--Take a look at the dogs sociability. Look for one who loves people if you want your dog to be your best friend and a big part of your family. Ask to spend time with the dog in a quiet area. If he is wanting your attention and wagging his tail and licking or nudging you, he is a people dog. Also, he should approach your child in a friendly manner. That is a sign that he will be good with children.
--Take a look at the dogs tolerance of physical affection. Pet him for about a dozen times, and you will determine how much he likes to have human contact. Does he want to be pet more or is he pulling away?
--Test the excitability level of the dog. Make noise and jump around for a few seconds. Does he get excited? Does it take a long time for him to calm down? If he is excited, jumping, and taking a long time to settle down, he will need his owner to have patience and give him extra attention. If the dog becomes aggressive or predatory, he will have to go to a home where he can get special training. He would be a great choice for a family with young kids if he gets excited but calms down quickly.
--Check if the dog has separation anxiety. For a few minutes, leave the dog alone. When you come back, observe his behavior. He may suffer from separation anxiety if he seems stressed out or out of breath, and he will require additional training.
--Take a look at the dogs response to new situations. Take him for a walk and see how he reacts to noise and traffic. Is he curious or does he seem scared? Does he want to chase moving objects? If a dog is fearful in new situations, he will need socialization and training, and even sometimes medication, in order to remain him calm. Dogs who chase cars, bicycles or cats are a threat to themselves and others, because they can be killed by traffic or they can injure small animals. These dogs will require a good leash and collar, secure fencing and special training.
