Call for 'temperament tested' dogs
THE Australian Veterinary Association has recommended dogs be 'temperament tested' to help owners choose suitable pets and Allora Vet Clinic veterinarian Jane Gilmore said she was all for it.
"I think it is a good idea," Dr Gilmore said.
"Especially for families, so they can find just the right breed for them."
Dr Gilmore said 'temperament testing' was a fairly easy test.
"You just check each individual dog's ability to cope with stress," she said.
"You spend some time with the dogs and see how they react in certain situations."
Dr Gilmore said a dog that got frightened when a toddler came running at it, would not be suitable for a home with young children.
Dr Gilmore said temperament testing would help buyers make more informed decisions.
"Any dog can bite if it is put in the wrong hands," she said.
Dr Gilmore said compulsory obedience training for all dogs and their owners was not necessary.
"Maybe it should be compulsory for dogs with a temperament issue," she said.
