What is a Temperament Test and Why is it used?

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About Temperament Tests

We use the Volhard Temperament Test

An example of our Evaluation Form 

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.  

© Shannon Ford 2009

In Addition to the Temperament Test
(See Temperament Test Evaluation Form)

Some additional things we make note of when observing 
the traits important to each puppy in the field/water/forest

Puppy Field Evaluation Form

To evaluate the elements in the form above, the puppy is observed in daily life, as 
well as on hikes or outings in the forest and through water.

Puppy Conformation Evaluation Form

To evaluate the elements in the form above, the puppy is observed at 8 weeks of age, moving on an even surface, the evaluator may place the puppy on a stand in order to line up the body. Photographing the puppy is very helpful, as long as the photographic lens or angle does not distort the proportions of the puppy.