If you could write the temperament breed standard..

[Fran101]

for any breed (one you own. one you love etc.. ) or specific dog what would it look like?

You can change the current standard, or just expand on it and explain more for those who find it unclear
You can write it more specifically to YOUR dog (individually or certain lines/breed type) or just for the breed in general

I just thought it would be interesting! I was looking through the breed thread and noticed that some temperament descriptions were rather short, some people agreed on, some didn't etc..

If you can, post the original breed standard from the breed club or registry
if you have a mixed breed.. just make one up! lol

[Kat09Tails]

I actually kind of like the wording for the papillon one. Now if people only bred to the standard above coat length *whistles.*

Happy, alert and friendly. Neither shy nor aggressive.

[PWCorgi]

I love this thread. Total dog nerdage right here.

[Fran101]

Originally Posted by PWCorgi

I love this thread. Total dog nerdage right here.

this probably is hands down the nerdiest dog thread I've ever concocted lol

[Laurelin]

Originally Posted by Kat09Tails

I actually kind of like the wording for the papillon one. Now if people only bred to the standard above coat length *whistles.*

Happy, alert and friendly. Neither shy nor aggressive.

Oh goodness, the coat length is pretty bad in some lines these days. Rose and Beau are way too hairy of mine (although to be fair they have the awful spay/neuter coats).

Love Summer's coat length (and she is spayed) I think it's ideal even if it's not showy.

There was a good description of the papillon temperament in a book.
This is from a new owner's guide to papillons by Deborah Wood.

Papillons don't fit the stereotype of little lap dogs. They are energetic, busy, curious, cheerful, bright little dogs. There is probably no accomplishment in the world of dogs that a papillon has not achieved. They work as loyal service dogs to people with disabilities, and some of the top obedience dogs in the country have been papillons. They also excel at the physically demanding sports of agility and flyball. Papillons aren't for everyone but for those of us that love them, there is no more wonderful breed in the world.

Although most people are first drawn to the breed because of its appearance, it doesn't take long to realize that what really sets papillons apart from other breeds is their personalities. It isn't coincidence that papillons are among the most successful breeds in all of dogdom in obedience and agility competitions. Most papillons are intelligent, problem solving, active little dogs.

Many papillons and owners face heartache when people confuse the dog's adorable outward appearance with the personality of the dog underneath the fur. If you want a quiet lap dog who enjoys nothing more than spending the day snuggled up on a couch calmly watching television with you, then another breed is probably a better choice. If however, you're looking for a fun-loving, adventurous dog who likes to learn tricks, wants to go wherever you do, and loves to play games, a papillon might fill the bill.

Papillons love to learn and enjoy a challenge. Talk with papillon owners and you will commonly hear stories of dogs who learned to open kitchen cabinets or trick other dogs out of toys. Papillons excel at canine sports and earn more obedience, agility, and tracking titles than most other toy breeds combined. Papillons have been stars in agility trials since the sport became popular in the US. In 1999 the AKC added the title of Master Agility Champion (MACH) and 3 of the first 16 dogs of all breeds to earn this title were papillons. In fact the first dog of any breed to recieve top honors in conformation, obedience, tracking and agility is a papillon OTCh Ch Loteki Sudden Impulse UDX TDX MX (MX was the top agility title when 'Zack' was competing).... In 1999 a Papillon named Peek was named Delta Society's Service Animal of the Year.

While it sounds intriguing to have such a clever, athletic dog, think twice. A dog with enough drive to work as a service dog or be a top competitor maybe too much of a handful to be content as a family pet. Many papillons can leap 4 feet in the air from a standstill, meaning careful management for your papillon is necessary.

Although most all papillons are lively, people oriented dogs there is a range of energy levels and a need for constant entertainment in papillons. Some papillons reflect the more laid back personality of their spaniel ancestors while others are more like miniature border collies and will generally get themselves into terrible trouble if they don't have at least an hour or two of highly interactive, demanding activity in a day.

While papillons are busy, hardy, and athletic dogs, they are also very sensitive dogs. After all this breed has had a thousand years to perfect its relationship with humans. Be prepared for the next 15 years of your life to be spent with two bright, brown eyes staring at you, waiting for you to play. Don't expect to spend a waking moment alone again; not when you're cooking dinner, reading a book, not even when you're in the bathroom. Papillons are truly only happy when they are with the people they love.

Some papillons are shy. Be aware of this tendency and if a soft dog isn't for you then be careful when you select your papillon. On the other hand, other papillons are very pushy and the breed has even been called 'little tyrants'. These bold, quick, smart dogs can decide they are far more clever than any human.

