Meet Harvey: Britain’s brightest dog who recognises 221 toys and can fetch each one by name

Meet Harvey, a seven-year-old Border Collie who has been impressing people with his extraordinary intelligence all over the world for many years. He can recognise more than 200 words of toys to fetch by name, earning him the widely acclaimed title of “Britain’s brightest dog.” His remarkable skills have also made him enrol in various scientific studies of canine geniuses both at Portsmouth and Budapest universities. Irene Hewlett, the dedicated owner of Harvey, said she had initiated teaching him the names of toys when he was a small puppy, starting with just one toy called Little Lamb. Today, he has mastered an impressive 221 toys; the latest being Larry the Leek, proving his exceptional memory, problem-solving abilities, and cognitive skills hitherto rarely encountered in dogs.Harvey started with only one toy. He was introduced to "Little Lamb" by Irene, giving him the pleasure of touching and handling the toy until he knew what it was. This helped build the bond between the toy and its name through the strong memory connection developed. As Irene has clarified, Border Collies are working dogs and enjoy themselves when they have an assignment or task to undertake and perform. To Harvey, collecting the toy dog we call " retrieves" was an assigned and satisfying task every day.“He picks up new toys in about five minutes now. This is what we do all day, every day,” Irene shares, highlighting the dedication behind his training.From a single toy, Harvey’s collection has expanded to 221 items, ranging from plush animals to novelty and festive toys. Each new toy presents a challenge, especially when names are similar or textures are alike. Harvey has learned to differentiate using both his memory and sense of touch. This ability demonstrates advanced cognition, as he not only recognises individual toys but also recalls them quickly from multiple locations in the house.Irene emphasises that this activity is not for show. It is a daily routine that keeps Harvey mentally active, providing him with a task that satisfies his instincts as a working dog. Harvey’s talents have attracted scientific interest. The University of Portsmouth has identified fewer than ten dogs worldwide capable of learning hundreds of words and associating them with objects. Harvey has been accepted into multiple studies exploring canine intelligence, with researchers examining how dogs process information and develop exceptional skills.Dr Juliane Kaminski of Portsmouth University explains: “If we can identify these dogs, we could train them to assist people in their homes, helping with everyday tasks and providing practical support for those who need it.” Harvey’s games may serve as a blueprint to discover and train other gifted dogs for useful work, including support for charities and households.Harvey’s toy-finding routine is not only a test of intelligence but also a tool for behavioural balance. Unlike many Border Collies, who can be excitable or restless, Harvey approaches each task calmly and methodically. He retrieves toys without damage and returns them reliably, reflecting his discipline and emotional stability.Irene notes that friends and visitors are often astonished by Harvey’s abilities. “People sometimes don’t realise how good he is at it. They all think he’s so cute,” she says.Irene attributes the inspiration for the training to Chaser, a well-known American dog that mastered the names of more than 1,000 items. Eager to repeat the feat, Irene did not give up despite the initial difficulties she faced, which included the introduction of similar-looking or sounding toys. Gradually, Harvey was able to quickly understand the idea, and the training of the dog soon became a regular activity.Although Harvey is continuing to broaden his repertoire with toys, Irene does not intend to teach a second dog and instead wishes to concentrate on her talented Border Collie. But Harvey's abilities could have a significant impact. Scientists are hopeful to use these skills to find and train other dogs to help with tasks for people with practical needs. They could help people by fetching them some items or aiding people with special needs.