The Working Dog Sport, currently approved by AKC, is designed to enable dogs of applicable breeds to demonstrate the physical and mental abilities needed to perform scent and protection work, while maintaining a high level of control and a strong degree of obedience. It also offers a valuable tool for the breeder who wishes to maintain these characteristics in their breeding program.

Sponsoring of events to demonstrate the progress that has been made in breeding for type and quality, and/or for practical use, stamina, and obedience, is part of the mission of AKC. The American Bouvier des Flandres Club is one of four parent clubs that may offer this program for dogs 18 months and older who meet other requirements of physical and mental soundness.

Modeled after rules of protective or police-type sport programs (Schutzhund, IPO, etc.) used in many areas of the world, the AKC Working Dog program features tracking, obedience and protection at three levels. The AKC's program provides a well formulated evaluation of a dog's character, intelligence and desire to work. To obtain a WDS level title, a dog must earn passing scores at all three exercises at a single trial - often on a single day.

For a limited time and in order to firmly establish the program in the shortest possible time, a "grandfathering" procedure allows for some titles earned in related sports mentioned above to be accepted within the WDS program. For instance, if your bouvier has earned a BH title, it will be eligible to enter a WDS trial at the Master Dog 1 level. Likewise, if your bouvier is already titled at the Schutzhund/IPO 1 level, it can compete at an approved WDS trial for the Master Dog 2 title.

WDS trials may be sponsored only by the Parent Clubs (eg. ABdFC) of the four approved breeds. A WDS scorebook must be obtained from AKC. Those dogs having earned approved titles for "grandfathering" may submit proof of title to permit recognition of such title(s) by WDS.

In order for ABdFC to sponsor WDS trials (at annual Specialty or other ABdFC sponsored/sanctioned events, the Parent Club must have AKC approved WDS Trial Committee members on site and responsible for conduct of the trial. Judges must be those approved by AKC and Parent Clubs are invited to submit names, etc. of Judges for consideration/approval.

ABdFC members who are interested in the newly approved sport and wish to be involved in an official trial capacity are urged to contact the club's Working Dog Sport Committee Chair or the club President.
 

Charles Price