike humans, they are better at detecting motion than colors.
Do you know? While humans see around 180 degrees, dogs see around 240 degrees. It means that dogs have a better peripheral vision. Some sighthounds can even see 290 degrees, as mentioned by FirstVet.
The excellent noses and keen vision of these dogs make them well-suited for various roles. Have a look at the top 7 dog breeds with the best combination of sight and smell.
Dog Breeds With Best Combination of Sight And Smell
1. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback, also known as African Lion Dog, was originally bred as a versatile hunting dog. These days, these intelligent canines make wonderful family pets due to their unwavering loyalty. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have an excellent sense of smell.
They can track scents over long distances, so consider engaging them in scent games by simply hiding treats around the house or the yard. Their hunting heritage also contributes to their excellent vision. The eyes are set more towards the side of the head, providing them with a wide vision.
However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are vulnerable to certain eye anomalies, some of which can cause blindness if not treated right away. These large and muscular dogs have an athletic build. They are quite intelligent and have a strong instinct to please their humans.
2. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile and energetic dog known for its intelligence and athleticism. They are equipped with a strong sense of smell and a knack for hunting and pointing. Their agility and high trainability make them well-suited for field trials and obedience competitions.
GSPs are the all-purpose gundogs that are skilled at swimming, hunting dangerous animals, and navigating through tough terrains. These pointer dogs commonly serve as search and rescue dogs and excel in police work, thanks to their keen noses.
Due to their hunting heritage, GSPs also possess an excellent sense of sight. According to Purina, GSPs are healthy dogs, but they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders. GSPs make loyal companions and excellent watchdogs. They tend to behave well around kids.
3. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are the “graceful goofballs” characterized by their distinctive silver coat. These friendly and fearless canines were originally bred as hunting dogs and are closely related to bloodhounds. This historical lineage contributes to their excellent sense of smell.
Their keen noses make them one of the paw-some tracking dogs who dominate in tracking competitions. Not only do they detect scents with great precision, but Weimaraners also have the best sense of sight. They possess alert eyes with a wide almond shape.
Common eye colors include gray or blue-gray tones with black pupils. They are susceptible to a genetic eye condition in which, when the eyelids roll inward, eyelashes rub on the cornea of the eye. This results in redness, pain, and corneal ulcers. Surgery may be needed to cure this condition.
4. Vizsla
Vizsla, also known as Hungarian Vizsla, is another hunting dog having a strong desire to chase and capture prey. Thanks to their historical lineage, they have a sharp sense of smell and make excellent companions on a scent trail.
Vizslas are scent hounds that diligently track the wounded game or elusive game trying to escape. After locating the prey, they freeze while pointing in its direction. It allows the hunters to quickly locate the game. As pets, Vizslas are gentle dogs who love spending time with kids.
These “Velcro dogs” love staying close to their humans and thrive on companionship. They tend to develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods.
Vizslas possess a lot of athleticism and boundless energy. They need plenty of exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. They are highly intelligent and need activities to keep them occupied, as per Hill’s Pet.
5. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a duck-hunting dog, having a powerful sense of smell. Their ability to track and sniff makes them valuable for detection work and search and rescue missions. They even work with hospitals and patients to sniff out medical issues, such as cancer.
Labs are immensely affectionate and eager to please. These highly trainable canines possess unmatched intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a strong affinity for water and makes an avid swimmer. Their love for water makes them suitable for water-related missions.
This breed is commonly used as a seeing-eye dog for humans. According to PetMD, they have a keen sense of sight, closer to 20/20. Labradors are friendly, outgoing, and high–spirited companions who like giving and receiving attention. These enthusiastic athletes are known for their social personality.
6. Golden Retriever
America’s favorite dog, the Golden Retriever, is a friendly and devoted canine. Goldens have an excellent sense of smell and make wonderful therapy dogs. They have been employed as trauma dogs for several decades and are often brought to the areas where natural disasters have occurred.
They are well-suited for such situations due to their keen senses and affectionate nature. With their strong nose and sharp vision, they can help find missing people, trails, and even food. Goldens need proper training with positive reinforcement and early socialization to behave well.
They have medium to dark brown eyes with a kind impression. Golden Retrievers are highly sociable fellows who can be characterized by their striking golden coats. They are known for their intelligence, empathy, and playfulness. Goldens need a minimum of two hours of daily exercise to stay fit.
7. English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniels were originally bred to flush ducks and waterfowl and retrieve them to their owners after they were shot. Their sense of smell might not be as strong as a Bloodhound’s, but they are often used for detecting explosives and sniffing for drugs at airports.
The dog owners having this Spaniel breed need to take out plenty of time and energy to fulfill their exercise and energy needs. These muscular and tough dogs have beautifully colored coats. They are up for scent detection in any season, be it hot or cold.
As family pets, English Springer Spaniels are good with children and bond firmly with their owners. They crave attention and become miserable when neglected, according to the American Kennel Club. These eager-to-please dogs enjoy long walks, games of fetch, and participating in family activities.
Conclusion
While some dogs are prized for their loyalty and affection, other breeds are popular among dog lovers due to their keen senses. Several dogs are known for having an amazing sense of vision and smell, such as Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Golden Retrievers, and German Shorthaired Pointers.
These pooches often have a hunting or retrieving history and a lot of intelligence. They make excellent family pets due to the gentle and calm side of their personality. If you are planning to adopt a tracking or hunting dog, consider proper training and socialization before bringing them home.
