Meet the Parents

The scores are interpreted as follows:

Mostly 1’s – Strong desire to be the pack leader and is not shy about challenging its owner or other animals. Has a predisposition to be aggressive to people and other dogs and will bite. Should only be placed in a very experienced home where the dog will be trained and worked regularly.

Mostly 2’s – Also has leadership aspirations. It may be hard to manage and can bite. Should not be placed in an inexperienced home. Needs a strict schedule, loads of exercise, and lots of training. Has the potential to be a great show or working dog if trained by someone who understands animal behavior.

Steer away from the puppy with a lot of 1’s or 2’s. It has many leadership aspirations and may be difficult to manage. This puppy needs a very experienced home. It is likely not good with children.

Mostly 3’s—This is a great dog for a second-time dog owner. It can be a higher-energy dog and may need more exercise or mental stimulation, but it learns quickly and does very well with training. It is generally very good with people and other animals.

Mostly 4’s—This is the best choice for the first-time dog owner. It is easy to train and is usually the star of obedience class. It is good with elderly people and children, although it may be sensitive and need protection from young or rowdy children.

A puppy with mainly 3’s and 4’s is the best choice for service or therapy work.

Mostly 5’s—Fearful, shy, and needs special handling. It needs a very special home where the environment doesn’t change too much, and there are no children. It is best for a quiet, elderly couple. If cornered and cannot get away, it may bite.