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Tool oneThe family protection dog scorecard
Give yourself 0, 1 or 2 points on each line. Be harsh.
The eight lines
| Line | 0 points | 2 points |
|---|---|---|
| Time | Under an hour a day | Two or more hours of exercise and training |
| Experience | Never owned a large dog | Years with working or large breeds |
| Space | No yard, no outlet nearby | Secure yard or easy access to open space |
| Household | Many unknowns, frequent changes | Stable routine, agreed rules |
| Housing rules | Not checked | Confirmed in writing |
| Budget | Tight month to month | Savings for vet and lessons |
| Kids and visitors | Chaotic, no supervision plan | Clear rules and supervision |
| Support | Alone | Partner or friends who will help |
Reading your total
- 0 to 6: pause. Work on the low lines, and consider a less demanding dog.
- 7 to 11: promising. Fix the gaps, then talk to a professional.
- 12 to 16: well placed. Move on to the readiness checklist.
The numbers are for thinking, not science.
What to do with a low line
Ask for help. A trainer can often tell you what a realistic first step is, and sometimes the honest answer is to wait or to choose a different dog.
Scored it? Now ask someone who knows dogs.
Send your ZIP code and a few notes. K9PN forwards them to a professional covering your area.
Send my scorecard notes