AAA Litter Police/Narcotics Temperament Test
51 Days Old
11/29/23
Whelped 10/9/23: 2 sable females (Miss Brown & Miss Pink), 2 black & tan females (Miss Green & Miss Yellow), 2 sable males (Mr. Blue & Mr. Purple) & 1 black & tan male (Mr. Orange)
Mr. Orange went to SW Wyoming for Search & Rescue. Miss Green went to Sundance to be a service dog, therapy dog for kids and to compete in nosework. Miss Pink and Mr. Blue went to Colorado to be therapy dogs. Miss Brown went to Pennsylvania to be a pet.
I kept Miss Yellow for nosework competition, therapy dog work and hopefully breeding.
Mr. Purple is available to a working home as a candidate for Search and Rescue and cadaver/forensics work.
See the Search & Rescue Temperament Test Results
My good friend, Suzan Guilford, usually does the police/narcotics test. Suzan is a former K9 handler and police officer, former police chief, and has taught at the Wyoming Police Academy. She has done my temperament tests for thirty years, except for a two-year absence while she was working in Florida. Suzan and I over the years have incorporated most of the SAR exercises into her testing so she can include them in case Bonnie can’t come do the SAR testing.
The main difference I see between the police/narcotics test and the SAR test is the attitude of the tester. In the police test, the tester is very quiet, talking little and using very little body movements. No other people are present and the environment is kept quiet. In the SAR test, the tester (often two do the test together) is somewhat more enthusiastic, uses some verbal praise and body movements to get the pup “up” and gives praise. Other people are sometimes present to watch, though they are asked to be as quiet as possible. This would fit well with the ultimate purpose of the dogs being tested for both types of training. In police work the dog must be able to dig down deep inside himself or herself to find the courage and aggression to confront a criminal and/or to search independently and at great distance from the handler. In SAR the handler is usually closer to the dog and is able to praise and encourage him, especially in extended searches. There is also generally all kinds of activity and distraction at a search scene so the dog must be able to filter out the extraneous activity and focus on her job. Both tests are fascinating to watch as is the difference in the pups’ responses in each test.
My pups are very people-oriented and voice responsive, so they never do as well on the police/narcotic test as on the Search & Rescue test because on this PN test, the handler is deliberately very calm and quiet and doesn’t say much. As usual, Suzan commented that the pups came alive when she gave them the tiniest bit of praise.
I am not specifically breeding for police dog candidates, for which they want high drive and activity level – and pushiness.
Recently Suzan adapted her test and also added an interpretation statement: This test was designed for police dogs and dogs of similar professions. This is a good predictor of a strong, confident dog, but also one that may be more independent and not as willing to work with humans as much as they just want to work. Having scores that are average and minimal in some categories may be just what is needed for the agility, therapy or family dog.
Unlike the Search and Rescue test, this test deliberately uses minimal voice, praise and encouragement by the tester.
Results are listed after the description of each part of the Test. Bridget was the only puppy buyer able to get here to watch the test, which is unusual – usually most buyers come. She is taking a male from this litter for Search & Rescue. My friend Laurie, who is getting one of the females, was unable to come because her husband is having health issues. Since Laurie wants a pup like her Jamboree from the JJ litter, who is not only a service dog for both her and her husband, but also a therapy dog working with children AND a high-drive competition dog – some pretty complex things to look for during the testing – I recruited extra observers to give her a chance for the best pup. I asked Bridget to observe all the pups test with Laurie’s needs in mind, not just for her choice. I also asked Sue, our trainer and the arena owner, to watch and note all her observations.
At the end of this page, test results are listed for Justice (father), Lovely (mother), GloryToo (grandmother), Chaos & Lively (great-grandparents of the litter) and Lively’s mother & grandmother (maternal great-great-grandmother and great-great-great grandmother).
POLICE/NARCOTICS TEST COMPONENTS:
Social Attachment: Acknowledges new person; dominance or independence
Following: Willingness to follow, and acceptance of tester
Confidence/Elevation: Confidence/dominance shown when pup is held in air and has no control
Prey/perseverance: Willingness to chase toy, solidness of bite, use of body to possess
Sound Sensitivity, Can of Bolts: The can of nuts and bolts is dropped from about 2’ elevation, making a sudden loud noise behind them
Sound Sensitivity, Train: a moving, whistling battery-operated train engine is used
Surprise/Stability: an umbrella is opened suddenly as the pup passes by; the tester notes recovery after the initial startle.
AAA Litter Test Results
Social Attachment The first test involves evaluating the pup’s acceptance of the strange place and its willingness to interact with the stranger. Ideal reaction is eye contact and interest in the stranger but no sign of nervousness in the interaction (we don’t want a “Protect me!” attitude), followed by visual investigation of the surroundings and then a return of attention to the tester.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Licked face; tail up; bit at hands, face
Above average (2): Licked hands, tail up
Average – good (3): Came readily, tail up
Minimal (4): Acknowledged tail down
Insufficient (5): Hesitant
Unacceptable (6): Did not acknowledge
Pup/Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Above Average (within 15 seconds)
Brown Female: Excellent (Very sweet!)
