TESTS FOR WABA TITLES

Obedience/Temperament Test for WST/BST 1	WABA OB 1 (Obedience Title)
Protection Test for WST/BST 1	Test for WST/BST 2

Test, Requirements and Information on AD (Endurance Test) Certification

Test, Requirements and information on the Temperament Evaluation (TE)

WST/BST

OBEDIENCE/TEMPERAMENT TEST

THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES ARE TO BE PERFORMED BY ALL DOGS WISHING TO OBTAIN EITHER WST OR BST CERTIFICATIONS.

The dog shall wear either a fur saver or choke chain with leash attached to the dead ring. All leashes and collars must be inspected and deemed suitable by a W.A.B.A. Official prior to beginning each test.

The test is a pass or fail, however, a minimum of 30 points must be achieved in order to pass this test. Additionally, each dog will be evaluated with regard to its temperament as outlined on the test sheet. Due to the infrequency of testing offered, dogs may retest as soon as scheduling permits. They may not test more than once on any given day.

Each individual exercise begins and ends with the basic position (dog at a sit at handlers side). The judge will signal handler to begin and if requested beforehand by the handler, judge may call out the instructions during the test. Any portion of the test can be performed off leash but the leash must be removed prior to the start of each exercise.

EXERCISE 1 - Heeling on leash with gunshots (20 points)

From the basic position handler gives "heel" command. Handler and dog walk straight ahead a minimum of 40 paces (without stopping) execute an about turn and continue back a minimun of 10 paces at a normal pace.  Then, without stopping, handler changes pace, first fast for a min. of 10 paces followed by a min. of 10 paces slow, with no normal paces in between.  Dog and handler then proceed at normal pace for 10 paces and execute a right turn, followed by 10 paces then another right turn, followed by 10 paces and an about turn (left) after which the handler halts. Dog shall automatically sit at all halts, while remaining at handlers left, its shoulder even with the handlers knee (ideally). Handler influence and dogs that forge ahead or lag behind will incur a point deduction. The heel command may be given when changing pace and out of each starting position. The leash is held in the left hand and should be slack at all times. Two gunshots will be fired at 5 second intervals, at a distance of approximately 15 paces, during the first portion of the heeling pattern. Dogs exhibiting gun shyness will be disqualified. Indifference is the ideal reaction, however mild reaction or excitability will not disqualify the dog.

EXERCISE 2 - Heeling through a group

At judge's order, handler heels forward another ten paces, makes a left turn and walks through a group of no less than 4 people, halting in the middle of group. Members will be asked to calmly move in and crowd the dog while dog and handler maintain the basic position. At judge's discretion handler may be asked to heel in a figure 8 pattern around the group. Judge will then dismiss the group.  

EXERCISE 3 - Sit in motion

From the starting point, with the dog in the basic position, the handler walks straight ahead, dog heeling, a minimum of 10 paces and gives "sit" command, drops leash and without stopping, changing pace or looking back, continues forward another 30 paces, halts and turns to face the dog. At judge's order handler returns to dog, resumes basic position and returns with the dog to where the exercise began.

EXERCISE 4 - Down in motion with recall

From basic position dog and handler walk straight ahead a minimum of 10 paces, handler gives "down" command, upon which the dog should quickly lie down. Handler continues without stopping for another 30 paces, stops and turns facing the dog. Double commands, changing pace or looking back, are deemed handler help and will result in point deductions. At judge's signal handler recalls dog. Dog should run to handler, sit directly in front and pause before returning to heel position.

VIEW HEELING PATTERN

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WST/BST PROTECTION TEST

THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES ARE TO BE PERFORMED BY ALL DOGS WISHING TO OBTAIN EITHER WST OR BST CERTIFICATIONS, A VIDEO OF THIS TEST MAY BE VIEWED HERE.

Only dogs which have passed the obedience and temperament test may take part in the Protection Test.

Dogs who fail this test due to training/control problems (ie. refusing to out) may repeat the test. Dogs who fail the courage test portion of the BST may be prohibited from repeating the test upon further review by the WABA. Due to the infrequency of testing offered, dogs may re-test as soon as scheduling permits. They may not test more than once on any given day. There is no limit on re-testing.

Note: Not guarding cleanly, re biting after the out command, and loss of focus during the guarding do not constitute failure but will be reflected in the dogs evaluation.

