Friday, January 2, 2009

3E CARAT Assessment Test for Dogs

Generally, Assessment tests for puppies are a poor indicator of what a dog becomes as an adult. They are fraught with problems that vary from the knowledge level and skill of the assessor to the environment the tests are conducted in etc. Dogs are a product of both their genetics (look closely at the health, temperament and behavior of parents and grandparents) and the environment they are raised in. Just like people, they are all individuals.

So far, the best indicator test that is showing some accuracy (via scientific testing) is the CARAT Test  developed by Suzanne Clothier.
It must be administered and interpreted by someone who has done the certification program. Contact her to see if there is anyone certified in your area.

If you are going to use temperament tests, use them with a grain of salt.