Australian Bandog

T-Dog

That’s some of the more sound advice dropped. Two similar but different families of dogs who excel in different things.

Regardless of specialization - what I Breed and test for - are traits that allow a dog to succeed at either. Who the dog develops into (old enough to show preferences and capabilities) around 14-16mo will really determine where they excel. What’s most important is giving them the chance to mature, explore these traits responsibly. And allow them the opportunity to do what they are best at.

Many of the traits I select and test for - are not only transferable (for man or hog work) but also really just the basis for a sound, confident animal. If a dog doesn’t have the basics - the fundamentals - it won’t be used.

Puppy observation tests around 6-8weeks include

Testing for nerve/confidence/curiosity

Tossing a jar of rocks into a puppy pile - who takes off tail tucked and running. Who chases the jar excitedly. Who runs away but comes back to investigate. Who barks at it from a distance.

Playing tug with a rag - observing bite style and tenacity (who stays committed to a grip) - and for the stronger pups - who stays committed to the grip when the jar of rocks is shaken over head

Popping an umbrella open - purposely startling the pups

Who takes off running. Who stands firm. Who barks defensively. Who’s first to investigate.

Although puppies mature differently - some of these tests have served me quite well in picking individuals capable of working and working well. It demonstrates sound confident dogs who can meet challenges head on and what I feel a first demonstration of just WHO the dog is.

I test dogs defensively around 14-18mo depending how they are bred. A simple backtie test with a suspicious stranger who makes their way towards the dog about 50yards away is all it takes.

When will the dog start trying to create avoidance behavior in the suspicious stranger? At 50yards or at 10? Are you tucking tail and turning around exhibiting stress and avoidance or are you taught at the end of the leash coming forward curiously or letting out some cautionary barks. Are you just so confident that you’re not barking at all?

Everydog doesn’t make the cut. Everydog won’t be bred. Everydog won’t be suitable for high level work. Crossbreeding doesn’t guarantee consistency. But hopefully selection - with the understanding that I may get two lines will.

I already know the first crosses - won’t give me dogs suitable for man work. But rather ingredients I can build upon.

Thanks for the feedback!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk