The recent tragedies involving dogs and children underline
the potential dangers of certain breeds but also help to
highlight the importance of knowing your own pet's temperament
type. Understanding the relationship between pet and owner
and being able to successfully communicate the "ground
rules" are key to developing a strong positive bond.
To this end, we include an adolescent health check when
the puppy is 6 months of age at Fairfield to hopefully identify
behavioural tendencies and advise owners accordingly.
Saffy is a Cairn Terrier and as such she was originally
bred to be tenacious, confident and equipped to dispatch
small mammals with the minimum of fuss. Whilst all these
"attributes" may be packaged into a smaller and
more manageable size than her original ancestors her temperament
type remains the same. Consequently, her understanding of
the "house rules" are imperative for a positive
lifelong relationship with her owner.
Fortunately, her owner has had many years experience of
this breed and fully understands their cantankerous capabilities...........especially
as they grow older. Whilst Saffy is currently scoring highly
at puppy training classes she has yet to appreciate the
value and pleasures of being groomed.................a terrier
indeed!
Terry
Dunne BVMS, Cert SAO, MRCVS
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