Testing for temperament

Yesterday was an exciting day for the pups. They each took a turn venturing out to the family room. A place none had been until now. The reason for this is when testing for temperament or aptitude, it is best if it is done in an unfamiliar place so you can get a feel for each puppy's true personality.

A total of 10 tests are performed with each one resulting in a correlating numeric score from 1 to 6. The test results are then interpreted accordingly.

Pictured below are a few of the pups during a part of their testing.

Lucy during the Sight sensitivity test. This part of the test reveals the degree of intelligent response to a strange object. There are a number of possible responses listed on the test and each is assigned a certain numeric score.

Snoopy during the Touch sensitivity test. This part of the test determines the degree of sensitivity to touch.

Sally during Sight sensitivity test.

Schroeder during the Retrieving test. This test shows the degree of willingness to work with a human. There is a high correlation between the ability to retrieve and successful guide dogs, obedience dogs, and field trial dogs.

Patty during the Elevation dominance test. This part of the test measures the degree of accepting dominance while in a position of no control.

 





Almost all of the pups received an average score of mostly 3's. This indicates a puppy who will be a fine family dog if he receives sufficient training and exercise. Something that every Dalmatian should have regardless of test results.

These scores are ideal for a dog destined to become a show and/or obedience dog, but he will need training and structure to be an optimum family dog in most homes. This type of personality is very typical in Dalmatians.

Most of the pups also received one or more 4's which indicates a puppy who will be perfect for the average family. Not dominant, readily accepting restraint, and usually mild mannered and gentle. This puppy should be well socialized and should not be trained using harsh methods. Again, this is the form of training that most any dog should receive.

A puppy receiving scores which include both 3's and 4's indicates a puppy who will be suitable for all situations. Most breeders would prefer their pet puppies to have this type of personality.

This next week will be a busy one for me more so than for the pups. I, along with another breeder friend of mine, will be evaluating the structure and overall appearance of the pups. I will also be putting the puppy books together for each of the prospective new owners.

Each puppy book will include the health examination form, vaccination record, hearing test result, microchip information and also some useful general information about care and feeding of the new puppy. This information is very important as it will hopefully get each puppy off to a positive start on a long and happy, healthy life!