Lakeview Veterinary Clinic Lakeview Veterinary Clinic PresentsPresents

Dr Raymond J Ramirez DVM 1986 graduate of the University of Illinois College of

Veterinary Medicine Worked in Animal ER in Chicagoland Worked at over 100 different clinics doing fill in work in

Wisconsin and Illinois Current owner of Lakeview Veterinary Clinic, across the

street from Par-A-Dice

Dog Breed SelectionDog Breed SelectionIf Peter Piper, instead of picking

pickled peppers, had to pick a puppy for Peppermint Patty, what breed of

puppy would Peter Piper pick? Would he pick the same puppy for his

parents?

Introduction Introduction Dog breeds have definite temperament

/personalities that will make a good or bad fit for a family.

You will learn what questions to ask yourself and family before looking for a specific breed.

How many looking for puppy? Adult dog? For self ? Friend ? Do they want that dog?

In relation to the 156 registered In relation to the 156 registered AKC breedsAKC breedsThey all have distinct ‘temperament

characteristics’ that influence how well they fit into the family: Reactivity Trainability Aggression Social

Physical characteristicsPhysical characteristics

Coat Quality: Shedding grooming – how much time

Height Weight Bulkiness

Height

Bulkiness

Pup-adult

CoatSocial

Weight

Trainability

AggressionReact

ivity

ReactivityReactivityActivity level – in or outdoors – yours and

dogs– Always on the go “restless” or 50/50 or “lazy”

Vigor– Always with great force regardless of situation

another name might be boisterous.

How Hyper of a dog do I want?How Hyper of a dog do I want?Do I like getting dog kisses?I am outside more than inside.I am home

– 4-7 hours / day– 1-3 hours / day– Sometimes several days in a row I am not

home

TrainabilityTrainability

Learning rateObedienceProblem solving

– Open doors, dig out of fence…

How trainable or lazy do I want How trainable or lazy do I want the dog?the dog?How many tricks would I like my dog to

be able to learn? 1-5, 6-10, more than 20

Do I want a dog that obeys my command within seconds, or maybe 3 minutes later?

Do I want a dog that sees an obstacle and sits perplexed?

AggressionAggression

DominanceTerritoriality Watch/Guard dog“Emotional” stability

The headstrong dog?The headstrong dog?Am I very familiar with dog behavior to be

able to handle a dog that wants to dominate the ‘pack’

Can I train a fearful dog that is so afraid it will bite someone?

Over 800,000 bites needing hospital attention in US

Barks at every thing, but not going to attack/ or a dog that will ‘back up the bark’

SocialSocial

Dogs can find very easy friends and go to anyone who shows a treat

Dog shows limited interest in strangers – very attached to you

Dog is aloof even to owner – described like a cat that does not socialize or play.

How outgoing of a dog?How outgoing of a dog?I want a dog that never meets a stranger.I want a dog that is responsive to my

activity and moods.I like a dog that enjoys a lot of people.I would like my dog to be around when we

have company at our home. Solitary dogs: Chihuahua, Pekingese, Pomeranian Moderate: English Bulldog, Standard Poodle, German SH pointer Very Social: Golden Retriever, Newfoundland, Bichon Frise

BulkinessBulkiness

This is height of dog and weight – Whippet vs bulldog

Greyhound vs Mastiff

Questions to ask about sizeQuestions to ask about size

True/ false

– I want a big dog.

– I do not care how much it will cost to feed a dog.

– I am physically capable of walking a strong dog.

– I live in a place with enough space for a large dog.

– I am most interested in the “bulkier” breeds of dogs.

Coat quality/ groomingCoat quality/ grooming

Groomed or notShort or long hair Brushing coat

Questions to ask about coatQuestions to ask about coat

Can I afford to have the dog groomed every 6 weeks?

Do I want to spend 15 – 30 minutes a day brushing the dog?

Is it easier for me to sweep short hair or big fur balls? – long /short hair

DVM breed preferencesDVM breed preferences

Golden Retriever Bouvier de Flandre Portugese Water Dog Shih tzu Pugs French bulldog Schnauzers

Cavalier king charles spaniel

Boxer Miniature poodles Boston Terriers. Beagle Sheltie English setter

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, Aggression Aggression Reactivity - High Trainability - Low Aggression –

medium Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

Lhasa apsoPomeranianMalteseCocker spanielBoston terrier

PekingeseBeagleYorkshireWeimeranerPugIrish setterBoxer

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - Low Trainability - Low Aggression – Low Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

English bulldogOld english sheepdogNorwegian elkhoundBloodhoundBasset hound

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - Low Trainability - Low Aggression – High Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

