This project examines whether personality traits can inform about future training of service dogs. Svartberg and Forkeman (2002) identified the main variables describing personality in dogs as; playfulness, curiosity, fearlessness, desire to chase, sociability, and aggressiveness. An animal’s personality derives from the impacts of both genetics and environment, including previous experiences (Lofgren et al., 2014). Genetics – the breed and breed line – have a powerful influence on …show more content…
Labradoodles are used for service dogs for people who are hypoallergenic As well as genetics, the environment in which the puppy is brought up will also play a big role in the development of its personality. Critical periods in early life are known to affect the long-term behaviour of the dog (Scott and Marston, 1950). The lack of proper socialization during critical socialization periods of a puppy’s life can also lead to different personality traits such as excessive fearfulness or aggression. Puppies progress through learning and development stages just as human children do. By introducing dogs to different kinds of people, animals and environments, the puppies will grow in their confidence and in turn develop their individual personality (Freedman et al., 1961). At eight weeks of age the puppies are given to their puppy walkers who will raise them and socialize them according to a set of recommendations provided by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT (Batt et al., 2008a). Based upon the work carried out but Scott and Fuller (1965) it has been noted that adequate socialisation is necessary for appropriate adult