Breed standard & Conformation

KENNEL UNION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
REGULATIONS FOR APTITUDE TESTS
INCLUDING DOG’S MENTALITY ASSESSMENT (1993)
(Updated)

SCHEDULE 5(F), Regulation 9.1.5.

Contents

1. Licensing and Holding of APTITUDE TEST and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

2. Management of APTITUDE TEST and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

3. Judging of APTITUDE TEST and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

4. Details to be tested

1. LICENSING AND HOLDING OF APTITUDE TEST and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

1.1 Licensing and Show Regulations

1.1.1 Every application for a Licence to hold an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment shall be made in terms of Schedule 5F.

1.1.2 The Regulations related to licensing and to all other matters to do with shows as set out in Schedule 3, Championship Shows, Schedule 3A International Dog Shows (FCI) and Schedule 4, Non-Championship

Shows of the Constitution of the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA) shall apply to Aptitude Test and Dog Mentality Assessment so far as they can be relevant to Aptitude Test and Dog Mentality Assessment and so far as they do not conflict with the specific terms of these Regulations.

1.2 Scope of Licence

Any Affiliated Club or Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee may apply for and be issued with a Licence to hold an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment. A Club may hold an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment under the same Licence as any other Championship or Non-Championship Show or under a separate Licence.

1.3 Marks and Qualification

1.3.1 Aptitude Test and Dog Mentality Assessment Qualification is subject to the dog having obtained a minimum of (+) 100 marks out of a possible score ranging between (-) 300 and (+) 300, provided it does not fail in the ‘Steadiness to Gunshot’ Test. Qualification as ‘Excellent’ (Ex) which applies only to Aptitude Test, is subject to the dog having obtained a minimum of (+) 200 marks, provided it does not fail in the ‘Steadiness to Gunshot’ Test.

1.3.2 Once qualified at an Aptitude Test a dog may not enter again. A dog who fails may be retested after a waiting period of at least three (3) months. Only one (1) re-test permitted. Only one (1) assessment is permitted for the Dog Mentality Assessment.

1.3.3 The Owner of any dog which has been awarded an Aptitude Test Qualifying Certificate or an Aptitude Test Qualifying Certificate graded ‘Excellent’ (Ex) may use the abbreviation as an appendage to the dog’s registered name. The relevant abbreviations to be used are ‘Apt’ and ‘Apt Ex’. In order to have the qualification placed on any registration records, a copy of the relevant Qualifying Certificate must be submitted to KUSA.

1.4 Eligibility of Dogs for Testing

1.4.1 All dogs may be accepted for entry but only dogs which are registered with KUSA or any National Canine control body recognised by KUSA may be issued with a Qualifying Certificate.

1.4.2 The minimum age for a dog on the day of his participation in the Aptitude Tests is twenty -two (22) months. The minimum age for a dog on the day of his participation in Dog Mentality Assessment is twelve (12) months.

1.4.3 Only dogs which appear to be in good health can take part.

1.4.4 Bitches in season may not take part.

2. MANAGEMENT OF APTITUDE TEST and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

2.1. Test Leader

The management of an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment shall be entrusted to an Aptitude Test Leader, assisted by two (2) Aptitude Test Judges and a minimum of three (3) Marshals, all invited by the Test Holding Club or the Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee (in the case of such Sub-Committee running the Test), and approved by KUSA.

Test Schedules shall be forwarded to the Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee (if one exits in the Province). This Sub-Committee shall report timeously to KUSA if any of the officials would not be acceptable in respect of the two (2) year activity rule (see Regulation 3.1.8 of this Schedule) and supply the necessary proof of the official’s failing attendance record for the past twenty-four (24) months. In the event of no Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee being available, then the Schedule shall be forwarded direct to the National Aptitude Test Sub-Committee.

2.2 Disputes

Any disputed matter requiring a decision during the period of the Test shall be decided by the Test Leader and the Judges.

2.3 Complaints

Complaints lodged by participants will be dealt with in accordance with KUSA Regulations.

2.4 Misbehaviour of Dogs at a Test

Regulations for Aptitude Tests including Dog Mentality Assessment 2

Serious uncontrollable behaviour of a dog at any Aptitude Test or Dog Mentality Assessment may be dealt with at the

discretion of the Test Leader. Any action taken in terms of this Regulation shall be reported to KUSA within seven (7) days.