SamoyedMalamuteHuskySt Bernard

Afghan houndDalmatianGreat daneChow chow

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - High Trainability - High Aggression –

medium Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

Shetland sheepdogShih TzuPoodle-minPoodle-toyPoodle-standard

Bichon friseEnglish springerWelsh corgi

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - Low Trainability - High Aggression – Low Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

Lab retrieverViszlaBrittanyShort hair pointerNewfoundland

KeshoundCollieGolden retrieverAustralian shepherd

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - Low Trainability - Very

High Aggression – Very

High Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

German shepherdAkitaDoberman pinscherRottwieller

Chesapeake bay retriever

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cluster of breeds based on Cluster of breeds based on Reactivity, Trainability, Reactivity, Trainability, AggressionAggression Reactivity - High Trainability -

Medium Aggression – Very

High Note: some individuals may be

exceptions to the rule.

Cairn terrierWest highland white terrierChihuahua

Fox terrierScottish terrierDachshundSchnauzer, minSilky terrierAirdale

From JAVMA June 1,1985

Cross breed dogsCross breed dogs

Golden Retriever x poodle mix – Goldendoodle

Labrador x poodle mix– Labradoodle

Cocker Spaniel x poodle– Cockapoo

New cross breed dogsNew cross breed dogsCollie + Lhasa Apso = Collapso

– a dog that folds up for easy transport

Pointer + Setter = Poinsetter– a traditional Christmas pet

Pekingnese + Lhasa Apso = Peekasso– an abstract dog

Irish Water Spaniel + English Springer Spaniel = Irish Springer

– a dog fresh and clean as a whistleBull Terrier + Shitzu = Oh, never mind...

Why recommend certain breedsWhy recommend certain breeds

Experience, and experience of other objective individuals

Knowing time is limited in training & socializing

Breeds that are impossible to socialize into ‘nice’ dog

Breeds that parent selected & socialized properly

Breeds that “train themselves”

Puppy or adult – which is best?Puppy or adult – which is best?Advantage of puppy 6-16 weeks of age

– Can train to suit

– Can socialize to be used to what you will do

– Can teach bad habits if not familiar with dog training and do not correct right away

Advantage of adult – beyond 16 week old

– Can see habits and behavior and pass

– Can see size better

– Training ‘old dog’ not impossible, but harder

SummarySummary

Knowing what we want in a dog will help to pick the right dog.

Breed does matterMix breed is a roll of the dice in terms of

temperament and of physical characteristics.

SummarySummary There can be variations between puppies in

a litter. While ‘Puppy Aptitude tests’ are helpful,

most puppy’s temperament is modified by the training they receive from 6-16 weeks (socialization period)

Adult temperament and physical characteristics are more predictable.

Where to Get More InformationWhere to Get More InformationOnline

– LakeviewVeterinaryClinic.com Where we go online

– animal.discovery.com/breedselector/dogselector.do

– www.canismajor.com/dog/chbreed.html

– CDC.gov – dog bite statistics – avoid those breeds.

Where to Get More InformationWhere to Get More Information

Books– “The Right Dog for You” Daniel Tortora, Simon &

Shuster.

– “Paws to Consider”, by Brian Kilcommons Warner books.

Consult your veterinarian

Puppy Aptitude Test Social AttractionPuppy Aptitude Test Social AttractionPlace puppy in test area. From a few feet away the tester coaxes the pup to her/him by clapping hands gently and kneeling down. Tester must coax in a direction away from the point where it entered the testing area.

Degree of social attraction, confidence or dependence.

Came readily, tail up, jumped, bit at hands.

1

Came readily, tail up, pawed, licked at hands.

2

Came readily, tail up.

3

Came readily, tail down

4

Came hesitantly, tail down.

5

Didn't come at all. 6

Puppy Aptitude Test FollowingPuppy Aptitude Test FollowingStand up and walk away from the pup in a normal manner. Make sure the pup sees you walk away.

Degree of following attraction. Not following indicates independence.

Followed readily, tail up, got underfoot, bit at feet.

1

Followed readily, tail up, got underfoot.

2

Followed readily, tail up.

3

Followed readily, tail down.

4

Followed hesitantly, tail down.

5

No follow or went away.

6

Puppy Aptitude Test RestraintPuppy Aptitude Test RestraintCrouch down and gently roll the pup on his back and hold it with one hand for a full 30 seconds.

Degree of dominant orsubmissive tendency.How it accepts stresswhen socially/physically dominated

Struggled fiercely, flailed, bit.

1

Struggled fiercely, flailed.

2

Settled, struggled, settled with someeye contact.

3

Struggled then settled.

4

No struggle. 5No struggle, straining to avoid eye contact.

