Evaluation Guide
Understanding Our Evaluations
Every dog is an individual.
Our evaluation process helps us identify strengths, developmental trends, natural tendencies, and placement suitability. While no evaluation can predict the future with complete certainty, our goal is to provide buyers with meaningful information that goes beyond appearance, pedigree, or first impressions.
Watch behavior across varied conditions.
Document strengths and developmental trends.
Match each dog to the right home and role.
Why We Evaluate
We are trainers first.
For more than 25 years we have evaluated dogs for companionship, sport, protection, working roles, and active family homes. Our evaluations are designed to:
- Understand the individual dog
- Identify strengths
- Identify developmental trends
- Improve placement decisions
- Help buyers make informed decisions
Our goal is not to find the "best" puppy.
Our goal is to find the best match between dog and owner.
Understanding The Scoring System
Each trait is scored on a 1–10 scale relative to age-appropriate development.
Currently limited, inconsistent, or rarely observed.
Trait is present and developing normally.
Consistently displayed and above average for age.
Trait is strongly developed and frequently observed.
Evaluation Categories
Tap any category to read what we observe and how it shows up in real life.
Important Buyer Notes
Understanding Puppy Development
- Evaluations are snapshots in time.
- Puppies continue developing physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.
- Scores should be viewed as information, not guarantees.
- Development, genetics, training, environment, and life experiences all contribute to future outcomes.
- No single score determines a puppy's future.
- Our placement recommendations consider the entire dog rather than any individual trait.
Our Philosophy
Selection Is Everything
Our goal is not to identify perfect dogs.
Our goal is to understand each individual and help place them into environments where they can succeed.
We believe honest evaluations, thoughtful observation, and proper placement create better outcomes for both dogs and owners.
The purpose of these evaluations is not to sell puppies.
The purpose is to help buyers make informed decisions and understand the dogs they are considering.