2.5 Number of Dogs to be Tested

A maximum of nine (9) dogs may be tested per testing day.

2.6 General Attitude and Conduct of the Handlers

All instructions given by the Test Leader must be carried out by the Handler.

2.7 Conditions

It is the responsibility of the Test Leader to ensure that all dogs are put through the Test in the same conditions, as far as this is practical.

2.8 Weather

Cancellation on account of inclement weather of a Test or any part of a Test shall be at the discretion of the Test Leader in consultation with the Judges.

2.9 Starting Time

2.9.1 All participants shall be informed in writing at least one (1) week before the date of the Test/Assessment of their own approximate starting time. They shall be present at the site of the Test/Assessment at least one (1) hour prior to the informed starting time.

2.9.2 In addition to the information as to their starting time, all participants shall receive accurate road directions to the Test site together with practical information on what is expected from them at the Test/Assessment.

2.10 Competition by Officials at Shows

In the event that an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment is held under the same Licence of any KUSA show, the Test Leader and Judges are not to be considered as officials for that show. They therefore may enter or handle a dog in any section of that show on the day/s they are officiating.

3. JUDGING AT APTITUDE TESTS and DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT

3.1 Judging the Aptitude Test and Dog Mentality Assessment

3.1.1 The Judges must strictly adhere to the directives and the key for judging as issued by the ‘Svenska Brukhundsklubben’ (Swedish Working Dog Association) and accepted by KUSA.

3.1.2 Each dog under scrutiny will be graded for each of the following abilities:

1. Approachability Value 15

2. Drive to Hunt Value 8

3. Social Fighting Spirit Value 6

4. Activity Level Value 10

5. Level of Aggression Value 5

6. Defence Value 5

7. Nervous Constitution Value 35

8. Toughness Value 8

9. Eagerness Value 8

10. Steadiness to Gunshot Pass or Fail

The marks gained are calculated by multiplying the value given for each ability by the factor from the Judge’s key relating to the dog’s performance.

3.1.3 The judging of an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment will be carried out by three (3) persons the Test Leader and two (2) Judges, all currently on the respective KUSA registers.

3.1.4 At the completion of each Test the Test Leader will confer with the two (2) Judges. Their joint conclusion will decide whether the dog qualifies for a certificate or not. They will also decide upon the award of ‘Excellent’ or not..

3.1.5 Once the above decisions are reached, the Test Leader will give, publicly, a brief account of the performance and announce the result.

3.1.6 The officiating secretary shall, for a dog which has passed the Test, immediately issue the relevant KUSA Qualifying Certificate which has to be signed by the Test Leader and the Secretary.

3.1.7 No mandatory intervals are required between judging appointments.

3.1.8 In the event of an Aptitude Test Leader or Judge not carrying out an Aptitude Test judging appointment for a continuous period of two (2) years, he/she will be required to (learner) Judge over a two (2) day testing weekend (or equivalent within a period of thirty (30) days) and submit a minimum of eight (8) acceptable judging papers to the Test Leader/s in charge. Upon receipt of all eight (8) judging papers the Test

Leader/s will submit their report to KUSA within fifteen (15) days, informing KUSA of the result. The ‘lapsed’ Test Leader or Judge will only be permitted to resume judging once notification of his/her reinstatement has been received from KUSA.

3.1.9 Appointment of Test Leaders and Judges normally resident outside the area of jurisdiction of KUSA will be considered by KUSA in terms of Article 25.4 of the Constitution.

3.2 Events outside the Regulations

In the event of circumstances arising not covered by KUSA Rules and Regulations, the Test Leader will have discretionary powers to make a ruling, subject to confirmation by KUSA. In such instances, the Test Leader must submit a written report setting out all details to KUSA within fourteen (14) days of the Tests.

3.3 Qualification of Aptitude/Dog Mentality Assessment Test Leaders, Judges and Marshals Candidates

Before a person can be accepted as a candidate for an Aptitude Test training course and examination he must provide proof that he has been involved at least three (3) times in Aptitude Testing e.g. as a steward, a participant or a member of the ‘crowd’ that follows any Test. The preference must go to candidates that are interested in canine behaviour etholody :

- be recommended in writing by a KUSA Affiliated Club

- be accepted by the Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee that organises the Course, or where no such Sub-

Committee, by the Provincial Council or by KUSA,

Regulations for Aptitude Tests including Dog Mentality Assessment 3

- sign an agreement that he will not divulge or make available to unauthorised persons documentation received during the Course and reserved to Aptitude Test Officials. He will also certify that he will not undertake Aptitude Testing and/or Dog Mentality Assessments outside the provisions of this Test Schedule.