6

Puppy Aptitude Test Social DominancePuppy Aptitude Test Social DominanceLet pup standup and gently strokehim from the head to back whileyou crouch beside him.Continue stroking until a recognizable behavior is established

Degree of acceptanceof social dominance.Pup may try todominate by jumpingand nipping or isindependent and walksaway .

-Jumped, pawed, bit, growled.

1

-Jumped, pawed. 2-Cuddles up to testor and tries to lick face.

3

-Squirmed, licked at hands.

4

-Rolled over, licked at hands.

5

-Went away and stayed away.

6

Puppy Aptitude Test Elevation DominancePuppy Aptitude Test Elevation DominanceBend over and cradle the pup underits belly, fingers interlaced, palmsup and elevate it just off the ground.Hold it there for 30 seconds.

Degree of acceptingdominance while inposition of no control.

Struggled fiercely, bit, growled.

1

-Struggled fiercely.

2

-No struggle, relaxed

3

-Struggled, settled, licked

4

-No struggle, licked at hands.

5

-No struggle, froze.

6

Obedience Aptitude Test RetrievingObedience Aptitude Test RetrievingCrouch beside pup and attract his attention with crumpled up paper ball. When the pup shows interest and is watching, toss the object 4-6 feet in front of pup.

Degree of willingnessto work with a human. High correlationbetween ability to retrieve and successfulguide dogs, obediencedogs, field trial dogs.

-Chases object, picks up object and runs away.

1

-Chases object, stands over object, does not return.

2

-Chases object and returns with objectto testor.

3

-Chases object and returns without object to testor.

4

-Starts to chase object, loses interest.

5

-Does not chase object.

6

Obedience Aptitude Test Touch SensitivityObedience Aptitude Test Touch SensitivityTake puppy's webbing of one front foot and press between *finger and thumb lightly then more firmly till you get a response, while you count slowly to 10. Stop as soon as puppy pulls away, or shows discomfort. *Do NOT use fingernail.

Degree of sensitivity to touch.

8-10 counts before response.

1

6-7 counts before response.

2

5-6 counts before response.

3

2-4 counts before response.

4

1-2 counts before response.

5

Obedience Aptitude Test Sound SensitivityObedience Aptitude Test Sound SensitivityPlace pup in the center of area, testor or assistant makes a sharp noise a few feet from the puppy. A large metal spoon struck sharply on a metal pan twice works well.

Degree of sensitivity to sound. (Also can be arudimentary test for deafness.)

-Listens, locates sound, walks toward

it barking.

1

-Listens, locates sound, barks.

2

-Listens, locates sound, shows

curiosity and walks toward sound.

3

-Listens, locates the sound.

4

-Cringes, backs off, hides.

5

-Ignores sound, shows no curiosity.

6

Obedience Aptitude Test Sight SensitivityObedience Aptitude Test Sight Sensitivity

Place pup in center of room. Tiea string around a large towel andjerk it across the floor a few feetaway from puppy.

Degree of intelligentresponse to strangeobject.

-Looks, attacks and bites.

1

-Looks, barks and tail up.

2

-Looks curiously, attempts to investigate.

3

-Looks, barks, tail-tuck.

4

-Runs away, hides.

5

Interpreting scores – Mostly 1’sInterpreting scores – Mostly 1’sA puppy that consistently scores a 1 in the

temperament 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.  

Interpreting scores - Mostly 2’sInterpreting scores - 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.  

Interpreting scores – Mostly 3’sInterpreting scores – Mostly 3’s

This pup is outgoing and friendly and will adjust well in situations in which he receives regular training and exercise. He has a flexible temperament 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.  

Interpreting scores – Mostly 4’sInterpreting scores – 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.  

Interpreting scores – Mostly 5’sInterpreting scores – Mostly 5’sThis 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 best in a predictable, structured lifestyle with owners who are patient and not overly demanding, such as an elderly couple.  

Interpreting scores- Mostly 6’sInterpreting scores- Mostly 6’sA 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 a singularity of purpose that is not compromised by strong attachments to their owner.  

SummarySummary For most owners, a good companion dog will

score in the 3 to 4 range in this section of the test. Puppies scoring a combination of 1's and 2's

require experienced handlers who will be able to draw the best aspects of their potential from them.

The second half (Obedience Aptitude Test) of the puppy test is an evaluation of obedience aptitude and working ability and provides a general picture of a pup's intelligence, spirit, and willingness to work with humans.