The dog shall wear either a fur saver or choke chain with leash attached to the dead ring. All leashes and collars must be inspected and deemed suitable by a WABA official prior to beginning this test. The helper may be outfitted with a sleeve or full-body suit, depending on the individual dog's training.

EXERCISE 1 - Surprise attack on handler (out of blind)

Upon signal from the judge, handler takes hold of dog's collar, removes leash and walks toward blind . When dog and handler reach a point of approximately 12 feet from the blind, the judge will instruct the helper to come out of the blind and attack the handler, upon which the handler releases the dog. The dog should immediately engage the helper and continue gripping while being driven by the helper. Dog shall receive two moderate stick hits (padded stick) with an interval of 2 or 3 steps between hits. If the dog fails to grip the helper or comes off at any time, the helper must continue to drive the dog. If the dog returns to the helper and grips, the test will continue. If the dog fails to re-grip, the judge shall stop the test and the dog cannot pass. Upon signal from the judge, handler outs the dog and holds dog by the collar. A total of three (3) out commands are allowed. If the dog refuses to out after first and second commands, handler may, upon judges instructions, approach the dog to give the final out command. This will reflect in the dogs final evaluation. Handler may not touch the dog. Following the out, the dog shall guard the helper until the judge signals handler to pick up dog. While guarding the dog should stay intensely focused on the helper. Barking is not required.

EXERCISE 2 - The Courage Test

Upon signal from judge, handler takes hold of dog's collar. Helper runs away to a distance of approximately 30 yards then turns and runs straight at dog in a threatening manner. Upon judge's signal, handler gives one command and sends dog on helper. Dog should run towards helper immediately, without hesitation, and show full commitment to the bite. Dogs who fail to engage the helper, come off the grip and do not immediately re-engage, or leave the helper during guarding, will not pass the test. Helper drives dog then freezes, upon which judge signals handler to out his dog. After dog outs, judge will instruct handler to pick up the dog. The protection test is completed.

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WABA OB1 (OBEDIENCE TITLE)

THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES ARE TO BE PERFORMED BY ALL DOGS WISHING TO OBTAIN AN OB1 CERTIFICATION

The following exercise will be performed by all dogs wishing to obtain their OB1. Dogs performing the OB1 must be at least 12 months of age.

All dogs will wear either a fur saver or choke chain with leash attached to the dead ring. All leashes and collars must be inspected by a WABA official prior to test.

Each individual exercise begins and ends with the basic position (dog at a sit at left of handler's side). The judge will signal handler to begin and if requested judge will call out instructions during test.

EXERCISE 1 - Heeling on leash

From the basic position handler gives "heel" command. Handler and dog walk straight ahead a minimum of 40 paces (without stopping) execute an about turn and continue back a minimun of 10 paces at a normal pace.  Then, without stopping, handler changes pace, first fast for a min. of 10 paces followed by a min. of 10 paces slow, with no normal paces in between.  Dog and handler then proceed at normal pace for 10 paces and execute a right turn, followed by 10 paces then another right turn, followed by 10 paces and an about turn (left) after which the handler halts.  Dog shall automatically sit at all halts, while remaining at handler's left side, its shoulder even with the handlers knee. The leash should be held in left hand and be SLACK AT ALL TIMES.  Excessive corrections will be deemed grounds for disqualification.

EXERCISE 2 - Heeling through a group

At judge's order, handler heels forward another ten paces, makes a left turn and walks through a group of no less than 4 people, halting in the middle of group. Members will be asked to calmly move in and crowd the dog while dog and handler maintain the basic position. At judge's discretion handler may be asked to heel in a figure 8 pattern around the group. Judge will then dismiss the group.  

EXERCISE 3 - Sit in motion

From the starting point, with the dog in the basic position, the handler walks straight ahead, dog heeling, a minimum of 10 paces and gives "sit" command, drops leash and without stopping, changing pace or looking back, continues forward another 30 paces, halts and turns to face the dog. At judge's order handler returns to dog, resumes basic position and returns with the dog to where the exercise began.

EXERCISE 4 - Down in motion with recall

From basic position dog and handler walk straight ahead a minimum of 10 paces, handler gives "down" command, upon which the dog should quickly lie down. Handler continues without stopping for another 30 paces, stops and turns facing the dog. Double commands, changing pace or looking back, are deemed handler help and will result in point deductions. At judge's signal handler recalls dog. Dog should run to handler, sit directly in front and pause before returning to heel position.

