Behavior and Personality Assessment in Dogs

BPH is a behavioral assessment aiming to contribute to better knowledge about the mentality and personality of dogs, all dogs.

Airedale terrier sniffing treats during a behavioral assessment
Photo by Åsa Lindholm

It should be helpful for breed clubs, breeders and dog owners to have a tool which helps to describe the personality of the dog, whether it is a potential breeding animal, pet or working dog. For a person considering to buy a dog, BPH can also give a description of the general mentality of various breeds and of the parents of the puppy litter of interest. Every BPH-described dog contributes with a piece of information that increases our understanding and knowledge about the behavior of that specific breed and of dogs in general.

30 minutes, 7 parts

The BPH takes about 30 minutes. It consists of 7 parts and the aim is to give a summary of how the dog reacts in and handles various situations. This could be about meeting strangers, playing, searching for food and surprises. If desired, the dog’s reaction to gun shot can also be described. After finishing the track, the observer will give an oral summary of the dog’s reactions to the owner and gives a subjective description of its personality.