Why Temperament-Focused Breeding Matters at Stokeshire
A New Era in Ethical Dog Breeding
Gone are the days when the perfect dog was determined solely by the symmetry of its coat markings or the arc of its tail. At Stokeshire, we’re leading a new wave in ethical dog breeding—one that places temperament at the forefront of everything we do.
Whether you’re looking for a loving family companion, a loyal service dog, or a therapy pup with a calming presence, temperament-focused breeding ensures that your four-legged friend is suited for your lifestyle and emotional needs.
| Criteria | Traditional Breeding | Temperament-Focused Breeding |
|---|---|---|
| Selection Priority | Appearance, pedigree | Temperament, behavior, adaptability |
| Predictability of Behavior | Less predictable; variable outcomes | High predictability; stable outcomes |
| Suitability for Families | Mixed suitability | High suitability; tailored to family lifestyle |
| Training Ease | Variable ease | Easier training; puppies eager to learn |
| Service & Therapy Roles | Inconsistent outcomes | Consistent, reliable suitability |
| Long-Term Health & Welfare | Potential for genetic & behavioral issues | Reduced behavioral & health-related risks |
Why Temperament Matters More Than Ever
What is Temperament?
Temperament is more than friendliness—it includes personality, adaptability, and how a dog responds to the world around them. It’s one of the most important factors in whether a dog will thrive in a household, therapy setting, or service role.
The Science Behind It
According to the American Kennel Club (2024), temperament is significantly heritable. This means a calm, emotionally resilient dog isn’t just a product of training—it often starts with thoughtful, ethical breeding.
Desirable Traits in Temperament-Focused Dogs
Sociable and eager to engage with humans
Low reactivity to new stimuli
Emotionally adaptable and resilient
Strong bonding tendencies
How We Assess Temperament at Stokeshire
The Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test
We use the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test (PAT) to evaluate:
Social Attraction – comfort around people
Dominance/Submissiveness – behavioral tendencies
Stimuli Response – reaction to sudden noises or new objects
Why This Matters
These early assessments guide us in:
Pairing future breeding dogs with complementary temperaments
Matching each puppy with a family best suited to their energy and personality
Our Ethical Breeding Practices
1. Genetic Testing and Health Screening
We screen for neurological and hereditary issues that could affect behavior, ensuring healthier, more stable puppies.
2. Early Socialization Programs
From day one, puppies are exposed to diverse stimuli—children, noise, guests, and household life. This reduces fear and encourages confidence.
3. Selective Breeding for Behavior
We pair dogs with complementary temperaments to pass down calmness, focus, and emotional resilience.
4. Thoughtful Puppy Placement
Our placement process considers:
Family lifestyle and pace
Existing pets and children
Home environment and routine
The Benefits of Temperament-Focused Breeding
For Families
Enjoy a smoother household dynamic with dogs that adapt easily, bond quickly, and behave predictably.
For Service and Therapy
We produce puppies ideal for roles requiring calm, focus, and intuition.
For the Dogs Themselves
Dogs matched to the right homes and raised ethically live less stressful, more fulfilling lives.
A Brighter Future Through Temperament
At Stokeshire, we believe temperament-focused breeding isn’t just good science—it’s good stewardship. We're shaping the future of canine companionship, one emotionally intelligent puppy at a time.
Want to learn more or meet our temperament-tested puppies? Contact us today.
References
American Kennel Club. (2024). The importance of breeding for temperament in modern dog breeding. Retrieved from [https://www.akc.org]
National Institute of Health. (2024). Genetic influences on canine behavior: Insights from behavioral science. Retrieved from [https://www.nih.gov]
Perfect Pooches. (2023). Why breeding for temperament is important. Retrieved from [https://www.perfect-pooches.com]
The Atlantic. (2024). Dogs are entering a new wave of domestication. Retrieved from [https://www.theatlantic.com]
Veterinary Practice. (2025). New study calls for dog breeding practices to prioritize welfare over appearance. Retrieved from [https://www.veterinary-practice.com]