Put Your Puppy to the Test

There's no foolproof way to pick a great family dog. But there are some techniques you can use that may help. When you visit a litter of pups, wade into it and sit down. The puppy who runs over to you and can't seem to get enough cuddling is probably a good bet.

Many breeders recommend using the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test to find the one that's right for your family. (Minimum testing age is seven weeks, and accuracy declines with age.) Following is a partial list of criteria:

• Gently hold the puppy upside down on his back. Does he squirm uncontrollably or try to bite? You want him to look at you, or try to lick you and wiggle just a little.

• Hold him under his belly a foot off the ground. Again, you want the guy who puts up only the mildest objection.

• Crouch beside the standing puppy and gently stroke him from head to back. He should cuddle or squirm but not do somersaults or make frontal attacks to your thigh.

• Clap your hands and see if the pup comes to you. He should be attracted to the sound. Walk away and see if he follows.

• Throw a ball. He should at least go over to look at it.

Dogs are hard work, but I remain convinced they can be wonderful for children. For Matthew, who loves to play, Ginger is, well, Ginger to his Fred Astaire. She dances with him, plays ball with him and has a working relationship with his beloved cat. For Jacob, full of tumult and change, a loving dog is the equivalent of a quick trip to Reno, where excess and extravagance are not frowned upon.

Both boys have learned not only empathy for a creature who depends on their care but also a surer knowledge that they can protect and love her, and Ginger is glad to let them.