Schutzhund dog training, also known as IPO (International Prüfungs-Ordnung) or IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshunde Prüfungsordnung), is a sport and method of training for working dogs. The training involves a series of exercises that test a dog’s abilities in three main areas: tracking, obedience, and protection work.

Tracking: The tracking portion of Schutzhund training involves testing a dog’s ability to follow a scent trail and locate a hidden object. The dog is tasked with following a track that has been laid by a person, and must locate the object at the end of the track. This portion of the training helps to develop a dog’s natural tracking abilities and can be used for a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, hunting, and law enforcement.

Obedience: The obedience portion of Schutzhund training is focused on teaching the dog to follow commands quickly and accurately. The dog is trained to respond to a series of commands, including sit, stay, come, and heel, among others. The obedience exercises are designed to test the dog’s ability to follow commands under different circumstances and distractions. This portion of the training helps to improve a dog’s behavior and makes them easier to manage both in and outside of the training field.

Protection Work: The protection work portion of Schutzhund training involves testing a dog’s ability to protect its handler from an attacker. The dog is trained to bark, bite, and release on command, and is tasked with protecting its handler from an attacker in a controlled environment. This portion of the training helps to develop a dog’s natural protective instincts and can be used for a variety of tasks, including law enforcement and personal protection.

Schutzhund training is a demanding and challenging sport that requires a lot of hard work and dedication from both the dog and the handler. The exercises are designed to challenge the dog’s physical and mental abilities and help to develop their natural working instincts. Schutzhund training is often used as a method of training for working dogs, including police and military dogs, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs.

In addition to being a sport and method of training, Schutzhund training can also be a way to strengthen the bond between a dog and its handler. The training involves a lot of teamwork between the dog and the handler, and can help to improve communication, trust, and obedience.

Read more:Schutzhund Dog Training: What You Need to Know