This quote is from the Temperament Test for Dogs website describing what temperament is.
“W. Handel, German Police Dog Trainer, in his article, “The Psychological Basis of Temperament Testing,” defines temperament as ‘the sum total of all inborn and acquired physical and mental traits and talents which determines, forms and regulates behavior in the environment.'”
That is the combination of Fixed Action Patterns and Learning abilities I described in an earlier blog post, and qualities that can be used in decision making when selecting a dog breed.
The American Temperament Test Society’s website describes the temperament test:
“The test simulates a casual walk through the park or neighborhood where everyday life situations are encountered. During this walk, the dog experiences visual, auditory and tactile stimuli. Neutral, friendly and threatening situations are encountered, calling into play the dog’s ability to distinguish between non-threatening situations and those calling for watchful and protective reactions.”
Quite challenging! The temperament testing website has dog breed statistics listed on how individual breeds have done overall. When reviewing the list, please keep in mind how many of each breed were tested. For example, Dobermanns have a much bigger pool of dogs tested than the Dandie Dinmount Terrier. The more dogs of a particular breed that are tested, the more likely you’ll find an accurate representation of that breed’s temperament. The temperament testing statistics on dogs are fun to peruse. But finding the right particular dog for your lifestyle goes beyond statistical results.
If you’re looking to adopt a rescue or bring a puppy into the family, Love Wags A Tail Dog Training in Fort Lauderdale can help you find the right dog.
By Helen Verte
Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Trick Dog Instructor
Dog Training Fort Lauderdale
