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.