EXERCISE 5 - Long down

At judge's direction handler will be asked to heel the dog to a designated area where the dog will be put on a long down.  Handler will then be directed out of sight of the downed dog for a min. of 60 seconds.  Upon completion handler will return to the dog and heel back to the starting spot.

EXERCISE 6 - Heeling past staked out dog

At judge's direction handler will be asked to heel dog past another staked out dog (reasonable distance). Ideally, dog should remain passive.

EXERCISE 7 - Greeting a stranger

At direction of judge, handler and dog will be asked to heel up to a stranger who will greet and shake the hand of handler. Dog should remain focused but passive.

Any portion of the test can be performed off leash but the leash must be removed prior to the start the exercise. Dogs being tested will not be judged by competition standards (i.e. Schutzhund, French Ring and KNPV). Judges will be looking for control in a practical situation. Excessive corrections from handler will be deemed grounds for disqualification.

This title is not a working or breed title.  It is only an obedience test.

Any dog with an OB1 wishing to obtain a WST or BST title will have to take those tests in their entirety. All appropriate paper work will still need to be submitted with pre-registration, i.e. copy of dogs registration along with min. of 3 gen. pedigree and photo of dog at 3/4 view. 

VIEW HEELING PATTERN

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TEST FOR WST/BST 2

THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES ARE TO BE PERFORMED BY ALL DOGS WISHING TO OBTAIN EITHER WST2/BST2 CERTIFICATIONS, A VIDEO OF THIS TEST MAY BE VIEWED HERE.

EXERCISE 1 - Blind Search

The dog and handler team will enter the field at a pre-determined entrance. Handler will send the dog at the judge's authorization to search. The dog may only begin the search after the handler's command. The handler may watch the dog search but may not move from the spot the exercise began until authorized by judge.  If the dog does not find the decoy/helper within 3 minutes, the exercise will be terminated. Upon sucessful completion of the search, the dog must steadily guard within 4 feet of the decoy/helper. At this point, the judge will allow handler to approach the blind, but handler must stop at a distance no closer than 10 feet away. The decoy/helper will then attempt his first escape. The decoy will escape out of the blind for a distance of 5 to 10 paces and then lockup. The handler will then command the dog to out and guard. After 5 seconds of steady guard, the decoy/helper will attempt another escape (or reattack) and drive the dog giving 2 firm hits with a padded stick. When decoy/helper locks up, the dog is to be commanded to out. Dog could either be recalled or commanded to guard and then picked up by handler. This will end the first exercise. At this point judge dismisses decoy/helper number one.

EXERCISE 2 - Courage Test with Gun Fire

The handler and dog will then heel to a pre-determined spot on the field where they will be confronted by a second decoy/helper. The decoy/helper will run a distance of no less than 30 yards away from team. After turning back toward the team, the dog will be commanded by the handler to engage decoy/helper at judge's signal. The decoy/helper will fire one shot at twelve yards, another at seven yards and the last after the dog commits to the bite. The dog must continue to grip while being driven by the decoy for a short distance. After the decoy/helper locks up, the dog will then be outed and will either be recalled or commanded to guard and then picked up by handler. This will end the second exercise. At this point, judge dismisses decoy/helper two.

EXERCISE 3 - Attack out of the Blind

The handler and dog will approach a pre-determined blind on the field. When the team reaches a point approximately 12 feet from the blind, the judge will instruct decoy/helper number one to come out of the blind and attack the handler. The dog should immediately engage decoy/helper and must continue to grip while being driven. During the decoy's drive, dog will receive 2 firm hits with a clatter stick. After the decoy/helper locks up, the dog will then be outed and will either be recalled or commanded to guard and then picked up by handler.

All dogs testing for the BST/WST 2 must already hold a BST/WST title. As in any WABA working title a maximum of three out commands are allowed per exercise. A zero in any of the three bite exercises will result in failure.

