Dog Temperament Things to Consider

What is dog temperament? It’s the total of all inborn, hardwired and acquired physical and mental traits and talents which forms and influences behavior in the environment. One must look at not only inborn, breed specific hardwired behaviors but also what the dog may have experienced in the world.

Understanding a dog’s temperament will be very valuable when deciding which dog/puppy one wants to bring home. Each breed of dog has been bred for a specific job. Now many dog s are our companions not working alongside of us but nevertheless they will exhibit certain behaviors. Matching one’s life style and living arrangements with a breed of dog that will adapt well to those circumstances will nurture a harmonious life together.

Asking yourself the question. What is your reason for having a pet? If you run four miles every morning, go camping and hiking on weekends and want your dog to come along, then a working breed may be a good choice. If children are in the household, that’s a very important factor when choosing a dog/puppy. Of the approximately 4 million dog bites each year in the US almost 50% are children under 14 years of age. Children will make loud noises, can pull and grab and for some dogs this will be frightening with potentially defensive behavior as a result.

Please keep in mind that all dogs need appropriate physical and mental activity. Even a mild mannered pooch can find that being alone all day while you’re at the office is not working. A dog walker or doggy day care could provide that needed stimulus. Some dogs are very independent and have a lower energy level and being home alone is just fine.

Some temperament issues can be helped when the appropriate training is given. All dogs need some solid, basic training. Additional specific training to address behaviors can be effective. Good training will gain your dog’s attention and respect resulting in a more harmonious relationship.

Here are some temperament related factors to consider when choosing a dog/puppy.

Energy level

Intelligence

Loyalty, need to be with you

Aggressive, protective

Sensitivity, shy

Compatibility with other people and pets

Temperament testing has been developed to evaluate a dog’s shyness, aggressiveness, stability, protectiveness toward its owner and self preservation when a threat arises. Any one of the three behaviors below qualifies for not passing the temperament test. Each of the three behaviors could create some significant compatibility issues so give these behaviors some special consideration when choosing a new dog/puppy.

Unprovoked aggression

Panic without recovery

Strong avoidance


Temperament matters when choosing a dog/puppy. The ability to really look at your current life style and living conditions as well as what might be in store 5 to 10 years down the road is important. Why are you getting a dog/puppy and be clear on what’s important to you. Once you’re clear on what’s motivating you then a honest and clear assessment of your potential new dog’s temperament will help enhance your chances of connecting with that special pooch.