Interpreting the Scores
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Mostly 1's - A puppy that consistently
scores a 1 in the temperment section of the test is an extremely dominant,
aggressive puppy who can easily be provoked to bite. His dominant
nature will attempt to resist human leadership, thus requiring only the
most experienced of handlers. This puppy is a poor choice for most
individuals and will do best in a working situation as a guard or police
dog.
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Mostly 2's - This pup is dominant
and self-assured. He can be provoked to bite; however he readily accepts
human leadership that is firm, consistent and knowledgeable. This
is not a dog for a tentative, indecisive individual. In the right
hands, he has the potential to become a fine working or show dog and could
fit into an adult household, provided the owners know what they are doing.
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Mostly 3's - This pup is outgoing
and friendly and will adjust well in situations in which he recieves regular
training and exercise. He has a flexible temperment that adapts well to
different types of environment, provided he is handled correctly.
May be too much dog for a family with small children or an elderly couple
who are sedentary.
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Mostly 4's - A pup that scores
a majority of 4's is an easily controlled, adaptable puppy whose submissive
nature will make him continually look to his master for leadership.
This pup is easy to train, reliable with kids, and, though he lacks self-confidence,
makes a high-quality family pet. He is usually less outgoing than
a pup scoring in the 3's, but his demeanor is gentle and affectionate.
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Mostly 5's - This is a pup
who is extremely submissive and lacking in self-confidence. He bonds
very closely with his owner and requires regular companionship and encouragement
to bring him out of himself. If handled incorrectly, this pup will
grow up very shy and fearful. For this reason, he will do his best
in a preditable, structured lifestyle with owners who are patient and not
overly demanding, such as an elderly couple.
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Mostly 6's - A puppy that scores
6 consistently is independent and uninterested in people. He will
mature into a dog who is not demonstrably affectionate and who has a low
need for human companionship. In general, it is rare to see properly
socialized pups test this way; however there are several breeds that have
been bred for specific tasks (such as basenjis, hounds, and some northern
breeds) which can exhibit this level of independence. To perform
as intended, these dogs require the singularity of purpose that is not
compromised by strong attachments to their owner.
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