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About Temperament Tests
We use the Volhard Temperament Test
An example of our Evaluation
Sheet
A Temperament Test is a series of controlled situations,
evaluation of the dog's reaction to each situation establishes a better
understanding of a dog's interest, aptitude and personality. This information can be used to better match the dog
with an expectant family.
The Temperament Test is only as good as the evaluator
who does it. A Temperament Test is most accurate when it is done in
a location that the puppy has never been in, and by someone who has
never met the puppies. In order to get the best results, this tester
should be experienced in "reading canine behaviour" and in evaluating puppies.
A Temperament Test can be considered a "snap
shot" of a puppy on a particular day. Normally, a Temperament
Test is done when the puppy is between 7 and 8 weeks of age.
The information gained in a Temperament Test should be
added to that information already obtained by observing each puppy develop from birth
onwards. Changes and differences can be noted. Puppies are
very adaptable and their behaviour can be modified with thoughtful
training. The Temperament Test can give the breeder and the family
information that will help with understanding the puppy, and with
creating a training plan that will make the most of the puppy's natural
aptitudes and that will strengthen the weak areas.
In order to
make the best comparisons, the test should be done under similar
circumstances, in a similar environment, and at a similar time of day
for each puppy in the litter. On the day of the test, the puppies are fed about 2
hours before the test, then allowed to nap. They are brought to
the testing area after they wake up, and if it is a large litter, the
test may be done in two parts to prevent the puppies from tiring while
they wait or play, a tired puppy will not test well, and this will alter the scores.
Notes about testing: Thinking about Temperament
Testing your litter of Wirehaired Pointing Griffons? Griffons typically test "young", and so
this should be taken into consideration. Also, warn your evaluator
that the reaction to touch is
very subtle, as Griffon puppies are stoic and do not react to pain like other
breeds do. As the Griffon is a pointing and retrieving dog,
the retrieve is sometimes there, or sometimes the puppy will point the
tossed crumpled paper ball.
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