Working Aptitude Evaluation (WAE)

In order to earn a Working Aptitude Certificate (WAC), a Doberman must demonstrate the characteristics required of a dog to be a stable companion and resolute.  The Working Aptitude Evaluation (WAE) is a standardized temperament test created by the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA) to evaluate an untrained dog’s natural stability, courage, and judgment.

To determine if a dog possesses the natural temperament of a stable companion and resolute protector without relying on flashy obedience or prior training, and dogs that pass earn a Working Aptitude Certificate (WAC).

  • Dogs must be at least 18 months of age.
  • Must be registered or have an Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP)/PAL number with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
  • No prior training is required or preferred, as the test measures pure instinct and reactions to unexpected stimuli.

Core Exercises
The evaluation puts the dog through real-world scenarios to test how quickly they assess a situation and recover from surprise:
Neutral Stranger: Evaluates how the dog reacts to a calm, unfamiliar person.
Friendly Stranger: Tests sociability and welcoming behavior.
Hidden Clattering (Alert and Discover / Investigation): Measures curiosity, nervousness, or courage when confronted with unexpected visual and auditory stimuli.
Gunshot or Loud Horn: Assesses nerve strength, stability, and recovery time after a sudden loud noise.
Threat/Protection Test: Evaluates clear-headedness, courage, and discernment under pressure when a simulated threat is introduced.