Schutzhund Training
Schutzhund (IPO/IGP): the dog sport made up of tracking, obedience and protection, and how dogs are prepared for it.
Schutzhund is a German word meaning “protection dog”. It began as a test developed to assess the character and breeding suitability of the German Shepherd, and over time grew into an international dog sport for German Shepherd owners and trainers. Today the same sport is also known as IPO and, more recently, IGP. On this site we use the name most people know it by: Schutzhund.
Three parts
The test is made up of three disciplines:
- Tracking: The dog calmly and willingly follows a track laid in advance by the handler and indicates the articles along it.
- Obedience: Work such as off-leash heeling, sit, down, stay, recall and retrieving over a hurdle assesses how well the dog cooperates with the handler and how keen they are.
- Protection: The dog’s courage, nerve and the handler’s control are tested.
The dog’s natural behavior, reactions and communication with the handler are at the heart of this sport. When the work is done properly, the bond between dog and trainer grows stronger.
Who is it suitable for?
Schutzhund is not for every dog; it is a sport for dogs that are physically and mentally suited to it and highly motivated to work. Suitability is decided by looking at the dog’s age and character. Protection work must be done under an experienced trainer and in controlled conditions; we do not recommend attempting it at home or with an inexperienced person.
Basic obedience comes first
Before moving on to the test disciplines, the dog’s basic obedience must be reliable. That is why most dogs and owners start with obedience training. For the general framework of protection work see Protection Dog Training.
How we work with you
Once we have got to know your dog, we prepare a plan that suits them. Whether your goal is to compete in the sport or simply to enjoy working with your dog, we involve you in the process. Please get in touch for details.
Frequently asked questions
- Are Schutzhund, IPO and IGP the same thing?
- Yes, they are the names of the same dog sport at different times: first Schutzhund, then IPO, and today IGP.
- What parts does Schutzhund have?
- It has three parts: tracking, obedience and protection.
- Is every dog suited to Schutzhund?
- No. It is a sport for dogs that are physically and mentally suited to it and highly motivated to work. Suitability is decided by looking at the dog’s age and character.
- Can I do protection work at home?
- We do not recommend it. Protection work should be done under an experienced trainer and in controlled conditions.