Animals, like humans, have distinct personalities, and this applies to pets like dogs and cats. Even lower order creatures like fishes or geckos are claimed to have differing personalities, something that we don’t doubt. This unique personality trait is what endears our pets to us, because we know they are different and we can’t simply get another one off the shelf; they are all simply different.
Experts say that a puppy starts to develop a discernable personality when it is around 7 weeks old. While each individual dog does have their own character, these can be broadly grouped into seven personality archetypes as well. Let’s see if you recognize them in your puppy? If you are choosing a puppy, knowing the types of dog personalities can help provide a better foundation with regards to this long term relationship.
Wanna Please type
This type is always keen on pleasing you and as such, they are always looking at your face, hardly noisy, and trying to read your opinion. They are the easiest to train as they are usually very cooperative, but they need good and consistent direction from you.
Timid type
Dogs like these are so timid that you may think they were abused. They just lack any self-confidence and need a lot of patient nurturing to build up their self-esteem. In a dog pack, they are the followers, never the leaders. Only choose such puppies if you are sure you are up to the task of building up their character and self worth.
Bully type
Contrary to the negative connotations associated with the term “bully”, these are in fact spirited and determined dogs who can lead a pack *and they are usually the pack leaders), but at the same time, can also be jerks and bullies. As puppies, you will notice them pushing away their siblings during mealtimes, and stealing their toys. Their strong and often selfish character could be a challenge for you, so only if you can control your one, it’s better to choose another puppy.
Angel type
These will grow up into really friendly and sweet natured dogs. They are eager to please too, but they are just so friendly with anything and anyone, so much so that their siblings take advantage of them. They are always wagging their tails, and probably won’t make very good guard dogs later on in life. But that’s OK if you like doting on them, because they will reciprocate all the love you give them and are very homely and content.
Just Chillin type
Take them out on a walk and they will forget that you are even holding the leash. They go where they want, sniff anywhere they want, and basically do what they want. Then once in a while, they will look back at you and wonder why you don’t have any directions for them. They are usually quiet, not active, and prefer sleeping or lazing around most of the time. If you like relaxing too, and are not particularly interested in training or controlling them, they make good family dogs, especially around young kids.
Rebel type
This type can hold grudges because they are more sensitive and intelligent than the average dog. Disciplining them always requires tact and sensitivity on your part. Otherwise, they are fun loving and quick-witted dogs who like taking up the supportive role to the alpha dogs later on in the pack, but don’t like being pushed around all the time. Being number 2 in the pack is good enough for them. They are suitable for people with older children or active people who can lead them gently, yet firmly.
Independent Thinker type
It’s easy to recognize this type, because they are happy being alone by themselves. Give them a toy and they will happily play by themselves without needing others. As puppies, they may seem to mature faster than the others, and always have an independent and stoic streak of their own. They don’t make very good companions in homes with kids because they prefer their own company, so only get one if your home is quiet and peaceful, so that they can continue being the independent souls that they are.
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