Green Female: Above Average
Orange Male: Above Average
Pink Female: Above Average (very nice)
Purple Male: Above Average
Yellow Female: Excellent
Following Willingness to follow handler; acceptance
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Followed tail up, underfoot, bit at feet
Above average (2): Followed tail up, underfoot
Average – good (3): Followed, tail up
Minimal (4): Followed, tail down
Insufficient (5): Followed hesitantly, tail down
Unacceptable (6): Did not follow, went away
Pup/Rating
Blue Male: Above Average
Brown Female: Average-Good
Green Female: Above Average
Orange Male: Above Average
Pink Female: Average-Good
Purple Male: Average-Good
Yellow Female: Above Average; Average-Good
Restraint/Submission The submission test, done for 30 seconds, is designed to give an idea of the pup’s tractability, trust in humans, and willingness to submit to a human’s directives. In the submission test the pup is held firmly on its back for a short period of time. The tester counts the seconds it takes for him to resist, then accept, the restraint. She should not passively accept the restraint, nor should she panic or show avoidance of eye contact. Ideal reaction is to resist, then submit and look the tester in the face. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Settled, struggled, settled with some eye contact
Above average (2): Struggled fiercely, flailed
Average – good (3): Struggled fiercely, bit, flailed
Minimal (4): Struggled, then settled
Insufficient (5): No struggle
Unacceptable (6): No struggle, strained to avoid eye contact
Pup/Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Above Average (eyes at 2-4 seconds; struggled entire time)
Brown Female: Above Average (30 seconds)
Green Female: Excellent
Orange Male: Excellent; Above Average (eyes; remained on back afterwards)
Pink Female: Excellent (eye contact 2-3 seconds)
Purple Male: Minimal (eye contact right away)
Yellow Female: Excellent (eye contact)
Social Dominance Stroking pup until reaction
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Cuddled, licked face
Above average (2): Jumped, pawed
Average – good (3): Jumped, pawed, bit growled
Minimal (4): Squirmed, licked at hands
Insufficient (5): Rolled over, licked hands
Unacceptable (6): Went away and stayed away
Pup/Rating
ALL: Excellent
Confidence/Elevation The confidence part of the test involves holding the pup out at arm’s length for several seconds. Again, the pup should accept the handler putting it in position and remain calm.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Struggled, settled, struggled, settled
Above average (2): Struggled
Average – good (3): Struggled, tried to bite
Minimal (4): No struggle, relaxed
Insufficient (5): No struggle, body still
Unacceptable (6): No struggle, body froze
Pup/Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Above Average (at 12 seconds, then relaxed)
Brown Female: Above Average (at 10 seconds)
Green Female: Minimal
Orange Male: Excellent
Pink Female: Minimal (relaxed entire time!)
Purple Male: Minimal (pretty relaxed)
Yellow Female: Excellent (eye contact at 2-4 seconds)
Retrieve Ball/Toy Next, willingness to retrieve is evaluated using different balls. The tester looks for desire to chase and desire to bring back, noting independence or willingness to work with a human. Ideal reaction is to repeatedly being the toy back to the handler rather than moving off to “possess” it. The type of bite on the toys is evaluated: a full mouth bite shows more confidence and drive than a front-teeth-only bite.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Chased object, picked it up and returned with it
Above average (2): Chased object, picked it up and returned without it
Average – good (3): Chased object, stood over it, did not return
Minimal (4): Chased object, picked it up, ran away
Insufficient (5): Started to chase, lost interest
Unacceptable (6): No chase
Pup/Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Average-Good (6-8 times)
Brown Female: Average-Good (3 times); Minimal (2 times); Insufficient (a few)
Green Female: Minimal (didn’t return – would chase & lie down with it)
Orange Male: Minimal; Insufficient
Pink Female: Excellent (6 X); Above Average (3 X); Average-Good (a few times)
Purple Male: Average-Good (4 times)
Yellow Female: Excellent (3 times); Average-Good (5 X)
Sensitivity The loose skin over the ribs is gently pinched and the pup’s reaction is noted. Ideal reaction is to notice the pinch but be unconcerned by it. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): 8 – 10 count for response
Above average (2): 6 – 8 count for response
Average – good (3): 5 – 6 count for response
Minimal (4): 3 – 5 count for response
Insufficient (5): 2 – 3 count for response
Unacceptable (6): 1 – 2 count for response
Pup/Rating
Blue Male: Average-Good
Brown Female: Above Average
Green Female: Average-Good
Orange Male: Average-Good
Pink Female: Excellent
Purple Male: Average-Good
Yellow Female: Minimal
Prey/Perseverance Strength of desire to chase and attack is evaluated. Perseverance is evaluated by seeing how enthusiastically they will pursue, grab hold, and tug on a rope or sack. They look for chasing, solidness of grip and use of body. Ideal reaction is to pursue enthusiastically, grasp with a full mouth bite, tug and do everything possible to possess the object. If a sack is used, we like to see a pup get its whole body on the sack in an effort to subdue it.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Chased or tugged, full bite, used body on object
Above average (2): Chased, tugged, good bite, used feet.
Average – good (3): Chased, tugged, bit, may release and re-bite, tail up
Minimal (4): Chased, followed object, bit, released, may tug, tail down
Insufficient (5): Chased, may bite with front-teeth bite, lost interest
Unacceptable (6): Little or no chase or engagement
Pup/ Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Minimal (3-4 times then lost interest)
Brown Female: Minimal; Insufficient
Green Female: Insufficient
Orange Male: Above Average (limited chase; better bite)
Pink Female: Above Average (full bite; used body for weight)
Purple Male: Minimal (tail up; not too interested in these); Insufficient (tail up; not too interested in these)
Yellow Female: Minimal (mostly front teeth; tail up most of time)
Sound sensitivity – Can of Bolts A metal can filled with rocks is dropped behind them from a height of about 2 feet while they are looking away from it. Will the pup hold its ground and then go look at what dropped from nowhere? Excellent reaction is to acknowledge and turn towards the sound and then confidently go see what made the racket. The tester encourages the pup to investigate, if it doesn’t on its own. She notes how much encouragement is needed. I find most of my pups look towards the racket and keep on playing with the toy they had, rather than stopping their play to go investigate.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Heard, located sound & ran toward it
Above average (2): Heard, located sound, walked toward it
Average – good (3): Heard, located sound and showed curiosity
Minimal (4): Heard and located sound
Insufficient (5): Cringed, backed off, tried to hide
Unacceptable (6): Ignored sound and showed no curiosity
Pup/ Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Average-Good
Brown Female: Insufficient (didn’t look at it until we moved onto other things)
Green Female: Minimal (saw her reflection in the can of bolts– barked at can)
Orange Male: Average-Good
Pink Female: Minimal (encouraged to come & look)
Purple Male: Average-Good
Yellow Female: Above Average
Sound Sensitivity – Train/Horn A battery operated train engine that moves erratically and whistles was used. Also, a hand-held horn was used. Will the pup hold its ground and then go look at the test object? Excellent reaction is to acknowledge and turn towards the sound and then confidently go see what made the racket. The tester encourages the pup to investigate, if it doesn’t on its own. She notes how much encouragement is needed.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Heard, located sound & ran toward it
Above average (2): Heard, located sound, walked toward it
Average – good (3): Heard, located sound and showed curiosity
Minimal (4): Heard and located sound
Insufficient (5): Cringed, backed off, tried to hide
Unacceptable (6): Ignored sound and showed no curiosity
Pup/ Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Minimal
Brown Female: Minimal (when encouraged)
Green Female: Minimal
Orange Male: Average-Good
Pink Female: Above Average
Purple Male: Minimal
Yellow Female: Average-Good
Surprise/Stability This test involves getting the pup to follow you (or a toy) towards a place with a hidden person, from behind which an umbrella is opened suddenly and then lowered to the ground, still open. The pups are evaluated on how they recover from being startled and if they’ll go investigate. Ideal reaction is for the pup to startle but hold its ground, then move right up to check out the umbrella. A super excellent reaction is to go up and bite it and/or walk all over it. The tester encourages the pup to investigate after the umbrella is on the top step, if it doesn’t on its own. She notes how much encouragement is needed. Suzan had no helper to operate the umbrella so she had to do it herself. The first time (Mr. Purple) that didn’t go well and it opened right at him and he, naturally, left. When she redid it, he did fine. The girls had a much more normal presentation.
