Animal Advocates Watchdog

Re: SPCA DOG BEHAVIOUR EVALUATION TEST

There is certainly a lot I don't like about these tests, especially #6 as below:

Step 6. Startle the dog

Stand up, let the dog go to the end of the leash and when he is not attending to you, clap your hands loudly and say “HEY!” or “AGGGHH!” loudly, then stand quietly. Alternatively, set off a small hand-held air horn or drop a metal food dish on the cement floor. If you choose to startle the dog a second time, wait until the dog has calmed down first. Rate the dog on each of the following scales. Place the letter A at the point that best describes the dog’s behavior for the first test and the letter B for the second test. Make note of any extreme reactions or other conditions that may help to interpret the dog’s behaviour.

If my beautiful, well socialized, childproof, happy coonhound ended up at any shelter that did this test, he'd be a dead dog by these standards. Why? Because hounds in general are afraid of this type of thing, and react accordingly. The key here is that as his guardian for the past 8 yrs, I've learned this about him, and I need to be responsible and aware of any stimulus that may scare him.

I don't believe these tests can accurately and fairly represent all of the breeds, as they each have their own special characteristics that are unique to them, and this evaluation does not seem to recognize that. Someone needs to tailor these tests into "breed categories" based on each breed and how they are. Now THAT is a huge project for someone who knows about dog breed personalities, but if this testing program is to remain, I think this needs to be done.

Messages In This Thread

Who should kill society's unwanted dogs?
CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
Re: CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
Re: CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
It's the Same Thing...only Different!
Re: CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
Re: CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
Re: CAMP Test Should Be Scrapped
SPCA DOG BEHAVIOUR EVALUATION TEST
How is this test scored?
It's not about the test it's about the intent
RSPCA validation, SPCA intention?
Re: SPCA DOG BEHAVIOUR EVALUATION TEST
The test is just going to freak the dog out

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