What is aptitude testing, or as some people incorrectly call it ‘temperament testing’?
Aptitude testing is putting a puppy through a series of ‘test’ to see how they react in different situations. Generally, the test is done in a new location and by a person the puppy does not know. There are many different types of test out there, but the most popular test is the Volhart Puppy Aptitude. https://www.volharddognutrition.com/choosing-your-puppy-pat/
Can adult personality be identified at aptitude testing?
No, the aptitude testing simply will give a snapshot view into how a puppy behaves in a new environment on that day. It can give clues to how a puppy might react in the future, as well as how best to socialize the puppy. This could clue a breeder about holes in their training and their socialization program. A new owner can take the information and tell if a puppy might need some extra training for their lifestyle. It is a short half hour in the life of the puppy as seen by a stranger. You cannot tell what sort of personality an adult human will have at 1 year of age. You cannot tell what sort of personality a puppy will have at 7 weeks, with or without an aptitude test. Far more weight should be given to the temperament of the puppy’s parents and grandparents than the aptitude test. Note: Some puppies choose not to play the game and the information can be used as a guide to help build up the puppy’s tolerance to change.
What is the value of the aptitude test?
You can see if new environments stress them or excite them, how they react to new sights and sounds, if they have a higher prey drive and retrieving drive right from the start during stress. All of these things can be shaped to one degree or another by exposure and socialization, but if there are things someone wants which are easily seen at 7 weeks, then it is one less item they need to ‘train’. IMO the aptitude testing is far less valuable than what a breeder sees during the entire time they live with them. It is only one more set of eyes to make sure the breeder has not missed anything. This tool is more useful for new breeders who do not have many years of experience within their breed.
Should you only work with breeders who aptitude test?
If someone is experienced at puppy selection, they do not need to do a full aptitude test. Sometimes aptitude testing it can skew your perspective. I did not bother with Locket’s litter when I went to select my puppy. Why? Because I can interact with puppies for a short time and see if there are any issues I might not want to deal with once home. If the puppy’s core behaviors are in line with my personal needs, I can shape train the rest. After speaking with Locket’s breeder about what she saw as they were growing, viewing the parents, and seeing their personalities in action, it allowed me to narrow the field. I did not want to perform a test and pass on a puppy, just because it decided not to play the aptitude testing game that day.
Conclusion
While aptitude testing is useful, if you are buying a puppy from someone who has been in the breed for years, who knows the parents personality, and has stated they should produce a puppy suitable for your goals; it is highly likely they will have the knowledge to match a puppy to a home, regardless of aptitude testing.