Possible Ratings/General Description
Excellent (1): Looked, ran to umbrella, attacked/bit
Above average (2): Looked, walked to umbrella, smelled
Average – good (3): Looked, went to investigate
Minimal (4): Sat and looked, did not investigate
Insufficient (5): Showed little or no interest
Unacceptable (6): Ran away from umbrella
Pup/Rating/Additional Observations
Blue Male: Minimal (investigated when encouraged)
Brown Female: Unacceptable
Green Female: Minimal (then left area)
Orange Male: Unacceptable (ran away, then came back when encouraged)
Pink Female: Unacceptable (came back to look when encouraged; not very curious about it)
Purple Male: Average-Good (encouraged with voice)
Yellow Female: Average-Good (stopped with umbrella; investigated when encouraged)
Tester’s Comments & Sue’s Notes:
Blue Male:
Suzan’s Comments: “Uses nose well. Likes humans.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit when pinched. Tugged a little. Sound – curious to train. Noise – good, went back. Didn’t like being held out. Didn’t like being held down. Good recovery to umbrella. (Rated #2 male)”
Brown Female:
Suzan’s Comments: “Not a strong prey or retrieve. Bite minimal.”
Sue’s notes: “Chased but no retrieve. Picked up tennis ball. Played with polo ball. Curious. Recovers from noise. Didn’t fight when held up. Didn’t like being held down – forgave tester. Did not like umbrella! (Rated #4 female)”
Green Female:
Suzan’s Comments: “Nice nose. Independent with confidence.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit the pinch. Won’t retrieve. Independent – own world. Interested in environment. Went to train. Noise OK. Squirmy. Didn’t fight the hold. Very nice. (Rated #2 female)”
Orange Male:
Suzan’s Comments: “Loves all objects – rubber balls & harder polo balls.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit when pinched. Bit a lot of different toys. Tugged. Went to train. Didn’t care about noise. Slight struggle when held out. Big struggle being held down. Umbrella scared. (Rated #1 male)”
Pink Female:
Suzan’s Comments: “Confident pup with good attitude. Retrieve – would only go a few feet away to pick up ball. Used feet to touch it first.”
Sue’s notes: “Picked up tennis ball & did some retrieves. Liked tug & followed long rope. Recovered from noise. Didn’t fight being held out. Didn’t like being held down, not as squirmy. Recovered from umbrella and went back to umbrella. (Rated #1 female)”
Purple Male:
Suzan’s Comments: “Thought about things before doing anything. Used nose a lot and distracted with smells.”
Sue’s notes: “Played but didn’t retrieve. Didn’t go back to noise. Didn’t really want to tug. Didn’t squirm when being held out. Delayed squirm being held down. Recovered from umbrella. Nosey. (Rated #3 male)”
Yellow Female:
Suzan’s Comments: “Used nose a lot. Easily distracted with smells.”
Sue’s notes: “Whined right away. Didn’t want to retrieve. Liked long rope but didn’t want to tug. OK with noises. Squirmy when being held out. Fought being held down. Recovered from umbrella. Busy. Confident. (Rated #3 female)”
Summary
Note that all pups do not have all six possible rating lines, only the ratings they received are listed. When Suzan marked between two ratings, I listed the higher one.
Pup/ Rating/Tests
Mr. Blue
Excellent: Social dominance
Above Average: Social attachment (within 15 seconds); Following; Restraint/submission (eyes at 2-4 seconds; struggled entire time); Confidence/Elevation (at 12 seconds, then relaxed);
Average-Good: Retrieve ball/toy (6-8 times); Pain Sensitivity; Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts];
Minimal: Prey/Perseverance (3-4 times then lost interest); Sound Sensitivity [train]; Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (investigated when encouraged)
Suzan’s Comments: “Uses nose well. Likes humans.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit when pinched. Tugged a little. Sound – curious to train. Noise – good, went back. Didn’t like being held out. Didn’t like being held down. Good recovery to umbrella. (Rated #2 male)”
Miss Brown
Excellent: Social Attachment; Social Dominance
Above Average: Restraint/Submission (30 seconds); Confidence/Elevation (at 10 seconds); Pain Sensitivity
Average-Good: Following; Retrieve ball/toy (3 times); Prey/Perseverance
Minimal: Retrieve ball/toy (2 times); Prey/Perseverance; Sound Sensitivity [train] (when encouraged);
Insufficient: Retrieve ball/toy (a few); Prey/Perseverance; Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts] (didn’t look at it until we moved onto other things);
Unacceptable: Surprise/Stability [umbrella]
Suzan’s Comments: “Not a strong prey or retrieve. Bite minimal.”