**ALL DOGS MUST WEAR EITHER A CHOKE CHAIN OR FUR SAVER COLLAR. THIS TEST IS TO BE TAKEN OFF LEAD AT ALL TIMES AND DOGS MUST BE KEPT IN A CONTROLLED HEEL DURING AND BETWEEN ALL EXERCISES. ANY CORRECTIONS GIVEN BY HANDLER IMMEDIATELY BEFORE, DURING OR BETWEEN ANY OF THE EXERCISES IS NOT PERMITTED AND WILL CARRY A SUBSTANCIAL POINT DEDUCTION OR POSSIBLE DISQUALIFICATION. AT NO TIME DURING OR BETWEEN THE EXERCISES IS THE HANDLER PERMITTED TO TAKE HOLD OF THE DOG'S COLLAR.**

All exercises will be initiated with the dog in a down or sit position. Dogs that fail to engage the decoy/helper, come off the grip without immediately re-engaging, or leave the helper during the guard portions of the exercise will not pass the test. It is the job of the handler to present his dog to the judge prior to the test and inform him whether dog will be recalled or picked up at the eligible portions of the exercises.

Scoring:
1. Each bite exercise, if perfectly executed, is worth 30 points.
2. Obedience during a perfect exercise is worth 20 points.
3. General outlook for each exercise is worth 10 points.

A perfect exercise is worth a total of 60 points.

A score of 180 represents a perfect routine, a score of 135 points is  required to pass the BST/WST 2 test.

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ENDURANCE TEST(AUSAUERPRUEFUNG)-AD

THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES ARE TO BE PERFORMED BY ALL DOGS WISHING TO OBTAIN AN ENDURANCE TEST-AD CERTIFICATION

General Information

The endurance test (AD) provides documentation that the dog is physically able to endure a certain amount of physical stress without showing significance fatigue. Given the physical structure of the dog, this condition can best be shown through running. Running challenges the heart and lungs as well as the rest of the body. Other characteristics such as spirit and hardness must be present. Successful demonstration of the test will provide proof that the desired characteristics are present in a healthy body. Both sets of characteristics are prerequisites for a useful Working dog breeding program.

The AD test is to be hosted by a local club. The approval to host the event must be obtained by the local club at least four weeks prior to the test. The secretary of the event must be identified at that time and a judge must have been commissioned. Score sheets must be on hand. By accepting responsibility to host an AD the local club agrees, that during the warm summer months, to hold the event only during the early morning or evening hours. The outside temperature must not exceed 22 degrees Celsius (about 72 degrees Fahrenheit).

Entry into the AD test must be made at least eight days prior to the test. Entry fees are to be collected in such a manner that only the AD test expenses will be covered. The entry form must contain: the exact name of the dog, registration numbers, score book numbers, breed of dog any earned training degrees, sex, date of birth and name and address of owner and name of handler.

Participation in the AD test is voluntary. If during the course of the test, the dog or handier is injured in any way, the WABA and the local club cannot be held responsible.

Requirements for Entry

The dog must be at least 16 months old before it is tested, dogs over six years of age must have vet certification stating that the dog is in good health and capable of running 12 miles safely. A maximum of twenty dogs may be permitted to enter on one day with one judge. Should the entry exceed twenty dogs, a second judge must be commissioned or extended to two days. All dogs must be healthy and in good condition. Sick dogs, weak dogs, bitches in heat, bitches in whelp and nursing bitches are not allowed to participate. At the start of the test the handler will report to the judge in a sporty manner with the dog at the heel position. The score book, pedigree and registration papers should be presented at that time. The judge and trial secretary will verify that each dog is in good condition. Dogs that present a tired or listless expression are to be disqualified. The handier will conduct him/herself in a sporty manner. Unsportsman like behavior can result in disqualification from the examination. All decisions made by the judge are final.

Scoring

No points or awards will be given for the examination, only the rating of "Passed" or "Not Passed". Only dogs that pass will receive the AD certification.

Terrain

The test should preferably be run on streets or roads of varied terrain such as asphalt or dirt. The handler will accompany the dog only on a bicycle.

The Test

A.) The Running Exercise - The dogs will be run a total of about 12 miles at an average speed of 7.7 to 9.5 miles per hour.

The dog must be kept on leash on the right hand side of the handler and move in a normal trot next to the bicycle. Overly fast running is to be avoided. The leash must be sufficiently long to give the dog the ability to adjust to any changes in speed. Slight pulling or forging is not faulty but continually failing behind is faulty. ( a Springer is allowed) There will be a short rest period after the dogs have completed 5 miles. During the rest period, the judge will examine the dogs for fatigue & sore feet. Tired dogs or dogs with sore feet will be removed from the test. At the 10 miles mark the judge will again check the dogs. Dogs that are tired or dogs with sore feet will be removed from the test. Dogs will be allowed to move about freely during the rest periods but must be on leash. The last 2 miles will be run and then the judge will again determine if the dog demonstrates tiredness or sore feet due to the running.

