Schutzhund and IPO training programs are designed for dogs that will be used in protection work. Schutzhund and IPO testing is used to distinguish the best dogs for this role.  These dogs then can go on to breed a top line of working dogs.  It is a much disciplined program that only the elite can successfully manage.

History

The world Schutzhund translates to “Protection dog”.  Over 100 years ago in Germany, Von Stephanitz decided to do something about the declining quality of herding dogs.  Many of these dogs existed but good quality was becoming more and more difficult to obtain. He designed a port called Schutzhund.  The first competition was held in 1901. It was a sporting event was used to evaluate the ability of working dogs.  The sheer difficulty of this sport helped to eliminate dogs that did not possess the high skills needed to maintain an elite breed.  Those that excelled at the competitions were used in breeding to once again produce a superior line of working dogs.

IPO is short for Internationale Prüfungs-Ordnung.  In 2004 Schutzhund began to adjust their rules to match IPO, the international standard.  As a result the two types of competitions became the same, the only difference was the governing body.  Thus Schutzhund and IPO are often referred too at the same time as they were basically the same training.  In January 2012 another large rule change came into effect.  The Schutzhund titles 1-3, based on level of dog training was removed.  The FCI (The Fédération Cynologique Internationale) now only recognizes the IPO levels 1-3 titles.

Schutzhund/IPO training and testing are focused the main following abilities. Both the canine and the handler are judged on their skills and their ability to work together.

Obedience

Schutzhund and IPO competitions require extreme discipline and obedience.  The owner must be in full control of their dog at all times during the competition.  This is not an easy task when you consider the enormous amount of distractions that both the dog and the owner face while being tested.  The dog is tested on their willingness to work and their ability to respond to commands while staying focused on the job at hand.

Tracking

The dog being testing during the tracking phase must demonstrate an ability to quickly identify objects and alert their handler then they have been located.  They must stay completely focused on their task of locating the desired articles without being distracted by surrounding factors.

Protection

Protection is probably the most publicly known part of Schutzhund or IPO training.  The dog is to locate and detain a specific individual, the helper.  The dog must first locate them, as they are hidden somewhere on the testing course. Once the helper has been found, the dog must alert their trainer to their location. They must detain the helper on the spot where they have located them.  During testing the helper will test the dog by trying to escape.  When this happens the dog must apprehend them.  The helper wears a training sleeve for this.  It is extremely important to note that helpers are trained professionals that work with dogs regularly. This is not an experiment that should be tried at home.  During this entire phase of testing, the dog must also be fully aware of commands from their trainer. They must release, or apprehend each time they are commanded to do so. They must remained focused on the helper but immediately respond to the trainer.

The Breeds

Levels 1-3 of Schutzhund or IPO training coordinate with the skill levels of the dog being tested.  There is official recognition for each level.   While this is open to all types of dogs, this competition is generally dominated by German Shepherd’s.

It is important to realize that many dogs can perform these tasks but there is a select few who excel at them.  If you are interested in owning a dog from these top blood lines, then there are organizations in your area that can direct you to breeders who work with them.  While this has been misunderstood as an abusive sport, this is hardly the case.  Both dogs and trainers that are involved in Schutzhund and IPO, excel at it because it is what they love to do.  Neither could perform at such a disciplined level if they did not have the love and determination to shine in this field. It takes dedication and commitment from both the trainer and the dog.  A commitment that will create a bond that will last a lifetime.