Finding a ‘Breeder’Finding a ‘Breeder’

Good breeder– Considers how the breeding will improve the

breedBackyard breeder

– Anyone bringing two dogs together– Sell puppies– see the miracle of birth

What to expect when getting a What to expect when getting a puppypuppyNever buy from a pet store

– No matter what they tell you the pet store bought the puppy from a puppy mill – See backyard breeder

Breeder– Expect them to ask you questions

Where will dog sleep/ live?Have owned dog before? What happened? Is your yard fenced?Why do you want this breed of dog?Will you take your dog to training classes?

Questions you should ask breederQuestions you should ask breeder

Why did you breed these 2 dogs?Can I meet both parents?

– What do you like about each of them?What health checks do you do?If there is a health problem, will you take

dog back?When will you have a litter available?

– this may be 12 – 24 months – Be patient!

How to find a good breederHow to find a good breeder

Lakeview Veterinary Clinic receives a breeder book from the IKC

Illinois Valley Kennel Club or Corn belt Kennel club for referrals

online at national breed clubs Breed specific rescue groups Go to dog show and ask exhibitors If you know someone whose dog you like, ask where

they got their dog Breeder information from

– Judy Jurgens Top Dog Obedience Training 309-645-8993

Adult Dog Test – Kennel AproachAdult Dog Test – Kennel AproachWalk up to kennel. Do not speak, but look at dog for 5 seconds in neutral manner, neither smiling nor stare in threatening way. Then kneel or sit, talking pleasantly in friendly tone of voice.

Dog holds his body lengthwise along the kennel but glances away, wagging and wiggling. Ears are back, eyes are soft and squinty.

Green

Dog stares at you for a few seconds then stops.

Yellow

Dog stares, growls, and lunges, possibly barking the whole time.

Red

Dog Fancy February 2004 Pgs26-31

Adult Dog Test – HandAdult Dog Test – HandPlace hand against kennel, fingers outside cage.

Dog approaches your hand and noses, nuzzles or licks. Or turn sideways for you to pet more. Contact lasts longer than 2 seconds.

Green

Dog looses interest before 2 seconds.

Yellow

Dog ignores your hand, barks or growls,,or sniff not nuzzle or lick.

Red

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Adult Dog Test – Stand Adult Dog Test – Stand The following tests done in quite room with no other dogs presentThe following tests done in quite room with no other dogs present

Stand and hold dog on loose leash. Remain completely neutral – stand still and do not talk to dog. Observe dog for 60 seconds.

Dog initiates contact, licking and nudging hand, continuing for tow or more seconds. Jumping should be gentle. Attempts to engage you at least three times.

Green

Dog initiates interactions but stops after only a second or two. Dog gets mouthy.

Yellow

Dog ignores you the whole time, and offers no initiating behavior. Jumping NOT gentle.

Red

Dog Fancy February 2004 Pgs26-31

Adult Dog Test – StrokesAdult Dog Test – StrokesWith dog on leash, stroke him, starting at neck, and going to base of the tail. Do 3 times, standing for brief pause between strokes.

Dog moves closer or licks and nudges your hand.

Green

Dog starts to come but doesn’t, or remains where it was.

Yellow

Dog comes closer only one time or not at all. May turn and stare at your hand, or become excited but move away.

Red

Dog Fancy February 2004 Pgs26-31

Adult Dog Test – ChairAdult Dog Test – ChairSit in chair, and don’t say anything.

Dog sits between your legs, nuzzles you or rests his head on your lap.

Green

Dog jumps up, and makes you move back, gets in your space, or waits longer than 5 seconds to approach.

Yellow

Dog ignores you and does not approach.

Red

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Adult Dog Test – 20 second of Adult Dog Test – 20 second of attentionattention

For 20 seconds, remain sitting, keeping dog on loose leash but not restraining him. Pet, stroke, and talk pleasantly to the dog for 20 seconds.

Dog licks you, snuggles, or crawls in your lap.

Green

Dog approaches you but gets excited, gets mouthy, takes a while to come over or leaves before the 20 seconds ends.

Yellow

Dog ignores you and does not approach.

Red

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Adult Dog Test – ListeningAdult Dog Test – ListeningTo get sense of how dog will listen to you . Start on loose leash, When he is busy investigating something, clap sharply and say loudly (not scolding) “Hey”.

Dog stops what he’s doing and comes close, licking your hand or lowering his body.

Green

Dog stops, looks at you, then continues to explore.

Yellow

Dog continues what he is doing or stops but does not look at you. Dog growls.

Red

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Adult Dog Test – Test DriveAdult Dog Test – Test DriveTaking the dog for a walk. Testing around children is good at this stage.

Dog is interested in the environment but often looks back to you.Pro active friendly with children.

Green

Dog lunges at other dogs but can be redirected by voice or food treat.

Yellow

Dog lunges at humans and other dogs.

Red

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