K 9
G U I D ANC E​
K 9
G U I D ANC E​
Schutzhund. Explained.
Schutzhund. Explained.
Tests of physical and mental abilities, Schutzhund is a thrilling sport for both dog and trainer. While open to all breeds of dogs, Schutzhund was created a​s a breed test SPECIFICALLY for the German Shepherd Dog. Historically, Schutzhund is used to verify a dog's anatomical, behavioral, and practical quality. However it is becoming just as much a hobby with challenges that dog owners (new and experienced) are thrilled to overcome. It is a great way to bond with your dog, while giving the dog the stimulation and purpose it desires.
The Three Phases of Schutzhund
Tracking
Tracking
Whether Search and Rescue, Police Work, or a hobby, tracking is a valuable skill. Schutzhund trains dogs to follow a scent along a path of footprints, and identify abnormalities (called markers) placed along the path. Once a dog identifies the markers, they must indicate to their trainer their discovery. Their success in the trial is dictated by the accuracy of their track and number of markers identified.
Obediance
Obediance
The obedience phase of the trial consists of heeling (on and off leash), sit, down, and stay. In addition to the basic obedience, the dog must retrieve the dumbbell over a one meter jump and a six foot wall. The trial ends with a send away. Where the owner points and gives the command, and the dog sprints to investigate in that direction. During parts of the trial, the judge uses the sounds of gunfire to test the dog's focus and courage.
Protection
Protection
Scutzhund teaches a unique form of protection training. The focus being the dog's and handler's relationship. During the protection phase, a dog can only attack if the owner gives the command or they are attacked directly. Furthermore, the dog must be able to stop attacking the moment the trainer gives the command. In short, the dog must switch between complete restraint and unrelenting force.
Working Dog Titles of Schutzhund
Working Dog Titles of Schutzhund
Ausdauerpruefung
Endurance Test (AD)
Ausdauerpruefung
Endurance Test (AD)
Dog goes for a 12 mile run then preforms an obedience routine. The handler accompanies the dog (usually on a bike) then after a short break demonstrates their ability to heel, sit, down, and recall.
Begleithund
Companion Dog (BH)
Begleithund
Companion Dog (BH)
A test of the dogs basic obedience and temperament. Certifies the dog behaves properly in the presence of people and dogs, and ensures the dog listens to their handler.
SCH/VPG/IPO/ZVV
The General Tests
SCH/VPG/IPO/ZVV
The General Tests
All four abbreviations are trials which test the dogs disciplines in tracking, obedience, and protection. These abbreviations have three different levels of increasing difficulty, 1, 2, and 3.
Fährtenhund
Tracking Dog (FH)
Fährtenhund
Tracking Dog (FH)
The advanced tracking title. Has two levels FH1 and FH2. FH2 titled dogs are considered to be master trackers.
KoerKlasse
Breeding Certification (KKL)
KoerKlasse
Breeding Certification (KKL)
The dog is evaluated for proper structure, temperament, and courage. The dog also needs to have their BH, ScH1 (or equivalent), and AD to receive their KKL.
Herdengebrauchshund
Herding dog (HBH)
Herdengebrauchshund
Herding dog (HBH)
A dog with the HBH title is able to keep live stock contained to an area and redirect them if they step out of their bounds.
Polizei Hund
Police Dog (PH)
Polizei Hund
Police Dog (PH)
The title for a dog whose obedience, tracking and protection skill meet all the criteria for police work.
Blindenhund
Blind Guide Dog (B1H)
Blindenhund
Blind Guide Dog (B1H)
This title is awarded to dogs with excellent temperament, obedience, and situational intelligence. They demonstrate an ability to remember basic routes, stop at crosswalks, recognize an oncoming vehicle, etc.
Diensthund
Service Dog (DH)
Diensthund
Service Dog (DH)
Service dogs are working dogs that are trained to help with a particular disability. They must react even to involuntary actions of their owner, and predict how a situation may affect their owner.
