Working Instinct
Advanced foundation test evaluating natural working instincts and breed-typical alertness. Graduates are pre-qualified for BST testing.
£10
Price
10 months
Minimum Age
FWAT 1 & 2
Prerequisite
FWD-3
Title Earned
About This Test
FWAT 3 evaluates natural working instincts and alertness. This advanced foundation test focuses on breed-typical awareness and appropriate responses to stimuli. Dogs demonstrating working aptitude earn the Foundation Working Dog Level 3 (FWD-3) certificate and are considered ready for BST preparation.
Handler guidance is permitted but reduced compared to earlier levels, reflecting the dog's increasing independence and working maturity.
Natural Alertness
7 minutesMovement response
Person walks quickly past at 20 feet distance. Dog should show awareness and interest but remain controllable.
Unusual activity
Helper makes attention-getting movements (waving arms, jumping) at safe distance. Dog may watch, bark, or show interest.
Territory awareness
Dog and handler walk the perimeter of the test area. Dog should show some natural awareness of boundaries.
Mild Pressure Testing
5 minutesStranger approach
Unknown person approaches directly but stops at 6 feet. Dog should be alert but not fearful or aggressive.
Mild startle recovery
Unexpected but safe stimulus (dropping board, opening umbrella). Dog should recover and investigate, or move toward the stimulus with handler.
Working Interest Assessment
3 minutesObject guarding instinct
Dog shows natural interest in protecting handler's belongings when a stranger shows interest.
Basic alerting
Dog naturally alerts handler to an approaching person or unusual activity.
Focus under mild stress
Dog maintains some connection with handler during mildly exciting situations.
Title Awarded Upon Passing
Foundation Working Dog Level 3
(FWD-3)
Dogs completing all three FWAT levels earn the Complete Foundation Working Dog (CFWD) recognition and are automatically pre-qualified for BST testing.