Contravention of this Regulation may result in the withdrawal of the relevant licence issued by KUSA.

3.3.2 Courses and Examinations

3.3.2.1 Courses and Examinations for candidate Aptitude/Dog Mentality Test Leaders, Judges and Marshals can only be organised subject to approval by KUSA.

3.3.2.2 Application to hold such a Course and Examination must be submitted by a Provincial Aptitude Test subcommittee or, where no such sub-committee, by the Provincial Council itself to KUSA.

3.3.2.3 Such course and examination shall be held under the direction of two (2) Aptitude Test Leaders. Both persons shall be approved by KUSA and one (1) of whom shall be designated Course Leader (subject to approval by KUSA).

3.3.2.4 The Course shall cover theoretical and practical tuition held over at least seven (7) eight (8) hour days (or equivalent time i.e. fifty -six (56) hours) and to be completed within a maximum period of two (2) months from the first day of the Course. It shall include all matters with regard to the setting up of the different Test/Assessment details, the acting as a Marshal in the different situations, the judging and the leading of Aptitude Tests and Dog Mentality Assessments.

3.3.2.5 During the examination the Panel shall take into account the candidate’s ability to act as a Marshal; the ability to lead a Test and at least ten (10) acceptable individual judging sheets will have to be submitted by the candidate to qualif y as a Judge.

3.3.2.6 On completion of the Examination, the Course Leader shall send to KUSA, by Registered Mail, the names, addresses, daytime and home telephone numbers of the successful candidates.

3.3.2.7 On acceptance by KUSA the names and addresses of the successful candidates, together with the appropriate qualification, shall be published in the Official Kennel Union Journal and they shall be authorised to accept Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment appointments from this time.

3.3.2.8 A relevant KUSA Licence shall be issued and the names of the persons qualifying placed upon the lists of KUSA Registered Aptitude Test Leaders, Judges or Marshals.

3.3.2.9 In the event of a person taking part in a complete Aptitude Test Course and Examination and qualifying as a Marshal but not as a Judge, an additional eight (8) acceptable judging sheets produced as a Learner Judge at an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment within a period of six (6) months after his/her qualification as a Marshal will qualify him/her for recommendation to KUSA to be placed on the register for Aptitude Test Judges. This recommendation must be motivated by the Test Leader/s under whom the Learner Judge officiated and be accompanied by score sheets.

3.3.2.10 Having previously completed a training course, persons on the KUSA register for Aptitude Test Judges with current status, may qualify as an Aptitude Test Leader subject to the following:

- apply in writing to a Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee to be upgraded. This application

must contain proof that the candidate has judged a minimum of fifty-five (55) dogs in Aptitude

Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment prior to the date of his/her application.

- attend an Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment designated by the Provincial Aptitude Test Sub-Committee and being assessed by two (2) Aptitude Test Leaders as a Learner Test Leader on not less than four (4) dogs whilst under the direct control of one of the two (2) Test Leaders present. This assessment shall be completed in one (1) weekend.

Note: For the purpose of any Aptitude Test and/or Dog Mentality Assessment where there is a Learner Test Leader, the KUSA registered Test Leaders appointed to run the Test, will be designated Tutor Test Leaders for the purpose of the assessment of the Learner Test Leaders.

Whilst it is essential that the Learner Test Leader must actually control the Tests, the instantaneous direct intervention of the Tutor Test Leader must be possible at all times in order to prevent any problems for the dog and owner being tested.

4. DETAILS TESTED

The description of these Details and the way in which they are carried out, are laid down in the booklet strictly reserved to KUSA Registered Aptitude Test Officials.

