Six and 11 month assessment.

The six and 11 month puppy raising assessment.

When the pup is six months and 11 months old, you will be asked to complete a simple assessment to help us track how the pup is progressing towards being ready for assessment and training. The assessment form will be sent to you.

Here are the questions so you know what to look for and what to work on with your Puppy Development Advisor (PDA):

1. The pup calmly allows a collar and puppy coat to be placed on them by the Handler, without backing away to avoid the equipment or becoming overly stimulated.
2. The pup walks freely in the puppy coat and it does not appear to have a significant impact on the pup's walking speed or general demeanour.
3. On leash, the pup walks at a consistent speed besides, or in front of, the Handler.
4. The pup greets other people in a friendly, polite manner without becoming over-stimulated e.g. jumping, launching at people, mouthing, or vocalising.
5. The pup is comfortable around novel or unfamiliar objects and people. It can investigate, but does not become "spooked" or vocalise (such as whining, barking or growling) towards novel or unfamiliar objects and people.
6. The pup is comfortable walking up and down stairs, and does not baulk, freeze, or rush/pull excessively.
7. The pup is comfortable walking on a variety of surfaces like concrete, grass, gravel, service coverings, and puddles.
8. The pup is unconcerned by noises, including a variety of traffic, construction, and other sudden noises, and recovers quickly when startled.
9. The pup remains responsive to the Handler when in the yellow zone, and rarely goes into the red zone.
10. The pup remains connected and responsive to the Handler in the presence of other dogs when on leash.
11. The pup can mix socially with other dogs in a safe, playful manner.
12. The pup shares resources like toys with other dogs, and does not freeze, growl, snap, or bite when resources are taken away, either by a person or another dog.
13. The pup willingly gets into the car and is comfortable travelling in the front passenger footwell.
14. The pup takes kibble gently when offered by the Handler.
15. The pup has a consistent and appropriate toileting routine. This includes not toileting inside the home, toileting in an appropriate area, and not defecating on walks.
16. The pup displays good house manners, and does not counter-surf for food, jump on furniture, excessively seek out bins and other opportunities for scavenging, or chew on inappropriate items.
17. The pup can be left alone without people or other dogs for longer periods of one to two hours without becoming overly anxious, barking, or whining excessively.
18. The pup can settle and remain calm, independent of toys and treats.
19. The pup can be held in a calm restraint for the administration of medication and health checks.
20. The pup is generally responsive to the Handler and appears motivated to learn and engage.