Sue’s notes: “Chased but no retrieve. Picked up tennis ball. Played with polo ball. Curious. Recovers from noise. Didn’t fight when held up. Didn’t like being held down – forgave tester. Did not like umbrella! (Rated #4 female)”
Miss Green
Excellent: Restraint/Submission; Social dominance
Above Average: Social attachment; Following
Average-Good: Pain Sensitivity
Minimal: Retrieve ball/toy (didn’t return – would chase & lie down with it); Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts] (saw her reflection in the can of bolts– barked at can); Sound Sensitivity [train]; Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (then left area)
Insufficient: Prey/Perseverance
Suzan’s Comments: “Nice nose. Independent with confidence.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit the pinch. Won’t retrieve. Independent – own world. Interested in environment. Went to train. Noise OK. Squirmy. Didn’t fight the hold. Very nice. (Rated #2 female)”
Mr. Orange
Excellent: Restraint/Submission; Social Dominance; Confidence/Elevation;
Above Average: Social Attachment; Following; Restraint/Submission (eyes; remained on back afterwards); Prey/Perseverance (limited chase; better bite);
Average-Good: Pain sensitivity; Sound Sensitivity [can of rocks]; Sound Sensitivity [train]
Minimal: Retrieve ball/toy;
Insufficient: Retrieve ball/toy
Unacceptable: Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (ran away, then came back when encouraged)
Suzan’s Comments: “Loves all objects – rubber balls & harder polo balls.”
Sue’s notes: “Bit when pinched. Bit a lot of different toys. Tugged. Went to train. Didn’t care about noise. Slight struggle when held out. Big struggle being held down. Umbrella scared. (Rated #1 male)”
Miss Pink
Excellent: Restraint/Submission (eye contact 2-3 seconds); Social Dominance; Retrieve ball/toy (6 X); Pain Sensitivity;
Above Average: Social Attachment (very nice); Retrieve ball/toy (3 X); Prey/Perseverance (full bite; used body for weight); Sound Sensitivity [train]
Average-Good: Following, Retrieve ball/toy (a few times)
Minimal: Confidence/Elevation (relaxed entire time!); Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts] (encouraged to come & look)
Unacceptable: Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (came back to look when encouraged; not very curious about it)
Suzan’s Comments: “Confident pup with good attitude. Retrieve – would only go a few feet away to pick up ball. Used feet to touch it first.”
Sue’s notes: “Picked up tennis ball & did some retrieves. Liked tug & followed long rope. Recovered from noise. Didn’t fight being held out. Didn’t like being held down, not as squirmy. Recovered from umbrella and went back to umbrella. (Rated #1 female)”
Mr. Purple
Excellent: Social Dominance
Above Average: Social Attachment
Average-Good: Following; Retrieve ball/toy (4 times); Pain Sensitivity; Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts]; Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (encouraged with voice)
Minimal: Restraint/Submission (eye contact right away); Confidence/Elevation (pretty relaxed); Prey/Perseverance (tail up; not too interested in those); Sound Sensitivity [train]
Insufficient: Prey/Perseverance (tail up; not too interested in those)
Suzan’s Comments: “Thought about things before doing anything. Used nose a lot and distracted with smells.”Sue’s notes: “Played but didn’t retrieve. Didn’t go back to noise. Didn’t really want to tug. Didn’t squirm when being held out. Delayed squirm being held down. Recovered from umbrella. Nosey. (Rated #3 male)”
Miss Yellow
Excellent: Social Attachment; Restraint/Submission (eye contact); Social Dominance; Confidence/Elevation (eye contact at 2-4 seconds; Retrieve ball/toy (3 times)
Above Average: Following; Sound Sensitivity [can of bolts]
Average-Good: Following; Retrieve ball/toy (5 times); Sound Sensitivity [train]; Surprise/Stability [umbrella] (stopped with umbrella; investigated when encouraged)
Minimal: Pain Sensitivity; Prey/Perseverance (mostly front teeth; tail up most of time)
Suzan’s Comments: “Used nose a lot. Easily distracted with smells.”
Sue’s notes: “Whined right away. Didn’t want to retrieve. Liked long rope but didn’t want to tug. OK with noises. Squirmy when being held out. Fought being held down. Recovered from umbrella. Busy. Confident. (Rated #3 female)”
Comparison
When Suzan marked two ratings, I listed the higher one.
Social Attachment
Excellent: Brown, Yellow
Above average: Blue, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple
Following
Above average: Blue, Green, Orange, Yellow
Average-Good: Brown, Pink, Purple
Restraint/Submission
Excellent: Green, Orange, Pink, Yellow
Above average: Blue, Brown
Minimal: Purple
Social Dominance
Excellent: ALL
Confidence/Elevation
Excellent: Orange, Yellow
Above average: Blue, Brown
Minimal: Green, Pink, Purple
Retrieve ball/toy
Excellent: Green, Pink, Yellow
Average-good: Blue, Brown, Purple
Minimal: Orange
Pain Sensitivity (pinch)
Excellent: Pink
Above average: Brown
Average-good: Blue, Green, Orange, Purple
Minimal: Yellow
Prey/Perseverance
Above average: Orange, Pink
Minimal: Blue, Brown, Purple, Yellow
Insufficient: Green
Sound sensitivity (can of rocks)
Above average: Yellow
Average-good: Blue, Orange, Purple
Minimal: Green, Pink
Insufficient: Brown
Sound sensitivity (train & horn)
Average-good: Orange, Yellow
Minimal: Blue, Brown, Green, Pink, Purple
Surprise/Stability (umbrella)
Average-good: Purple, Yellow
Minimal: Blue, Green
Unacceptable: Brown, Orange, Pink
For interest, I include the puppies’ father’s, mother’s, maternal grandparent’s and maternal great-grandparent’s temperament test results below. All of the tests on the females were done by Suzan, former police K9 handler, except for Lively’s & Quinta’s SAR tests, done by Janet Wilts.
Justice was tested in Bozeman while still at his breeder’s. We couldn’t do the Police/Narcotics test, but Bonnie, my current SAR tester, tested him for me before I decided to buy him.
