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TESTING YOUR PUPPIES
Why Test - After breeding for
several years, most of us feel that we know the temperaments of the
puppies we raise. However, taking the time to have your puppies
tested is well worth the effort and is often surprising. That quiet
or obnoxious pup may shine on the temperament test and show that he
is a great performance dog.
Joachim and Wendy Volhard have developed a group of activities
for testing the temperament of puppies that have proven very
valuable over time and are accepted by most animal behavorist. This
test with the test sheets is located
HERE
Testing Environment - Always have
well rested puppies before starting the test. The test should be
performed by someone who is a stranger to the puppies. It should
also be performed in a location new to the puppies. If they play in
the backyard, then test them in the frontyard. The puppy should be
alone with the tester without the other dogs, the breeder or their
family present (peak out the window or hide behind the fence). Also,
test the puppies prior to getting their ears cropped, about 6 or 7
weeks.
The Tester - Some people are
excellent at testing while others will make the puppies feel
uncomfortable. Therefore, it is best to have an experienced tester
recommended by another breeder. You can learn to be a tester, but
never test your own puppies.
Interpretating the Test - This
test is useful for finding the extremely dominant, agressive puppy
or the shy, fearful puppy. Evaluating puppies in between these two
extremes differs from breed to breed and will need further
interpretation by the breeder. I find that the test needs to be
interpreted by an experienced breeder and modified somewhat to fit
the breed. Obviously, an interpretation of a Golden Retriever test
would differ from the interpretation of an Irish Terrier test. It
is, however, very useful in showing the confident, self-assured
puppy. It is also useful in finding the quiet, gentle puppy that
will fit in a family with small children.
Performance Test - The obedience
aptitude part of the test is very useful for those looking for
performance dogs. Dogs that shine on this part of the test usually
are excellent in conformation, obedience, and agility. |
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