The judge and the trial secretary should accompany the dogs on a bicycle or car( if the participants can be seen at all times such as a school track this not required ). The judge will make notes about the condition of the dogs and all deficiencies will be noted. It is necessary that a car follow the handlers and dogs so that tired or sore dogs can be transported. Dogs that lack the proper spirit and hardness and those that show fatigue and dogs that cannot keep up the required speed or need extra time cannot pass the examination,

B.) Obedience - After the running exercise and when requested by the judge, the handlers will assemble with their dogs in the heeling position. Under the direction of the judge, the handlers and dogs will go through the heeling exercise (on or off leash) according to the Schutzhund rules. No gun shots are to be fired. In addition, the judge must verify the psychological condition of the dogs. The method is left up to the judge.

Footnote: The meeting place for the test must be arranged so that all participants arriving by bicycle will cover about the same distance. This should guarantee that additional distances are not covered by some dogs. The handlers must arrive in time to allow the dogs opportunity to relieve themselves prior to the start of the test. It is strictly forbidden to consume alcohol during the test.

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WABA Temperament Evaluation (TE)

The WABA TE is designed to evaluate an individual American Bulldog in order to determine whether that dog shows the proper characteristics of American Bulldog temperament.

The WABA can only determine the temperament of any individual dog on the day the test is given and is not certifying future temperament potential (due to environmental and/or training factors).

The dog must be at least 18 months of age to be evaluated. This evaluation is done with the dog on a fur-saver collar. Corrections are not to be given during this evaluation. Corrections will result in the failure of the dog.

This degree is earned on a pass/fail basis and is judged on the following factors:

1. The ability of the dog to distinguish threatening situations from non-threatening situations.
2. The willingness of the dog to trust their owner's judgement.
3. The willingness of the dog to protect himself and his owner.
4. The confidence level of the dog in unusual situations.
5. The ability of the dog to interact with the world in a safe and stable manner.

Test 1.
A. Dog and handler walk along track casually. Stranger approaches handler and shakes his hand and engages in light, brief onversation. Stranger leaves.
B. Dog and handler continue along their walk. Different stranger approaches in a very happy and upbeat manner. Stranger enthusiastically interacts with dog, petting him and speaking directly to him. Dog must display either neutral or friendly reaction to both strangers.

Test 2.
A. Dog and handler continue to walk casually along track. Assistant lightly tosses plastic milk jug filled with pebbles ten feet in front of handler and dog. Dog must display an inquisitive reaction without fear or aggression.

Test 3.
A. Dog and handler continue to walk along track. At a distance of 20 paces behind the team, Assistant fires 22 cal. Starter pistol.
Dog must display inquisitive or indifferent reaction without fear or aggression.

Test 4.
A. Dog and handler approach Assistant holding a folded umbrella. When team is between 5-6 feet away, Assistant opens umbrella.
Dog may display a startled reaction but must recover immediately without any excessive display of aggression.

Test 5.
A. Dog and handler continue to walk along track. The footing changes. Dog and handler must walk a 20 x 6 foot length of clear plastic (tarp or drop-cloth type).
B. Dog and handler must continue off plastic and directly on to a 10 foot length of unrolled chain-link fencing (no less than 3 foot wide).
Dog must trust owner's direction and quickly recover from any initial fear the dog displayed.

Test 6.
A. Dog and handler continue along track. Assistant approaches on bicycle from behind and passes ringing bell. Dog must be neutral.

Test 7.
A. Dog and handler continue along track, stopping at designated marker. At a distance of 40 feet ahead, Assistant crosses path wearing a raincoat and hood.
B. Assistant proceeds 15 feet toward the dog and handler, approaching in a suspicious manner (unusual gait, low pitched and angry muttering).
C. Assistant proceeds another ten feet toward dog, this time in a very threatening and aggressive manner.

Dog must not show any aggression for situation A.Dog must show an alert posture for situation B. Dog must show willingness to protect in situation C. Any display of cowardice will result in failure.

END OF TEST.

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