the basics
The WMU Video Database is the ONLY evaluation of its kind in the world. Unlike the countless other “protection” tests available, the APT is neither scored nor graded.
WMU strongly believes the responsibility of determining aptitude rests with the owners and breeders, not with a third party. That is why EVERY test taken is recorded and the video made available through our online database.
This allows owners and breeders to view dogs of interest. It eliminates breed bias, evaluator bias, and discrepancies between different styles of decoy work because these factors will be evident in the video.
The test is simple and requires no training.
WMU strongly believes the responsibility of determining aptitude rests with the owners and breeders, not with a third party. That is why EVERY test taken is recorded and the video made available through our online database.
This allows owners and breeders to view dogs of interest. It eliminates breed bias, evaluator bias, and discrepancies between different styles of decoy work because these factors will be evident in the video.
The test is simple and requires no training.
APT Scenarios
Encounter with a person:
The dog will be brought into the testing area on leash or harness. The handler may put the dog under an obedience command if he/she chooses.
A person will approach the dog and handler in a neutral manner. He will address the handler in a matter of fact way and chat for 10 seconds. He will then move on.
Reaction to a loud noise:
After the neutral person leaves the testing area, a cap gun will be fired twice no more than 30 yards away.
Encounter with an aggressor:
After a minimum of 30 seconds following the shots, the handler will secure the dog to the tie out. The handler may give the dog a command if he/she chooses. The handler may stay with the dog, or chose to fall back. Once the dog is secure a decoy will approach the dog in a threatening manner. The decoy may or may not wear equipment and/or carry a whip, or stick if he/she chooses. There may no contact between the dog and the decoy. The decoy will actively threaten the dog in a manner of his choosing for no longer than 30 seconds.
The dog will be brought into the testing area on leash or harness. The handler may put the dog under an obedience command if he/she chooses.
A person will approach the dog and handler in a neutral manner. He will address the handler in a matter of fact way and chat for 10 seconds. He will then move on.
Reaction to a loud noise:
After the neutral person leaves the testing area, a cap gun will be fired twice no more than 30 yards away.
Encounter with an aggressor:
After a minimum of 30 seconds following the shots, the handler will secure the dog to the tie out. The handler may give the dog a command if he/she chooses. The handler may stay with the dog, or chose to fall back. Once the dog is secure a decoy will approach the dog in a threatening manner. The decoy may or may not wear equipment and/or carry a whip, or stick if he/she chooses. There may no contact between the dog and the decoy. The decoy will actively threaten the dog in a manner of his choosing for no longer than 30 seconds.
Recording Setup
For the sake of continuity, following the recording setup standard is critical. Videos that do not follow these guidelines may not be posted, but no certificate will be given.
Personnel required:
A testing secretary, steward, a neutral person, a decoy, and a camera operator are the minimum required to conduct the test. The steward will time and que the scenarios and camera work. He/she is also responsible for ensuring proper and safe testing equipment is used.
Camera:
The camera must be capable of shooting a minimum of 720p (iphone 5 or later).
The camera must be stationary (no hand held). The use of a tripod is recommended, though any stationary mount can work.
Lighting:
There must be plenty of light, a daytime exterior is recommended. Camera must be set to shoot in the same direction as the light source to avoid flaring or extreme silhouetting.
Testing Area:
Specifications coming soon.
Equipment:
A secure tie out and back tie line are mandatory, as is a stop watch. A blind is recommended.
Personnel required:
A testing secretary, steward, a neutral person, a decoy, and a camera operator are the minimum required to conduct the test. The steward will time and que the scenarios and camera work. He/she is also responsible for ensuring proper and safe testing equipment is used.
Camera:
The camera must be capable of shooting a minimum of 720p (iphone 5 or later).
The camera must be stationary (no hand held). The use of a tripod is recommended, though any stationary mount can work.
Lighting:
There must be plenty of light, a daytime exterior is recommended. Camera must be set to shoot in the same direction as the light source to avoid flaring or extreme silhouetting.
Testing Area:
Specifications coming soon.
Equipment:
A secure tie out and back tie line are mandatory, as is a stop watch. A blind is recommended.