ATTS To Test Pit Bulls & Bully Breed Temperaments

May 18, 2009 - PRLog -- NW Working Dogs is hosting the ATTS, as part of the NW Working Dogs Expo in St. Helens this June.  

The ATTS stands for the American Temperament Test Society, an organization that tests the instincts of dogs across the country.  Their motto is “A Sound Mind In A Sound Body”.

While the test is designed to evaluate the instincts of all breeds, it is particularly important now for bully breeds.  

Ellena Thomas, head of Pacific Northwest Pit Bull Rescue (www.pnwpbr.rescuegroups.org), is working to educate pit bull owners about this valuable test.

“The temperament test by the American Temperament Test Society is one of our most important tools in fighting breed specific legislation.  We at Pacific Northwest Pit Bull Rescue recognize this and encourage every responsible bully breed owner to test their dog at this important event.”

According to Thomas, breed specific legislation is affecting the rights of citizens to own what she says is a very misunderstood breed.  Thomas feels that the TT is one of the most beneficial certifications available to pit bulls and other bully dogs, and strongly urges owners to seek out and participate in these tests.

The national passing average for the TT for all breeds is 81.9%.  However, historically the pit bull has done better then average.  Detailed statistics are available on the ATTS site.  (www.atts.org)  American Pit Bull Terriers are passing by 85.3%.  The American Staffordshire Terrier is close behind, with 83.9%.  Contrast these with the scores of the  Golden Retriever (84.6%) and the German Shepard Dog (83.7%).

This year’s test is being sponsored by Portland Tails Magazine.  Virginia Dunn of NW Working Dogs says, “We all agree that temperament testing is extremely important, especially for our bully breeds.  We appreciate Tails for sponsoring the ATTS, and lending their support to get the word out for these much needed tests.”  (www.portlandtails.com)

“Last year, our ATTS had 33 dogs.  15 of those were pits, and those dogs succeeded in achieving a very high passing average.  We hope for even better this year.” says Dunn.


The NW Working Dogs Expo is being held on June 13th & 14th at the Columbia County Fairgrounds in St. Helens, OR.  It is open to the public as well as all breeds.  Activities include the Protection Dogs International (PDI) NW Regional Trials, IABCA Conformation Show, ATTS Temperament Test, Canine Good Citizen Testing, Bitework & Decoy Clinics, and a Raffle For Rescue.  The complete list of activities can be found at http://www.nwworkingdogs.com

Vending and sponsorship opportunities are available.

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NW Working Dogs is a group of breeders, trainers, and dog enthusiasts dedicated to helping dogs become well trained effective family guardians and protectors. We train in obedience and personal protection, compete in Protection Dogs International (PDI), and hold the annual NW Working Dogs Expo, a comprehensive dog event that brings together working / protection trials, conformation, and temperament testing. Find out more about NW Working Dogs, upcoming trainings and events by visiting: www.nwworkingdogs.com