The track consists of numerous turns and includes a certain number of small, man-made items. The tracking test is performed on a track (natural surface like grass or dirt) laid earlier by a track layer. The tracking phase starts with a temperament test to confirm the dog’s mental soundness, which includes a close inspection on a loose leash to ensure that the dog is neither shy nor aggressive. So, let’s take a closer look at these phases. You’ve probably memorized the three Schutzhund phases by now – tracking, obedience, and protection. The requirements are also explained in detail when you join any Schutzhund club in your area. The requirements for each phase and level of Schutzhund are clearly stated on the FCI website but you can also check the DVG and USCA websites. It is the most challenging Schutzhund test in all phases, except for tracking that has advanced degrees called FH1 and FH2. The dog has to be at least 20 months old and possesses previous titles.

SchH3 (Advanced) – This is the master’s degree of Schutzhund, comparable to IPO3 and IGP3.All three phases are more difficult and require extensive physical endurance, control, and agility. SchH2 (Intermediate) – Same as IPO2 and IGP2, this title is awarded to dogs who are at least 19 months old and have the SchH1 degree.He needs to pass the basic obedience, tracking, and protection tests. To get this title, the dog has to be at least 18 months old. SchH1 (Novice)– This is the most basic of the three levels, and it is comparable to IPO1 and IGP1.There are three basic Schutzhund titles awarded to dogs and their handlers: Once a dog earns the BH degree, he can enter Schutzhund trials and earn titles. The BH test includes basic obedience, such as heeling on and off-leash, downs, sits, and recalls, as well as his reactions to strange noises, crowds of people, cars, and other dogs. This test evaluates the dog’s temperament and his behavior around people. However, before a dog can earn a Schutzhund title, he must first pass a temperament test and earn the BH degree. Different Schutzhund titles and their requirements Source: / IGĭogs that enter Schutzhund trials are awarded titles for passing all three training stages (tracking, obedience, protection). Schutzhund clubs give owners and dog trainers a chance to be a part of a group of people that shares common interests. The sport also serves as a valuable breeding tool, keeping the breed’s quality high. It is a tremendous physical, mental, and social outlet for dogs. Schutzhund offers many benefits to dogs and dog owners. While all dog breeds can compete in FCI events, protection breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Belgian Malinois’ still dominate the sport. The sport of Schutzhund on international stage is governed and regulated by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) since 2004, after two German organizations called the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) and the Deutscher Hundesportverein (DHV) gave up the control.įCI sets protection dog standards and the rules for Schutzhund trials. It is the latest version of the sport with tiny, if any, differences. That means that IGP is the updated version of IPO, both of which are basically the same as Schutzhund training.Īnother sport that is fully comparable to Schutzhund is American Schutzhund. As we already mentioned, Schutzhund is competitively known as IGP, but it was known as IPO before that. American Working Dog Association (AWDA)Īll these clubs revolve around Schutzhund and similar protection sports.

United Schutzhund Clubs of America (USCA).Many Schutzhund clubs are operating in the United States, including: However, it is the most popular in other European countries, Australia, Canada, and the USA. Today, the sport is open to all breeds and available around the world. German Shepherd dogs still have to acquire Schutzhund titles and possess a breed survey, a certificate of endurance, a confirmation rating, and hip x-rays before they can be bred in Germany.Īfter a while, Schutzhund training became open to other German protection breeds, such as Dobermans, Boxers, Rottweilers, and Reisenschnauzers ( Giant Schnauzers). Schutzhund was developed in the early 20th century in Germany, where it was used as a suitability test for German Shepherds. The long-lasting history of Schutzhund training 7 Common misconceptions about Schutzhund.6 Schutzhund training guide – a few basic tips.4 Schutzhund trained dogs – what can they do?.3 All about the three phases of Schutzhund.2 Different Schutzhund titles and their requirements.1 The long-lasting history of Schutzhund training.

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