The WAE, or Working Aptitude Evaluation, is an interesting event. Its purpose is to test whether a Doberman Pinscher demonstrates the characteristics required of a dog to be a stable companion and resolute protector. There are a number of components to the test.

One of the first components is to see how the dog reacts to meeting a friendly stranger.

When the handler indicates it OK for the person to approach, the dog is expected to not act aggressively.  A similar test, reaction to a neutral stranger, expects the dog to be aware of the person and be alert.

Other tests include reacting to a startle, such as someone opening an umbrella, or a strange noise from an unseen source, and even a gun shot.

The tests also expect a dog to be able to walk on unusual surfaces, such as an X-panel or plastic sheet.

Probably the hardest part of the exam is testing how the dog reacts to an aggressive stranger, somebody who obviously means harm to the dog or handler.

 

   

A Doberman Pinscher is expected to be protective of its handler and stand up to the hazard. Once the hazard is removed, it is expected that the dog can be brought back under control and calmed.

 

 

What isn’t preferred is for the dog to  cowar and place the handler in harms way.

Successful participants receive a Working Aptitude Certificate, which is a recognized achievement by the Doberman Pinscher Club of America and a requirement to obtaining other higher levels of achievement.