Dog Temperament vs. Dog Training: What's the Difference and Why It Matters

When it comes to raising a well-rounded dog, two things often get confused: temperament and training. Don't get me wrong, both play a huge role in how your dog behaves and adjusts to your home, but they are not the same. Many times, when I'm talking to new potential families, they mention how they want a dog with a calm temperament that doesn't jump, bark, or knock down kids. However, one must understand that yes, temperament can play a big role in this, but A LOT of the time, this is a training issue. A puppy must be taught how to behave and what behavior is acceptable and what is not. Understanding the difference can help you build a stronger bond with your pup from the very beginning.

So, what is Dog Temperament?

Temperament is your dog's natural personality. Think of it like their default settings. It's the part of their behavior that they're just born with. Just like people, every puppy is different. Some puppies are bold and adventurous, while others are more cautious and mellow. At DALD we evaluate temperament around 6-7 weeks of age with the help of a professional canine behaviorist. During testing, we look at things like:

-social willingness (how they interact with people)

-tolerance to restraint

-Startle and recovery response

-confidence levels

-sensitivity to sound and new environments.

This helps families find the right puppy-match and not just the cutest puppy, but the one that truly fits their lifestyle.

What is Dog Training?

Training, on the other hand, is what your puppy learns through experience and guidance. It's the set of skills and behaviors you intentionally shape, like sit, stay, potty training, and walking politely on leash.

Training builds on your puppy's temperament. It teaches them how to navigate the world, follow rules, and develop good manners.

Why Understanding Both Matters

Here are a few reasons why both temperament and training matter in raising your puppy:

-A confident dog with no training can become a handful.

-A shy dog with poor socialization may struggle to thrive in a busy household.

-A well-matched temperament plus consistent training, a happy dog, and a happy home.

That's why at DALD, we lay a solid foundation from the start. From early curriculum and gentle handling to temperament testing.

Ready to find your puppy match?

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