Test #1: Sight Sensitivity Now is the time to bring out the towel and the string you brought with you.
Tie the towel to the string.
Quickly pull it across the floor in front of the puppy.
Once the animal makes a move towards the towel, stop pulling it.
Let it just sit there and observe his reaction.
He'll be given a low score it he looks at the towel but doesn't react by running up to it.
If he actually runs away from the towel, he'll also receive a low score.
You really don't want him to attack the towel in anger.
Score him low if he does this.
You'll give him a moderate score if he moves toward the towel while you're pulling it, but ignores it once it stops moving.
Score this puppy high if he playfully and enthusiastically chases the towel while it's moving and even tries to pounce on it.
He may even continue playing with the object once it has stopped moving as well.
Test #2: Fetch Take out that ball or squeaky toy.
Show it to the puppy.
Either squeak the toy or bounce the ball in order to get the pup's attention.
Then, once you're sure you've got his full attention, throw the object.
Encourage him to "fetch.
" If he completely ignores the object, score him low.
This is also true if he watches the toy, but doesn't show any interest in moving towards it.
And it goes without saying he gets a low score if he appears frightened of the toy as well.
He gets a moderate score if he shows an interest in the toy, makes a move towards it, then stops.
The puppy gets a top score if he shows a real interest in the toy, chases it and picks it up.
You may even discover he actually brings it back to you - or at least makes an effort to do so.