Justice’s Search & Rescue Test (father of this litter)
He was tested at 69 Days
On Monday, August 9th, 2021, I decided it was time to start the search for a male pup who would grow up to be my new stud dog, especially for Cantor daughters and granddaughters. The search usually takes months, so I was amazed the next day to get an email from Clarissa Negaard in Belgrade, MT, whose dog Toby I tried to breed Mercy to in June (and failed). Toby was the sire of Spirit’s first litter (the MM litter). Clarissa told me that she had a litter by Toby, continuing two males, that was 9 weeks old.
My Search & Rescue tester (Bonnie) lives very close to Clarissa and agreed to test the two males. Thursday night she tested the two males in the litter. I was really wanting a sable this time around. The sable male tested exceptionally well, and after a lengthy phone conversation with Bonnie, I decided to take him.
From how my testers have rated litters over the years, the test sheet has the following possible boxes they can check: 10, 10-9, 9.5, 9, 9-8, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 through 1. And they sometimes rate something a 10+. I did not include the tests Bonnie was unable to do since she had no helper.
Acceptance/Attachment The first test involves evaluating the pup’s acceptance of the strange place and its willingness to interact with the stranger. Ideal reaction is eye contact and interest in the stranger but no sign of nervousness in the interaction (we don’t want a “Protect me!” attitude), followed by visual investigation of the surroundings and then a return of attention to the tester.
Rating: 10-9
Comments: This was one of the first times he was placed with a new person all by himself. He adapted well after initial upset.
Eye Contact Desire to connect with the tester by looking them in the eye was noted.
Rating: 9
Comments: Not initially
Confidence The confidence part of the test involves holding the pup out at arm’s length for several seconds. Again, the pup should accept the handler putting it in position and remain calm.
Rating: 8
Comments: Struggled; didn’t like it
Independence How comfortable is the pup, will it work away from the tester or does it stay underfoot? Or does it avoid dealing with the tester by staying away and playing on its own.
Rating: 10+ to 9
Comments: Quickly adapted and went off exploring. Went to look for me when I was doing the second dog.
Pain Sensitivity The loose skin over the ribs is gently pinched and the pup’s reaction is noted. Ideal reaction is to notice the pinch but be unconcerned by it. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Rating: 10-9
Retrieve Next, willingness to retrieve is evaluated using different toys and balls. Ideal reaction is to repeatedly being the toy back to the handler rather than moving off to “possess” it. The type of bite on the toys is evaluated: a full mouth bite shows more confidence and drive than a front-teeth-only bite.
Rating: 5
Comments: New game – didn’t know it. Did pick it up for a second. (Hadn’t seen ball/toys before)
Metal Object Tester tosses a set of car keys and observes to see if pup will put its mouth on it, pick it up and/or retrieve it.
Rating: 5
Comments: checked out – no interest
Perseverance (Chase) Then perseverance is evaluated by seeing how enthusiastically they will pursue and grab hold of an object. Ideal reaction is to pursue enthusiastically and grasp with a full mouth bite.
Rating: 10++
Comments: extremely persistent
Tug Ideal reaction is a full mouth bite, tug and do everything possible to possess the object. We like to see a pup get its whole body on the sack/rope/toy in an effort to subdue it.
Rating: 10-9
Comments: Seemed like a new game but he will do very well.
Prey Drive Strength of desire to chase and attack is evaluated.
Rating: 10
Hunt for Toy While playing with ball or soft toy, hide it and encourage pup to use nose to find. Interest? How long will pup search? Uses nose or eyes? Two agility barrels were set on their sides to form tunnels in line with each other, separated by cushions. When thrown through tunnel, will the pup go through after the toy?
Rating: none
Comments: Not real interested in the toys for more than a few minutes.
Unstable Footing Since SAR dogs will search in all kinds of terrain and areas of destruction, they must be confident in insecure situations. Bonnie spread out of various objects (piles of boards, etc.) that made a rough, unsteady surface. Toys were thrown or drug over the unstable area.
Rating: 10
Comments: No concern on anything – explored all over on his own.
Submission The submission test is designed to give an idea of the pup’s tractability, trust in humans, and willingness to submit to a human’s directives. In the submission test the pup is held firmly on its back for a short period of time. The tester counts the seconds it takes for him to resist, then accept, the restraint. She should not passively accept the restraint, nor should she panic or show avoidance of eye contact. Ideal reaction is to resist, then submit and look the tester in the face. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Rating: 7
Comments: Never accepted. Fought throughout.
Reaction to Strange Objects Test was conducted in Bonnie’s husband’s shop, with all kinds of things Justice had never seen.
Rating: 10
Comments: Everything here was new to his world. He knocked things over with no concerns.
Cadaver Test A jar containing human cadaver material was placed on the floor where the pup would pass it. Its reaction and interest or lack of interest were noted.
Rating: 10
Comments: Very interested. Used his nose to find it.
Courage Test Courage is normally evaluated using something that vibrates, makes noise and moves erratically. Bonnie didn’t say if she used anything in particular.
Rating: 10-9
Comments: Nothing seemed to concern him, even knocking things over.
Fear A metal can filled with metal items (hinges, bolts, etc.) is dropped behind them from a height of about 2 feet while they are looking away from it.
Rating: 10
Comments: No reaction
Hunt for Food I This test begins with a hot dog tied on a string and dragged to attract the pup’s interest and see how interested it is, how hard it will work to get it, and how hard it will work to keep it as the tester jerks, tugs and generally prevents the pup from easily eating it. They also hold it high to see if the pup will look up to search for it.
Rating: 10
Comments: Latched right on and never gave up!
Hunt for Food II Bonnie hid treats under a tarp. The pups had to use their noses to find where the treats were. They were judged on how they how they used their noses and how systematic their searching was.
Rating: 10++
Comments: Unbelievable persistence! (see video with the hot dog on the table). I left him alone for 1 minute to get the cadaver and he never stopped hunting on his own.
Puppy Drag Something is drug so that it moves enticingly as the tester moves around, so the pups focus on biting and tugging on them instead of me.
Rating: 10
Comments: First time ever (seeing something like it) & he hopped right on, biting and holding.
