Watch how the puppy acts with its parents and its littermates. If it is inquisitive and likes to play, that's a good sign. Also see how it will play with a human. Some general temperment tests I learned when my family raised guide dogs are to hold the puppy up- hold it under its tummy and let its legs hang. If it squirms a lot, it's okay. If it growls or snaps, it's too aggressive, and if it just looks sad and doesn't do anything, it may either be sick or it has a "soft" personality.
Also, turn it over so it is lying on its back and hold it down lightly. Again, squirming is good. If it squirms a lot and yips, but then resigns or wriggles free, then that's a good sign. If it snaps or growls or tries to bite you, it's not a good sign. If it just lies there, it is sickly or a "soft" dog.
Don't get me wrong- "Soft" dogs are just as good as dogs with a regular, good temperament. They're just a little more shy with a "softer" personality. The only possibly bad thing is that it may become passive aggressive. But if you get a puppy with a soft personality, when you're training it, treat it like a shy child or a child with easily-hurt feelings. You have to be gentler, but they can turn into some of the best dogs. |