Mixed Breeds For Dummies. Miriam Fields-Babineau

the game.

      Some dogs have the genetic tendency to play fetch following the rules; other dogs have different ideas. Some dogs would rather just chase the ball and take it elsewhere so that nobody else can play with it. Other dogs think you’re nuts if you think she’s going to chase that thing when she’d rather be sleeping or chewing on a bone.

      This test will let you know which tendency is most likely in a dog. There are two parts to this test, and I cover both in the following sections.

      Give and take

      The reaction a dog has to this test will depend on the value of the object you give and take away. For example, for some dogs, a squeaky toy might be fun to play with, but a food-filled bone is of higher value, and the dog may not give it up easily.

      

Begin this test with a toy of lesser value, such as a stick or rubber toy, and gradually work your way toward something of higher value, like a tasty bone.

      To do this test, just give the dog the item. Then gently take the item away, either offering another one in its place or caressing the dog as you take the object so as not to present a threatening situation.

      Possible reactions you may see in the dog include the following:

       The dog growls. This dog is possessive. This dog is certainly not right for a family with anyone who isn’t persistent and patient, and certainly not for a family with children or elderly residents.

       The dog holds the object, but eventually gives it up. This reaction shows a dog who may have some possessive tendencies, but will quickly learn to drop on cue, if given a chance to learn the behavior. This dog will do well in a home with consistent owners, but not with young children, as they have a tendency to pull items from the dog’s mouth, which can cause a negative reaction from the dog.

       The dog readily gives up the object or the dog drops the object and runs away. Dogs who have these reactions will work well in any environment, but if the dog does run away, her guardians need to be patient with her, because she has a short attention span.

      Chase and retrieve

      To do this test, take one of the dog’s favorite toys, and throw it a short distance.

      Possible reactions you may see in the dog include the following:

       The dog goes after the toy, picks it up, and runs off. A dog who runs off with the toy is possessive. She likes to chase her toys, but she doesn’t want anyone else to share them with her.

       The dog goes after the toy, picks it up, and lays down with it. This dog may not be in a playful mood, but definitely wants to possess her toy.

       The dog is curious and goes to check out the toy, but then walks away. This dog doesn’t have much interest in the toy. Are you sure you chose a favored toy? If not, try again. If you did choose her favorite toy, this dog is one who just doesn’t like to play fetch, or who is so stressed that playing isn’t in her current itinerary.

       The dog doesn’t go after the toy. This dog just doesn’t like toys or doesn’t care about that particular toy. Try additional toys until you get some response. If the dog doesn’t have any response, the dog likely either hasn’t gotten the point of toys or hasn’t found anything that floats her boat.

       The dog goes after the toy, picks it up, and returns it to you. This dog is highly interactive and social. She wants to play with you and is a natural retriever. She’ll likely do well in an active environment with children of all ages and people who spend lots of time with her.

      Follow the leader: Testing for social skills

      This test is important if you have other animals at home or live in an animal-filled neighborhood. The last thing you want to deal with is a dog who is aggressive to other dogs or wants to chase cats.

      The only way you’ll be able to do this test is if the dog is currently being housed in a facility where there are other animals. If she’s currently in a foster home, she’s probably already acclimated to living harmoniously with other animals so this test may not be necessary. But it can be useful if the dog is in a shelter or humane society without direct contact to other animals on a regular basis.

      Here’s what to do: Walk her by the kennels of the other dogs. Then walk her in the cat area.

Possible reactions you may see in the dog include the following:

       The dog goes after any other dog or cat. This is a dog who shouldn’t go into a home with other dogs or cats or into a neighborhood that has many other dogs or cats in close quarters.

       The dog only goes after other aggressive animals (those jumping, barking/meowing, or growling/hissing as she goes by). This dog will fight if challenged. Again, not a good candidate in a home with other dogs or cats, or in a neighborhood where other dogs or cats are living or walking nearby.

       The dog doesn’t show aggression, but does show an eagerness to say hello to a quiet dog or cat. This is a friendly dog who should do well in any environment.

       The dog walks by with no reaction. This dog should do well in any environment.

       The dog runs by and tries to get away from the aggressive dogs and cats. This dog should do well in a home with other dogs or cats, but should be introduced carefully and with as much positive reinforcement as possible. She’s probably never had the opportunity to socialize with other animals and just needs some time to acclimate.

      

Some dogs react negatively toward cats but love other dogs. And believe it or not, some dogs love cats and can’t stand other dogs. Pay close attention to how the dog reacts to dogs as well as cats — she may be fine with one species and not the other. Do keep in mind your neighborhood, though. For example, if you live in an apartment complex with other dog owners, and the dog you’re considering doesn’t like other dogs, you could run into trouble every time you take your dog out for a walk.

Part 2

      Living with Your Mixed-Breed Dog

IN THIS PART …

      Prepare your home for your new best friend.

      Bring your new dog home.

      Know what to feed your new mixed breed.

      Keep your buddy looking good.

      Help your dog get the exercise he needs.