General Comments: When first left alone with me in a strange place he showed near panic – jumping on me & vocalizing while trying to escape. Within 2-3 minutes he settled in and began to explore and interact. He showed happy independence, nice people reaction/interaction, nice prey drive & very strong, persistent hunt drive. EXCELLENT working prospect! Very nice pup! Quite the persistent little hunter, very impressive! He’s a very busy fellow with nice drives. He’s behind on a few things (retrieve, manners – lots of jumping) but I really like him and would highly consider him for a working dog for myself. It’s a bit frustrating to see where he could be right now if she would do more with them as they develop. I think he’s at a good bonding period. He latched into me pretty quick. He’s not super dark – very nice markings, very handsome. I really like this pup, Cel. I’m excited already to think of his potential with your girls. He will be a handful, though!
*****
Lovely’s Police Dog/Narcotics Dog Temperament Test 2016 (mother of this litter)
The LL Litter was tested at 52 Days
My good friend, Suzan Guilford, came to do the police/narcotics test. She is a former K9 handler and police officer, former police chief, and has taught at the Wyoming Police Academy. She has done my temperament tests for over twenty years, except for a two-year absence while she was working in Florida.
Suzan and I over the years have incorporated most of the SAR exercises into her testing, in case Janet & Bonnie can’t come do the SAR testing, which was the case with this litter.
The main difference I see between the police/narcotics test and the SAR test is the attitude of the tester. In the police test, the tester is very quiet, talking little and using very little body movements. No other people are present and the environment is kept quiet. In the SAR test, the tester (often two do the test together) is somewhat more enthusiastic, uses some verbal praise and body movements to get the pup “up” and gives praise.
Other people are sometimes present to watch, though they are asked to be as quiet as possible. This would fit well with the ultimate purpose of the dogs being tested for both types of training. In police work the dog must be able to dig down deep inside himself or herself to find the courage and aggression to confront a criminal and/or to search independently and at great distance from the handler. In SAR the handler is usually closer to the dog and is able to praise and encourage him, especially in extended searches. There is also generally all kinds of activity and distraction at a search scene so the dog must be able to filter out the extraneous activity and focus on her job. Both tests are fascinating to watch as is the difference in the pups’ responses in each test.
Results are listed after the description of each part of the Test. At the bottom, test results are listed for GloryToo (Lovely’s mother), Lively (Lovely’s grandmother) and Lively’s mother & grandmother (Lovely’s maternal great-grandmother and great-great grandmother), as well as Chaos (Lovely’s grandfather). Lovely’s sire, Quasi, was bought as an adult and his breeder hadn’t done any puppy testing.
Police/Narcotics Tests
Acceptance/Attachment The first test involves evaluating the pup’s acceptance of the strange place and its willingness to interact with the stranger. Ideal reaction is eye contact and interest in the stranger but no sign of nervousness in the interaction (we don’t want a “Protect me!” attitude), followed by visual investigation of the surroundings and then a return of attention to the tester.
Rating – Comments
Average
“10 seconds before recognition”
Pain Sensitivity The loose skin over the ribs is gently pinched and the pup’s reaction is noted. Ideal reaction is to notice the pinch but be unconcerned by it. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Rating – Comments
Excellent
“Good”
Retrieve Next, willingness to retrieve is evaluated using different toys: a stuffed toy, and a tennis ball. Ideal reaction is to repeatedly being the toy back to the handler rather than moving off to “possess” it. The type of bite on the toys is evaluated: a full mouth bite shows more confidence and drive than a front-teeth-only bite.
Rating – Comments
Average
“Lots of prey”
Perseverance Then perseverance is evaluated by seeing how enthusiastically they will pursue, grab hold, and tug on a rope sack. Ideal reaction is to pursue enthusiastically, grasp with a full mouth bite, tug and do everything possible to possess the object. If a sack is used, we like to see a pup get its whole body on the sack in an effort to subdue it.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“Pretty good; nice bite”
Fear A metal can filled with metal items (horseshoes, nails, bolts, etc.) is dropped behind them from a height of about 2 feet while they are looking away from it. Will the pup hold its ground and then go look at what dropped from nowhere? Excellent reaction is to acknowledge and turn towards the sound and then confidently go see what made the racket. The tester encourages the pup to investigate, if it doesn’t on its own. She notes how much encouragement is needed. I find most of my pups look towards the racket and keep on playing with the toy they had, rather than stopping their play to go investigate.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“Nice – came around and put head in bucket”
Courage and Aggression Courage and aggression is evaluated using an electric train that when turned on moves erratically, whistles loudly, clanks, etc. Will they stand their ground? Will they go investigate it? Excellent reaction is to go to the moving, clanking train and check it out. Extremely excellent reaction is to actually attack it while it moves. Good reaction is to investigate it after the tester turns it off. The tester encourages the pup to investigate after it is turned off, if it wouldn’t while it was “whistling” and moving. She notes how much encouragement is needed.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“Good – after it was off, sniffed up & down”
Surprise The last test involves getting the pup to chase you (or a toy) towards a place with a hidden person, from behind which an umbrella is opened suddenly and then lowered to the ground, still open. The pups are evaluated on how they recover from being startled and if they’ll go investigate. Ideal reaction is for the pup to startle but hold its ground, then move right up to check out the umbrella. A super excellent reaction is to go up and bite it and/or walk all over it. The tester encourages the pup to investigate after the umbrella is on the top step, if it doesn’t on its own. She notes how much encouragement is needed.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“OK – stopped then circled around and left”
Search And Rescue Tests
Submission The submission test is designed to give an idea of the pup’s tractability, trust in humans, and willingness to submit to a human’s directives. In the submission test the pup is held firmly on its back for a short period of time. The tester counts the seconds it takes for him to resist, then accept, the restraint. She should not passively accept the restraint, nor should she panic or show avoidance of eye contact. Ideal reaction is to resist, then submit and look the tester in the face. We also look for a willingness to forgive the tester.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“Good – 12 seconds before looked at me”
Confidence The confidence part of the test involves holding the pup out at arm’s length for several seconds. Again, the pup should accept the handler putting it in position and remain calm.
Rating – Comments
Above average
“20 seconds”
Unstable Footing Since SAR dogs will search in all kinds of terrain and areas of destruction, they must be confident in insecure situations. We used a tarp, packing paper and some big sheets of bubble wrap.