4.1 APTITUDE TEST

1. Willingness to contact

2. Willingness to play

3. Drive to hunt small prey

4. Drive to hunt big prey

5. Attachment to pack leader

6. Attachment to pack leader (with disturbance)

7. Visual surprise

8. Sensitivity to noise

9. Social fighting spirit

10. Dominance

11. Defence

12. Steadiness to Gunshot

4.2 DOG MENTALITY ASSESSMENT (DMA)

	Willingness to contact
	Willingness to play
	Drive to Hunt/Chase response
	Activity
	Play at a distance
	Visual surprise
	Sensitivity to noise
	Defence
	Steadiness to Gunshot

ZTP GUIDELINES

THE ‘ZUCHTTAUGLICHKEITSPRÜFUNG’

The reason and purpose of the ZTP is to determine, in accordance with the Breed aims, the suitable Dobermann for breeding, and to exclude the unsuitable dog from breeding.  ZTP tests can only be judged by ZTP Judges.  All Dobermann bred in accordance with the Breed specifications of the Dobermann Verein e.V. and x-rayed for HD can take part in the ZTP.  The minimum age of participating dogs is 14 months and previously deferred dogs can only be presented again after the period of deferment has elapsed.  Dogs which do not pass on a repeated test are excluded from further tests.

TEST PROCEDURE

	Test of Conformation.
	Character Test – reasons for exclusion are discussed further in the regulations for the conduct of the test.  Fearful and shy dogs are to be excluded from breeding.
	Determination and announcement of ZTP gradings.

GUIDELINES & REGULATIONS FOR THE PRACTICAL CONDUCT OF THE ZTP

Prior to the start of the ZTP, the judge explains to all participants the purpose and aims of the test and the required exercises.  At the start of the test the handler and his dog report to the judge.  The Test Manager confirms the identity of the dog by means of the pedigree and the tattoo/microchip number.  In conversation with the handler, the judge obtains details with regard to training, keeping, possible changes in ownership and environmental influence of the presented dog.

Grading and conformation is in accordance with the guidelines as decided by the ‘Judges Association’ of the DV.  Special attention is paid to working faults such as weak muzzle, long soft back, deficiencies in front and hind quarters as well as bad movement.  Deviations from the maximum and minimum height measurements are to be penalized by reducing the conformation grading.  Dogs with dentition faults such as less than 42 teeth, deviations in the tooth pattern or overshot / undershot bites, are unsuitable for breeding.  The composure of the dog during the dentition examination is to be especially noted (possible pointers to temperament deficiencies).

Minimum Conformation Grading required for Dogs is:-

Very Good (SG)

Minimum Conformation Grading required for Bitches is:-

Good (G)

After the conformation test the judge instructs the handler to lead his dog, on a loose lead, over a distance of approximately 300 paces in different directions over the test terrain.  During the exercise the dog has to encounter 4-6 persons who are either moving or stationary.  Thereafter those people will form a group.  The group formation should not follow a fixed scheme.  Here the judge can and should proceed in a variable manner.  The group should move towards the dog over an appropriate distance or the handler and dog should move within the group.  Whilst in the group it is important that as many natural situations as possible are created such as happens in daily life – greeting by handshake, dropping of an article, opening an umbrella etc.  During this exercise it is important that no threatening influence is directed towards the dog.  Only self-confidence, fearlessness, temperament, conduct control and threshold of irritation, should be assessed here.  Thereafter the handler and his dog proceed to a place, designated by the judge, where he ties his dog – without putting the dog under pressure, eg. by giving a ‘down’ command.  The handler then moves out of sight of the dog.  Whilst the dog and handler proceed to the tie-out location, two shots are fired at a distance of at least 15 paces with a 6mm pistol.  Gun shy dogs are not suitable for breeding.  Sensitivity to gun shots is to be clearly distinguished from gun shyness.  The tie-out location is to be freely accessible from all directions (i.e. away from walls, fences, etc.).

At a distance of 5 to 8 paces, which is reduced to 2 to 3 paces, the judge walks past or around the dog without threatening it.  The behaviour of the dog during the handlers absence is to be especially noted.

Thereafter the handler with his dog leave the test terrain.  The assailant proceeds to the hide as directed by the judge.

Part I

The judge instructs the handler to proceed in a certain direction with his dog on lead.  When directed by the judge, the handler is attacked from the front by the assailant from the place of hiding.  Here the dog should prove his protective instinct and defend his handler.  The assailant threatens the dog only after the latter has taken part in the fight.  The dog is threatened verbally and physically, but does not receive blows with the stick.  The assailant ends the attack when directed to do so by the judge.

Part II

The assailant retreats to a distance of approximately 50 paces.  The handler holds the dog by the collar and being challenged by the assailant, sends the dog.  The assailant attacks the dog, and threatens the dog, but again the dog is not beaten with the stick.  The handler is allowed to support the dog verbally.  When directed by the judge, the assailant stands still.  The handler returns to his dog, puts on the lead and reports to the judge.

Clarification for Part I -

It is imperative that the assailant wears a complete protective suit – pants and jacket.  The stick used for threatening, should not bend too much.  The assailant must be insured for this test.  The hiding place should be chosen with variation so that no schematic practice for local dogs can take place.  Cars, corners or recesses of walls or trees / shrubs can be selected for this purpose.  The assailant may only work as directed by the judge, which means the judge decides on the beginning of the ‘defence of handler’ exercise and on the end of any manwork activity.  The attack always takes place from the front and against the handler, not against the dog.  If the dog counters the attack, then the assailant turns towards the dog and threatens verbally and physically.  The stick may only be used for threatening, but under no circumstances for beating the dog.  The dog may also bite the assailant in places other than the arm.

Clarification for Part II –

It is absolutely imperative that the assailant retreat approximately 50 paces.  The judge directs the assailant as to when the counter attack begins.  Here the assailant must attack the dog verbally and physically.  Again the stick is used only to threaten.  The handler may encourage his dog.

CHARACTER GRADING

The following character gradings are used:

	1A;
	1B;
	Deferred;
	Unfit for Breeding.

1A:

Is awarded to dogs which are in order in their overall image.  A 1A can only be awarded to dogs who create a secure and outstanding impression in their manwork as well as when at rest.

1B:

Is awarded to dogs which in their overall character image can still be justified in terms of the Breed Standard.  A dog shall be graded 1B if his behaviour at rest is acceptable and he shows protective fighting instinct.

Deferred:

Dogs, about whose conduct justifiable doubt exists with regard to strength of character and their suitability for breeding, must be deferred.  Such a dog may not be presented to any other judge for re-testing before a period of three months has expired.

Unfit for Breeding:

Shy, nervous and cowardly dogs cannot be declared fit for breeding.

ZTP is a demanding test of the dog’s character and requires training and commitment from the handler, but is ultimately rewarding.

Additional APT and DMA Information

Important Information for Participants in Aptitude Test and Dog Mentality Assessment

Please note that your dog must NOT be fed 24 hours prior to the test.  The reason for this is that the Aptitude Test / Dog Mentality Assessment consists of a series of situations in which the dog's natural drives and instincts are tested.  In all circumstances the dog's full attention is required and, moreover, many of the situations are stress creating.  A full stomach inhibits normal reactions.

It is also very important that as a participant and a spectator you realise that an Aptitude Test / Dog Mentality Assessment is not evaluated ‘cut-and-dry’ style like an Obedience Test, where "X" marks are deducted for that particular shortcoming.  In each of the items which are tested a Test Leader, assisted by two Judges, will evaluate all reactions from your dog.  These persons have been specially trained and qualified through an examination.  It is their JOINT decision which will be reflected in the report handed out at the end of the test.

Bearing in mind that we wish to evaluate the dog's NATURAL and INHERENT potential, it is evident that we want to see him solving the problems by himself WITHOUT any command or assistance whatsoever by his handler.  You don't have to prove that your dog can 'heel' and 'sit’, you are just going for a walk.  A command must be given ONLY when you are instructed to do so by the Test Leader.  It is very important that you are relaxed and realise that your one hour trip through the bush will be full of fun.  If you are tense you are going to transmit it to your dog. 

Let us now have a look, in correct sequence, at the different items which will be tested. 

Willingness to Contact and to Play 

(Applies to both APT & DMA) 

A domestic dog, like his wild counterparts, is a social, pack orientated animal.  Where the wild pack only consists of congeners, the domestic dog will easily consider humans as a part of his pack.  That is the reason why the dog on test will be introduced to a group of humans who, together with him, will walk and (indirectly) take part in the test.  It is essential that a dog accept such a passive 'group' without fear or aggression.  Once the 'group' has been formed at the beginning of the test, it should not change by persons leaving or other persons joining in.  Based on the evidence that canines forge bonds and learn through playing, it is essential that a well balanced dog respond to an invitation to play; definitely when this invitation comes from his pack leader and even when it comes from a stranger (test leader) who shows his good intentions. 

