What is Temperament?

admin | 09 February 2012

I regularly talk to my clients about temperament it is foremost in choosing a dog. I hear so often my dog is really great but it is afraid of strangers and just needs to be socialized. Sometimes this is the case but more often than not, the dog does not have a sound temperament.

Temperament is genetics, it is a collection of drives, nerves, thresholds and instincts that are inherited and innate. Temperament is not something that can be developed it is what the dog is born with and is a product of its genetics. The core of a dog’s temperament will never change, although sometimes behaviors can be modified by behavior/training techniques if there is movement in the temperament. For example let’s consider a dog that has high prey drive and is ball crazy. With training you can teach the dog to control its drive but you cannot take a high energy, high prey drive dog and make it a low energy, low prey drive dog. Trainers can use the drive to redirect and build obedience but the drive has to be there. Just as you cannot take a dog that has very low prey drive and no interest in the ball and make it into a ball crazy dog, if the temperament is not there you can not build or develop it.

A dog with a sound stable temperament will always be a dog with a good temperament regardless of the lousy environment in which it might be raised. Just as unstable or unsound temperament will not change regardless of the fabulous environment in which it is raised. Temperament is not the dog’s personality. Personality is developed by interaction with other living creatures usually humans. Proper and early socialization will build and develop the traits that are already there and may progress a weaker temperament to the level it is capable.

Determining a dog’s temperament is not specific to the breed, it all depends on the genetics. The breed of a dog can give us some indication of the possibility of the temperament, but it all goes back to the genetics. An example is a Lab, often chosen as a family dog, because the breed is known to be good with people, other animals, have an easy going loving nature, responsive and easy to train. I have also seen Lab’s that are aggressive, full of anxieties, and dominant this is genetics and not what is expected but shows how poor breeding can produce lousy dogs.

I understand the need to want to fix every dog, but I also know this is not always possible. Everything begins with temperament, sure a good trainer/behaviorist can develop, train and fix some behavior issues, but only if the temperament allows it.

Always choose a dog based on its temperament, a solid stable dogs behavior will be predictable, responsive, easier to train and a well mannered pet with the proper training, socialization and environment.

Jasper – Therapy Dog

admin | 31 January 2012

Jasper has been doing pet visits for over 6 years at a retirement home close to where we live. We have made many friends over the years who have often shared their stories of their own beloved pets. Jasper’s calm friendly demeanor has brought, joy, comfort and amusement to many of the residents. Jasper loves going on these visits and feels very comfortable with the friends he has made. One of Jasper’s major accomplishments is one lady who is terrified of dogs, especially German Sheperd’s as she was bitten as a child. Although it has only happened twice she actually allowed herself to pat Jasper, a remarkable accomplishment when you consider how fearful she is. There are times the same woman cannot even come into the lobby when we visit as she is so fearful. Jasper is so calm and gentle I have seen quite a few people petrified of dogs eventually come around with Jasper.

Today will be our 2nd last visit where I will have to inform the residents of Jasper’s health issues and that he won’t be able to continue visiting them. I know it won’t be easy, they love Jasper and look forward to seeing him every week. It breaks my heart because I know Jasper loves going there too and he will be missed. Today will begin a sad farewell.

I love you my sweet boy, my heart…….

The Relationship

admin | 19 January 2012

The foundation between every dog and its owner is the relationship. This needs to be solid and built on trust and respect. Consistency is particularly important as it clearly lets your canine friend know its boundaries and your expectations. Define your expectations with respect and fairness and your dog will respond. Always teach your dog with rewards and positive reinforcement. Play and food are great rewards when teaching your dog commands. Your dog needs to trust you, you are in charge and it is your job to keep your dog safe from harm. Establishing leadership gives your dog stability, reduces anxieties and stress. You need to be calm yet assertive when working with your dog, frustration and anger should never be involved in training your dog.

Most owners consider their dogs as part of their family and just like any member the dog needs to know how to behave. A well mannered dog is one that owners can take with them to many places giving fulfillment to both owner and canine. Dogs require structure and predictability in their lives. Having boundaries and teaching expectations gives your dog stability and reduces stress and anxieties. Consistency in the way you handle and communicate with your canine builds respect and trust with your dog. The timing of your reward/correction teaches your dog clearly your expectations. Rewards motivate your dog and should be freely used in the teaching stage. Just like children dogs need to be taught to behave, training your dog is a responsible part of dog ownership. Having realistic expectations is important as often I have seen owners expect behavior from their dog that they have yet to teach them, this is unfair and creates stress for the dog.

Dogs need exercise, good quality food, play, affection and training. The efforts you put into your dog, will come back to you tenfold. Building a strong, solid foundation is the beginning of your bond and relationship and from where all training must start!