Rating – Comments
Excellent
“Very good”
Cadaver A jar with human cadaver scent was opened and placed a distance away. Pups were drawn to the general area by dragging a rope toy that they pursued, then the tester stood quietly and noted if their noses led them to the scent and whether they liked it or not.
Rating – Comments
Excellent
“Nice – licked & tried opening jar”
Wildlife Scat One of these pups was to go to a biologist to help with research projects by locating bat nests and wolverine lairs. Bird nests were suggested for the test since bat and wolverine scent wasn’t available. Two buckets with lids but having holes in the sides, each containing a bird’s nest, were placed about 10′. Pups were drawn to the general area by dragging a rope toy that they pursued, then the tester stood quietly and gave them time to investigate if they desired. If a pup didn’t notice the nest, Suzan opened the lid and tapped on the bucket.
Rating – Comments
Minimal
“Not too interested”
Hunt for Food I This test begins with a piece of jerky tied on a string and dragged to attract the pup’s interest and see how interested it is, how hard it will work to get it, and how hard it will work to keep it as the tester jerks, tugs and generally prevents the pup from easily eating it. She then entices the pup to follow it to the area where she has hidden food (test 2).
Rating – Comments
Above average
“Good chase of food”
Hunt for Food II Suzan hid treats in the middle of the room. The pups had to use their noses to find where the treats were. They were judged on how they followed her direction for where to search and how systematic their searching was.
Rating – Comments
Excellent
“Nice & methodical; used both eyes & nose”
Summary
Excellent: Sensitivity, Cadaver, Unstable Footing, Hunt for Food II
Above average: Confidence, Perseverance, Fear, Aggression & Courage, Surprise, Submission, Hunt for Food I
Average: Attachment, Retrieve ball, Retrieve toy
Minimal: Wildlife scat
GloryToo’s Temperament Test 2013 (Grandmother of this litter)
The GG Litter was tested at 50 Days.
Janet & Bonnie were unable to come test the GG litter so I only have Suzan’s police/narcotics test results (and the few SAR tests she does in this instance) for GloryToo.
Test – Rating – Comments
Acceptance/Attachment: Excellent; “Very nice, acknowledged & then wanted to get down.”
Pain Sensitivity: Excellent; “Good reaction: wagged tail, licked hand”
Retrieve: Average on ball; minimal on toy; “OK. Once she got into it, was good. Not much interest in toys.”
Perseverance: Above Average; “Good. Not a full bite but liked the prey aspect.”
Fear (can of bolts): Above Average; “Good. Investigated when encouraged to.”
Courage and Aggression (electric train): Average; “Kept a distance from train but came & looked at it.”
Surprise: Minimal; “Ran away & then returned when verbally encouraged.”
Submission: Excellent; “Good eye contact right away & wanted up.”
Confidence: Excellent; “Nice – no problem”
Unstable Footing: Excellent
Hunt for Food I: Above Average; “Good. Systematic.”
Hunt for Food II: Above Average; “Very Good. Used nose – willing to work with handler.”
Tester Comments: Nice girl overall – very social & sound – Happy!
Chaos’ Temperament Tests, 2006
(GloryToo’s father; maternal great-grandfather of this litter)
Chaos’ breeder did not do a formal temperament test, so Suzan did the police/narcotics test when he arrived.
He was 8 weeks old.
Attachment: Above Average; “Nice! No problem with adjustment.”
Sensitivity: Excellent
Retrieve: Average; “Somewhat interested in other things as well. Easily encouraged.”
Perseverance: Average; “Very nice. Looked at other objects.”
Fear: Excellent; “Looked at can, then went about business.”
Aggression & Courage: Excellent; “Did everything but pick it up. (toy used was an electric train that when turned on moved erratically, whistled loudly, clanked, etc.)
Surprise: Above Average; “Not fair test but no problem. Looked at umbrella and investigated person.”
Submission: Above Average; “5 seconds. Was squirming. Made eye contact once.”
Hunt for Toy: Above Average; “Pretty good. Couldn’t decide which toy he liked better.”
Hunt for Food: Above Average; “Very good. Fairly systematic.”
Tester Comments: Nice pup – very solid and courageous. Has a good bite, full mouthed with toys and pull toy. Nice reaction to train and umbrella. Gets along with other dogs well (met her dogs afterwards). Good nose – found food easily and liked looking for it, followed direction of handler. Nicely encouraged. Great little boy!
Lively’s Temperament Tests 2010
(GloryToo’s mother; maternal great-grandmother of this litter)
Search And Rescue Test by Janet Wilts, done at 52 & 53 days of age (10 is top score)
SAR & Schutzhund prospect
Day/Rating/Comments
Saturday: 9 – 10; “Confident, good prey”
Sunday: 10; “ Good nose, good eye contact, good prey, good tug”
Lively’s Police Dog/Narcotics Dog Temperament Test, done at 54 days
Since Janet can seldom come to test my pups, Suzan and I over the years have incorporated most of the SAR exercises into our testing. This was especially nice this time because Janet was unable to do her regular tests due to the weather.
Test/Rating/Comments
Acceptance/Attachment: Excellent; “Great. Ran up, licked & nipped at my face.”
Pain Sensitivity: Excellent; “Excellent!!”
Retrieve: Above Average; “Lots of chase – no bringing.”
Perseverance: Excellent; “LOTS of prey, good speed.”
Courage and Aggression: Above Average; “Good!! “
Fear: Above Average; “Good – didn’t investigate.”
Surprise: Above Average; “OK – looked and stopped.”
Lively’s Search And Rescue Test
Test/Rating/Comments
Submission & Confidence: Above Average; “Good – no eye contact right away.”
Unstable Footing: Excellent
Hunt for Toy: Above Average; “Stayed with specific toy for a long time.”
Hunt for Food: Excellent; “Great. Not intimidated, willing to go the distance.”
Tester Comments: Full of “Reckless Abandonment.” Fantastic. Good full mouth bite. Drug on blanket (perseverance test). Cel’s note: What Suzan is referring to is that she had her whole body on the blanket and stayed there while Suzan drug her all around.)