The papillon is not necessarily a cuddle-bunny. Many first time papillon owners are shocked when their dog would prefer not to cuddle.If you're envisioning a dog who loves to cuddle, another breed might be better for you.

Still my favorite description of the breed temperament overall. Not a breed standard though.

[Maliraptor]

From the AKC Belgian Malinois standard:

Temperament
Correct temperament is essential to the working character of the Belgian Malinois. The breed is confident, exhibiting neither shyness nor aggressiveness in new situations. The dog may be reserved with strangers but is affectionate with his own people. He is naturally protective of his owner's person and property without being overly aggressive. The Belgian Malinois possesses a strong desire to work and is quick and responsive to commands from his owner. Faulty temperament is strongly penalized.

"reserved with strangers"

There is a fine line between RESERVED and AFRAID. I think a lot of dogs that are labeled "reserved" or "non-social" are in fact, insecure. Reserved is ok. A confident dog, that simply does not want to fawn over strangers. NOT a nervous, scared dog that doesn't want to be touched.

My pet peeve. A "no-touch" Belgian is ok. If it is no-touch for the right reason.

[Aleron]

Originally Posted by Maliraptor

There is a fine line between RESERVED and AFRAID. I think a lot of dogs that are labeled "reserved" or "non-social" are in fact, insecure. Reserved is ok. A confident dog, that simply does not want to fawn over strangers. NOT a nervous, scared dog that doesn't want to be touched.

My pet peeve. A "no-touch" Belgian is ok. If it is no-touch for the right reason.

No doubt, that applies to all Belgian varieties. And GSDs. And probably any other breed that has reserved, standoffish or aloof in their description. People too often use that as an excuse for their fearful dog who is hiding behind them growling.

[Lyzelle]

I generally don't tend to like AKC Siberian Huskies. They are either watered down from the intense working dogs they were meant to be, or they just look/act completely different from what *I* prefer the Siberian Husky to look/act like.

On the AKC website, they describe the Siberian Husky as an "easy keeper". In my opinion, that is DEFINITELY misleading. In no way, shape, or form is the Sibe an "easy keeper".

The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly and gentle, but also alert and outgoing. He does not display the possessive qualities of the guard dog, nor is he overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive with other dogs. Some measure of reserve and dignity may be expected in the mature dog. His intelligence, tractability, and eager disposition make him an agreeable companion and willing worker.

If I were to re-write that, it would probably sound more intimidating, and certainly not a "fun" dog to own. They are extremely stubborn, independent thinkers, and while they do not "need" their owners, they do need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and content. I wouldn't consider most Sibes to be outgoing, but I do consider them reserved, and more apt to look on from a distance before running up and checking it out. Curious. Friendly and gentle do describe trained Sibes, but since they are so independent and strong willed, untrained Sibes are commonly harsh, rough, and quite suspicious. They are easy bullies, they love to tease and torment other dogs and some humans, but can be push overs just as easily. They definitely tend to be a dog that is control or be controlled.


But, "my" type of Sibe doesn't fit the AKC standard, so, meh.

[Sit Stay]

The English Shepherd temperament standard as per the UKC

CHARACTERISTICS
Energetic, intelligent, very active, agile, courageous and gritty. Fearless for their purpose. Acting immediately when commanded, and very responsive to the master's voice. Adapting themselves almost at once to working commands around farm stock. Working characteristics include: strictly low heeling, and very free with the use of their teeth. Also very watchful as guards of the home. Companionable to their master.

Fault: Excessive nervousness, or aggression.

Per the English Shepherd Club (has some working and temperament descriptions)n- I prefer this one and find it quite accurate. I like the maintaining order part LOL, that's Quinn.

Working Characteristics
The English shepherd typically works stock in an upright, loose-eyed manner rather than crouching and showing strong eye. He is generally a natural low heeler and will gather or drive as is needed. He will be forceful if necessary, but not be too rough, discerning the amount of force needed and handling stock accordingly.

The seamless combination of independent working ability and a desire to work in partnership with his master is a hallmark of the English shepherd. His natural instincts enable him to carry out his work with a minimum of direction; his confidence, purposefulness, and a deep commitment to rules compels him to maintain order in his environment even in his master's absence. At the same time, he is intensely loyal to and ever aware of his master and possesses a willingness to obey.

The English shepherd is not obsessive about herding and is capable of resting quietly at his master's feet when there is no work required. He can be trusted to not bother livestock and does not require kenneling when chores are done. Indeed, the English shepherd frequently develops a bond with, and displays a nurturing attitude toward, his owner's livestock and will keep them in their place while guarding against unwanted predators and pests.

