Other Dogs

We are looking for their reaction to another dog in this section. Ideally, we would like to see a neutral or interested dog that is overall friendly. If your dog experiences excitement reactivity, we will ask that you address this behavior before starting service work. Fear or aggression is a disqualifier from our program.

Novel Items

For this section, we will show your dog a novel object such as a statue, statue of a dog, Halloween decorations, etc. We are looking for interest or neutrality.

Pet Attempt

Here, someone will walk by and reach out to pet your dog. They typically do not complete the action for safety purposes, but we are looking to see how quickly your dog can bounce back from direct attention. Any aggression or moderate-severe fear responses will disqualify your dog.

Handler Sensitivity

For this, you are not prompted to do anything; we simply notate how your pup reacts to you for the entirety of the session.

Energy Levels

As an adult dog over two, your dog’s energy levels are becoming the norm. We will view and notate how excitable your dog is; excitability is okay, however so much excitement they are stressed will indicate they may need some additional help calming down in public.

Strange Humans

We are looking for interest and overall friendliness in this section. They do not have to be perfectly behaved; however they cannot show reactivity or otherwise fear/aggression. Human reactivity or aggression is a disqualifier from our program.

New Environments

In this portion of the temperament test, we are ensuring your dog is comfortable/curious in new environments. Fear or anxiety could cause issue with service work as you are going to new places regularly.

Underfootings

We are looking for your dog’s reaction to abnormal floorings in this section. How do they respond to tile or sewer grating? Are they okay in the grass? It is important they are able to at least be encouraged over these items even if unsure.

Noise Sensitivity

We are looking to see how your pup reacts to loud or otherwise unexpected noises. They are allowed to be startled; we are looking to see that they can bounce back quickly. Fear that inhibits their ability to move on is a disqualifier from our program.

Trainability

Here, we are looking to see how trainable your dog is. We will ask you to prompt a cue they already know without a correction. It’s okay if they don’t know any cues yet; we will simply just ask you to get your pup’s attention and note how easily it orients to you.