Summary
Rating/Tests
Excellent: Sensitivity, Perseverance, Hunt for Food, Attachment
Above Average: Submission, Aggression/Courage, Retrieve, Fear, Hunt for Toy, Surprise
Quinta’s Temperament Tests 2004
(Lively’s mother; maternal great-great-grandmother of this litter)
The Q Litter was tested on October 30th & 31st, when they were 46 & 47 days old. Results are listed after the description of each part of the Test. An extensive Search & Rescue test was done on the 30th, with some retesting on the 31st after the police/narcotics test, if the SAR tester (Janet) hadn’t been satisfied with the pup’s reactions the day before. For the SAR test, we took the pups to a rural schoolyard which had a very large grassy field. Heavy rain the day before made the field too soggy for the entire test, so most of the exercises were done in the playground area which is deep in wood chips. The chips proved to be way too highly tempting to the pups and Janet had to clear their mouths often to get them to go after the toys rather than the chips. Results are listed after the description of each part of the Test. You will note that some exercises are done in both tests and other exercises are unique to one test or the other. Janet was the primary tester, with Kelly, another SAR person, adding her ratings on some tests. A table with scores from every phase of the test is listed after the test explanation. Pups’ reactions are rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being excellent.
Temperament Test 1: the Search & Rescue test
Tug, Prey Drive, Chase, Retrieve Drive, Bite The first series of tests involve the pup’s desire to play, chase the toy, how well the pup bites and hold the toy when he or she gets it, and whether the pup will bring it back to the tester.
Tug
Janet: 10+, “Really grips.”
Kelly: 10
Prey
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Retrieve
Janet: 5
Kelly: 6
Bite:
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Chase:
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Strange Noise, Unstable Surface The pups are exposed to both a strange, potentially scary noise and an unstable surface. In this particular test we used a plastic tarp draped over a camp chair. Janet also invented some additional tests by asking the pups to negotiate a metal grating on the playground equipment, to climb a series of wood sections that ended with a widow and a 6’ drop to the ground. Janet tested the pups’ trust by handing them down to a helper and noting their reactions.
Unstable Surface
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Noise
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Hunt for Food and Hunt for Toys The pups are tested to determine their desire to find the toy when it’s hidden, and to find food. The toy was hidden under the tarp and the pup encouraged to look for it. A piece of bacon on a string was drug and bounced past the pups to test their desire to use their noses when they couldn’t see the bacon. Janet took off fast with the bacon drag and ran way out into the field behind the school. Quinta was one of only three pups that noticed this first run; Janet had to repeat it twice more to give all pups a chance to be tested. It is fascinating to see those little noses go to the ground and guide the galloping pups after Janet when she outruns them.
Hunt for Food
Janet: 10
Hunt for Toy
Janet: no
Submission, Forgiveness, Socialability The pups are graded on their desire to interact with and play with the tester. For the submission test, each pup was placed on its back and held down firmly for about 10 seconds. Desirable reaction includes struggle followed by acceptance. Undesirable reactions include total passivity or frantic struggle with refusal to “give” to the human, or trying to bite. The pup is judged afterwards on its willingness to forgive the tester for the submission test. The pup is also held in the air at arm’s length to judge its confidence in being unsupported.
Submission
Janet: 8
Kelly: 8
Forgiveness
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Socialability
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Trust
Janet: 10
Kelly: 10
Confidence Janet also invented some additional tests by asking the pups to negotiate a metal grating on the playground equipment, to climb a series of wood sections that ended with a widow and a 6’ drop to the ground. Janet then further tested the pups’ trust and confidence by handing them down to a helper and noting their reactions.
Temperament Test 2: The police dog/narcotics dog test
Saturday had been a beautiful day, but Sunday brought a storm with wind and rain mixed with snow. We had to do the test in a large unheated garage. The police test is quite different from the Search & Rescue Test. The main difference I noticed in the SAR test was that the testers played with the pups at the same time, and evaluated them for all of the above as they played with them. They were also much more physically active and used excited voices and clapping to encourage the pups, while the tester in the police test is very calm and low key, asking the pups to draw the excitement forth from within themselves. Another difference was that other people stood around just feet from and in full view of each pup as it was tested. In the police test only the tester is within sight or scent of the pup during the testing and everyone was required to be very quiet.
Suzan was the main tester, with Janet hiding to open the umbrella on the surprise test. Janet also gave ratings on some of the test.
Test/ Rating/Comments
Acceptance/Attachment
Suzan: Excellent
Janet: 8
Pain Sensitivity
Suzan: Excellent
Retrieve
Suzan: High Average
Janet: 5
Unstable Surfaces
Suzan: Excellent
Janet: 10
Perseverance
Suzan: Excellent
Janet: Tug 10; prey 10
Courage and Aggression
Suzan: Above Average
Janet: 10
Fear
Suzan: Excellent
Janet: 10
Surprise
Suzan: Excellent
Janet: 10
Submission
Suzan: Above Average
Forgiveness
Suzan: Above Average
Janet: Medium
Social
Suzan: Above Average
Janet: 8
Tester Comments: Very nice, independent pup. For the most part, full bites & lots of interest. Puts full body into what she is doing. Very curious and friendly.
Jubilee’s Temperament Test 1998
(Quinta’s mother; maternal great-great-great-grandmother of this litter)
Jubilee was tested at 52 days
This was Suzan’s straight police/narcotics test, before Janet’s Search & Rescue influence caused us to incorporate more items into our test.
Test/Rating/Comments
Attachment: Excellent; “Had no problem following another person.”
Sensitivity: Excellent; “High pain tolerance – came back to handler.”
Retrieve: Above Average; “No retrieve – did not bring back.”
Perseverance: Above Average; “Chased everything.”
Fear: Excellent; “No reaction – turned and looked into can.”
Aggression & Courage: Above Average; “Stood over and sniffed.”
Surprise: Excellent; “Stopped. Barked. Looked at umbrella.”
See the Search & Rescue Temperament Test Results
to the AAA litter’s page