The "Chase Response" or Drive to Pursue and to Catch Prey 

(Applies to both APT & DMA) 

This is probably the most fundamental drive which is essential for any well balanced canine.  The functioning of the pack and the ability to be an active part of it depends on each of its member's drive to pursue and to catch prey.  It is based on this natural instinct and the way that we can convert it for 'domesticated' purposes, that we can teach our dog to retrieve, to track, to search, to do manwork and much more.  The trigger that we are going to use for this particular test is completely new to your dog.  It is NOT a tennis ball, a retrieve dumbbell, a passing bicycle or running cat.  Lorenz has proven that any fleeing prey 'instinctively' triggers the urge to pursue, to pounce upon, to grab, to kill and to carry.  A dog with a good 'chase response' will perform this scenario to perfection.

The Attachment towards the Pack Leader 

(Applies only to APT) 

It is obvious that a pack animal should be strongly attached to his pack leader and it must be prepared to join him in all circumstances.  To evaluate this, you will be asked to run away through a series of ugly looking dummies while the test leader restrains your dog.  You will have to call your dog's name once before you disappear to a hiding place.  The jury will evaluate your dog's intensity, his possible fear and how he concentrates to solve the problem of joining his handler through the ugly looking targets.

Activity 

(Applies to DMA only) 

In this test situation we want to observe the dog's action or activity when, in his surrounding, nothing occurs.

Distance Play 

(Applies to DMA only) 

To evaluate the dog's tendency to activate himself when invited to play by an unknown person at a distance from his owner.

Sensitivity to a Surprise and to a Sudden Noise 

(Applies to both APT & DMA) 

These two items are very similar.  The idea is to evaluate your dog's reaction to a 'jack in the box' and to a sudden 'loud bang'.  Although a quick dodging reaction is acceptable in both cases, it is essential that the dog overcome this early emotion to go and investigate what it is all about.

Fighting Behaviour towards the Ugly Man 

(Applies to APT only) 

It is our intention to evaluate the dog's 'reactive aggression' in a situation where he is confronted with alternate 'threat' and 'submission' from the part of a marshal (ugly man).  All details of the disguise and the actions undertaken by the ugly man, are based on canine psychology, and are aimed to establish if the dog is prepared to fight or is inclined to flee.  The intensity of his reaction, the demonstration of aggressiveness, eventual flight tendency and the way in which your dog will approach the ugly man once he has stopped his action, will define his social fighting spirit.

Dominance 

(Applies to APT only) 

This is a quality which is required from each pack leader.  It is normal for a steady dog to run for higher office.  Moreover, it is essential that in a Working Dog breeding program emphasis be laid on this type of dog.  If this 'dominance' is not infused on a regular basis one will end up with a multitude of Red Indians without chiefs.  For this particular test we will use an imposing and arrogant staring torso, mounted on a sledge, which will move in an uninterrupted manner straight towards its opponent.  As a reaction we want to see imposing behaviour and aggressiveness, no flight tendency and a frank investigation towards the dummy once it stands still.

Defensive Behaviour 

(Applies to both APT and DMA) 

Two marshals disguised as white ghosts will, without any specific threat, approach against the wind towards the dog.  Ideally the dog should react with a certain amount of threatening behaviour, abstain from flight tendency and, once released, contact the disguised marshals with careful checking.  This is the attitude of a dog which is prepared to defend you.

Sensitivity to the Sound of a Gunshot 

(Applies to both APT and DMA) 

A poor attitude in this item has generally been accepted as disqualifying in any canine character test.  It has been proven that any domestic dog which is genetically 'gun-shy', lacks nervous steadiness.  It is extremely important that you play very actively with your dog while this test is carried out and that you continue to play after the first shot has been fired.  We want to see that the dog continues playing, or immediately regains his activity.

Conclusion 

Based on your dog's performance during the Aptitude Test, the jury will, at the completion of the test, be in a position to evaluate the following specific qualities: 

	approachability or willingness to contact and to play
	prey drive or chase response
	social fighting spirit
	activity level
	level of aggression
	defensiveness
	stress factors
	toughness
	eagerness
	steadiness to gunshot

This will be reflected on an evaluation form.  In the case of a Dog Mentality Assessment, a copy of the judges’ findings will be handed out to the owner.  One must bear in mind that the Mental Test, as it is called in Sweden, its country of origin, evolved in the 1960’s through a team of canine ethologists.  It is based on principles as explained by Konrad Lorenz.  It has been applied to many thousands of dogs.  Without doubt it has proven to be a very helpful tool to define hereditary mental tendencies.  A person, who understands it as such, will surely, after having seen only one dog being put through the test, abstain from unfounded comment.

Compiled by Johan Gallant,

approved by the Aptitude Test Sub-Committee

of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Council of KUSA.