The English shepherd is agile and quick, sturdy and muscular, with the stamina and grit to cover many miles over all types of terrain. He has keen senses, and can trail lost or injured animals. Calm in disposition, the English shepherd will withstand the pressure of long hours of demanding work.

By far the best "ready-made" article I've found that sums up an English Shepherd quite nicely! Reminds me so much of Quinn. This is written by Mary Peaslee.

English Shepherds Are...

Intelligent

Intelligence is a wonderful quality. It means your dog will learn quickly and retain what he's learned. In a typical obedience class, your English Shepherd will be a star student. English Shepherds are alert, active learners - willing to please when you express an opinion, but also continually trying to figure things out for themselves.

Intelligence can lead to trouble. Your dog will quickly learn exactly when and where rules apply in your home. In addition, your English Shepherd will diligently test precisely what the boundaries are to these so-called "rules"… does 'no dogs on furniture' apply to the den as well as the living room? What about at night? The cat gets to sleep on the bed - is the bed considered "furniture?" Your dog will want all these questions answered.

Intelligent dogs learn from each experience, so if you don't want a particular behavior to become entrenched, you must be willing to respond quickly and clearly - or your dog will have learned a new trick. Even better, be proactive, and set things up so your dog doesn't have the opportunity to learn bad habits.

Intelligence can be dangerous when it is combined with boredom. Give some thought as to how your dog's intelligence can be constructively applied.

Territorial

English Shepherds do not tend to stray or wander away from the home. Since very few fences are tall enough to contain a motivated English Shepherd, this commitment to hearth and home is a useful trait. Particularly in a home with small children, or other unreliable family members, knowing your dog is unlikely to bolt if the gate gets left open is reassuring. Unfortunately, you may find meter readers, delivery persons, and unexpected guests trapped in their vehicles in your driveway. An English Shepherd should not be aggressive (bite) without provocation, however he may demand that unfamiliar visitors "halt!" until you say otherwise. Early socialization of your English Shepherd puppy is critical for developing his ability to judge who and what poses a real threat and learning how to respond appropriately. English Shepherd owners, particularly those in urban areas, must be willing to provide that socialization.


Devoted

As far as your English Shepherd is concerned, you are the center of the universe. A desire to be with you is fundamental to his character: if you are typing on the computer, your English Shepherd will be under the desk; if you are taking a shower, your English Shepherd will be lying on the bathroom floor; if you are working on the farm, your English Shepherd will do his best to help out - whether that means dragging branches to the woodpile, or moving sheep between pastures. This devotion is so intrinsic to the breed, many owners refer to their dogs as "English Shadows." Not everyone wants a dog that needs to be your partner and companion. Some people may find it irritating. These people should consider a different breed (or species)!

Bossy

Notice the word choice here - bossy, not "dominant." There is a difference, though it can be difficult to grasp at first. Perhaps the easiest way to think about it is dominant dogs care about status (social position), bossy English Shepherds care about the status quo (social order). Rather like your Aunt Sally, who can not help straightening up your books and wiping off the countertops when she visits, a typical English Shepherd has a strong internal sense of How Things Should Be and will work very hard to create and maintain that order wherever they go.

They can become furry control freaks, insisting that everyone - and particularly other dogs - obey the Rules. If you turn a well-socialized English Shepherd loose in a typical off-leash dog park, you might as well give him a little striped jersey and whistle at the same time, because he will immediately assume the role of referee. If your particular English Shepherd has a dominant personality, he will probably act as an Enforcer. Dogs that are playing too rough, being rude or pushy, running too fast or barking too loud will be put back in line. If your English Shepherd has a softer, more submissive personality, he may act as an Informer, alerting you - the Pack Leader - to rule violations . This can be distressing to owners whose ideal is the stereotypical glad-handing Golden Retriever: a dog that plays well with others and gets along with everyone. English Shepherds benefit from playing with other dogs, and most have a select group of canine buddies (often from other herding breeds) that they would run with for hours. They are not canine extroverts, however, nor are they perennial puppies. Once they have matured, usually by age 2, their demeanor is characterized by seriousness of purpose and regard for order.

This quality deserves respect. It is what drives a working English Shepherd to put the cows back in their pasture at night when the fence breaks. It is what causes your family pet to steer little Anna back to the house after she discovers how to open the front door and starts to wander down the driveway. It is what saves you many hours of training with dog #2 - you can rely on your perfectly trained and totally devoted English Shepherd to teach the young heathen how to sit for meals, wait at doorways, and come when called. Don't believe it? Just wait!

[-bogart-]

My dream dog is.
Good natured and reserved. Happy with family , loves kids.
Medium build with short coat. All colors . Prick ears.
Lazyier the better.


Any one got a dog that fits this. ?