3 More Aptitude Tests For Your Golden Retriever Puppy

Test #1: RestraintHe gets a moderate score if he initially resists this
Sit on the floor. Wrap your arm around the puppy'saction, but then relents.
chest, gently keeping him from moving. Hold him - ifAnd yes, score that dog a 3 - the highest possible
possible - like this for a full 30 seconds.score - if he relaxes and not only allows you to do all
You'll score him low if any of the following occurs: theof this, but actually likes it as well.
puppy panics and struggles, scratches or tries to biteTest #3: Sound Sensitivity
you (and in this case, let him go right away!), orRemember those keys you brought with you? Drop
shakes and trembles out of fear.the set of keys some 12 feet behind him, so he can't
Give him a moderate score if he struggles initially, butsee it happening and he doesn't know what has
then relents and relaxes in your arms.caused the noise. Observe his reaction.
Score him the highest possible score if heIf he jumps, shakes, or otherwise acts startled or
immediately relaxes in your arms. You may evenfrightened give him a low score. He also gets a low
notice that he moves a little closer. He scores off thescore if he attacks the keys, growling and biting at
top of the gauge if, in addition to all of this, he licksthem or if he barks uncontrollably.
you as well.He'll receive a moderate score if he is startled, but
Test #2: Handlingrecovers within 20 seconds. He'll also receive the
Sit on the floor. Pet the pup. Start at the head andsame score if he goes to sniff at the keys but acts
the ears, then continue with his back. Stroke his tailvery cautiously.
too as well as each foot and leg. During this you canThe puppy receives the highest score possible if he is
talk to him in a pleasant, inviting soft voice.fearful or startled initially, but recovers within 10
If the pup actively resists this action or nips at you,seconds, checking the situation out!
he gets a low score.