What Is a Dog Temperament Evaluation?

These evaluations are an important step because:

• They protect your dog from stressful or unsafe situations.
• They ensure that playgroups are balanced, fun, and positive for all dogs involved.
• They help staff learn your dog’s unique needs and preferences from day one.
• They give owners confidence that their dog is in an environment where safety and happiness come first.

At Playtime Pet Resort, we treat every dog like family. That means:

• Highly trained staff who understand canine body language and communication.
• Low staff-to-dog ratios so each pup gets individual attention.
• Clean, secure play areas with strict cleaning protocols.
• Personalized care tailored to your dog’s personality and play style.

What to Expect During the Temperament Evaluation

Our temperament evaluation lasts at least six hours to give your dog time to settle in and show us their true personality. During this day, we assess how your pup responds in different situations, including quiet one-on-one time to group play with new friends.

Our temperament evaluation lasts at least six hours to give your dog time to settle in and show us their true personality. During this day, we assess how your pup responds in different situations, including quiet one-on-one time to group play with new friends.

Pre-Evaluation Requirements

Before the evaluation begins, owners must provide:

• Current vaccination records, including a rabies certificate.
• Current PA dog license.

Arrival and Initial Assessment

• Anxious dogs may spend 30–60 minutes in a suite to decompress.
• Confident dogs go directly to the play yard.
• If a dog remains unable to enter the yard, owners will be contacted to discuss next steps.

One-on-One Settling and Handler Interaction

• The yard manager reviews your onboarding questionnaire in Gingr before introductions.
• A handler spends time with your dog, watching body language and comfort levels.

Gradual Dog Introductions

• We begin with a small group of dogs with varied play styles.
• Introductions happen one at a time to prevent overstimulation.
• Once comfortable, your dog is integrated into the larger group.

Boarding Evaluation

• Includes feeding a meal to check for behaviors such as resource guarding or stress.

Evaluation Outcomes

After a full day of observation, your pup’s evaluation will end with one of three outcomes: 

• Pass: Confident body language, friendly with other dogs, able to self-regulate, and comfortable being handled. Your pup is ready for daycare or boarding.
• Re-Evaluation Needed: Displays some uncertainty or excitable behaviors but shows potential with more time. Recommended for shy or nervous pups who may need additional sessions.
• Not a Good Fit: Persistent unsafe or highly stressed behaviors such as growling, resource guarding, or rough play without recall. Owners are informed immediately and guided toward our private play or training options.

Special Cases in Temperament Evaluations

Every dog is different, and our evaluation process adapts to unique circumstances:

Puppies

Puppies typically begin their evaluation in the small yard, where they can build confidence in a gentler setting. However, this varies depending on the pup’s size and temperament.

If a pup’s size or energy level makes the smaller yard unsuitable, our team may move them to the big yard for re-evaluation. Anytime a group change occurs, owners are notified right away so they know exactly how their dog’s day is going.

Siblings

When siblings come in for evaluation, they are tested separately at first to make sure each dog can handle group play on their own. Once both dogs have completed their individual assessments, they are then observed together to see how they interact as a pair. 

If one or both struggled alone, we’ll re-evaluate them side by side to check for possessive or protective behaviors.

Dogs Switching Yards

Sometimes a dog may be better suited to a different play group, but they must pass an evaluation in each yard before making the switch. Our staff consults with a yard manager before any move. After all evaluations are complete, your pup can switch between yards as needed.

Report Cards and Owner Communication

We believe in keeping you fully informed about your dog’s experience. Every temperament evaluation comes with a detailed report card that includes:

• At least five pictures of your dog during evaluation.
• A short written summary of behaviors, comfort levels, and play style.
• Notes on any friends made during group play.
• Five adjectives describing your pup’s personality.
• Clear mention of any concerns or recommended next steps.
  

If your dog does not pass, we will call you immediately. Owners may also request to speak directly with the evaluator.

Benefits of Dog Temperament Evaluations

Dog temperament tests provide peace of mind for both owners and staff. Benefits of a thorough evaluation include:

• Safe Group Play: Protects all dogs by ensuring compatibility.
• Personalized Care: Allows staff to adjust play styles, enrichment, and supervision.
• Reduced Stress: Creates calmer, happier dogs in daycare and boarding.
• Confidence for Owners: You know your pup is in a secure, well-matched environment.
• Stronger Relationships: Gives staff insight into your dog’s unique personality, making future stays even smoother.
  

Whether your pup is with us for daycare or overnight boarding, temperament evaluations ensure a positive experience from the very beginning.

Schedule Your Dog’s Temperament Evaluation Today

A safe, happy group play experience begins with the right introduction. At Playtime Pet Resort, our dog temperament evaluations are designed to set every pup up for success. We offer:

• Flexible Scheduling: Call ahead or book online with your Gingr account.
• Resort Tours: Schedule a tour of our facility every day between noon and 3 p.m.
• Personal Support: Our team is always available to answer questions.
• Caring Staff: We treat your pup like one of our own.
  

Get started today by visiting our website or giving us a call.

Dog Temperament Evaluation FAQs

1) Do I need a temperament evaluation for dog boarding if there is no group play?

Yes. Even if your pup doesn’t participate in group play, we still require a temperament evaluation. The goal is to assess how your furry friend behaves with other dogs as well as our staff, and we check for behaviors such as resource guarding. 

2) How long does the evaluation take?

Dog temperament evaluations last at least six hours to give dogs time to settle in and show us their true personalities. Some dogs may need one or two additional sessions.

3) What happens if my dog needs more than one evaluation?

We’ll schedule follow-up sessions to give your pup the best chance to succeed. Many dogs gain confidence after additional time with our staff.

4) How much does the service cost?

Temperament evaluations are $35 per dog.

5) Is an evaluation required for training or grooming services?

Temperament evaluations are required for training services, as well as group play and boarding with group play. However, an evaluation is NOT required for our grooming services

6) Can I speak directly with the staff member who evaluated my dog?

Yes. Owners are always welcome to speak with the handler or yard manager who worked with their pup.

7) Do you provide online or virtual evaluations?

No. Because evaluations depend on observing real-world interactions in our secure play areas, they must be conducted in person.