Choosing the right puppy for service dog work can feel overwhelming. However, with a well-structured temperament test and careful breeder research, you can significantly increase your chances of success. In this guide, we’ll cover why temperament testing matters, key assessment items, and what to look for in a breeder. Plus, you can check out my YouTube video embedded below for a detailed walkthrough of the process.
Why Temperament Testing is Crucial
Temperament testing helps determine if a puppy has the potential to thrive as a service dog. Even the best training methods won’t succeed if a dog lacks the right temperament. Puppies with confidence, resilience, and eagerness to learn are better suited for service dog tasks and adapt more easily to new environments.
A temperament test also evaluates key traits such as:
• Social attraction: The ability to bond with humans.
• Body sensitivity: Comfort with handling and physical interactions.
• Recovery from startling events: Resilience after unexpected situations.
• Drive: Motivation to work, play, and learn.
Watch my video below for a detailed breakdown of these tests and why they matter
Key Assessment Items for Temperament Testing
Social Attraction and Willingness to Follow
Observe how the puppy interacts with people. Do they approach with a wagging tail and relaxed body language? Puppies who naturally seek human interaction are more likely to form strong working bonds.
Body Sensitivity
Gently handle the puppy’s paws, ears, and muzzle to gauge their comfort level. Service dogs must tolerate unexpected handling, such as a child pulling their tail, without reacting aggressively.
Response to Startling Events
Drop a safe object, like a book, and observe the puppy’s reaction. A quick recovery shows resilience, a crucial trait for service dogs.
Play and Prey Drive
Engage the puppy with toys to assess their interest in chasing, retrieving, or tugging. Balanced drive is important—too little drive indicates low motivation, while excessive drive can be difficult to manage.
Food Drive and Problem Solving
Test the puppy’s willingness to work for food. Will they take treats from your hand, or paw at a container to retrieve hidden food? Strong food motivation makes training more efficient.
Breeder Considerations
When selecting a breeder, ensure they provide:
1. Health clearances: Look for OFA results or other breed-specific health certifications.
2. Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS): Programs like Puppy Culture build resilience and confidence through structured handling exercises.
3. A history of service dog placements: Prior placements indicate the breeder’s expertise in producing dogs suited for service work.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Even with a thorough temperament test and an ideal breeder, there are no guarantees. Genetics and maturity can influence temperament, so it’s essential to remain flexible and reevaluate as your puppy grows.
Quick Tips for a Successful Temperament Test
• Choose a quiet environment: Minimize distractions for clear responses.
• Prepare your tools: Bring toys, treats, and a safe object for startling tests.
• Record the session: Video allows you to review and catch subtle behaviors you might miss in real time.
Ready to Start Your Service Dog Training Journey?
If you’re ready to take the next step in training a service dog, check out my Service Dog A-Z Training Blueprint. For just $19, this course provides:
• A clear training roadmap.
• Key milestones to work on during self-training.
• Tips for public access and interacting with the public.
Start building the foundation for a successful service dog today!
Final Thoughts
Temperament testing is a powerful tool to help you select a puppy with the best potential for service work. Combine this with proper training and breeder selection to set your dog up for success. Watch my video for additional insights, and don’t forget to grab your Service Dog A-Z Training Blueprint for a step-by-step guide.
I also have other service dog training courses you can check out for my more advanced people!
If you found this post helpful, share it with others and comment below with your biggest takeaway. Happy training!