Schutzhund - IGP

Schutzhund, now known as IPO (Internationale Prüfungs-Ordnung), and more recently as IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshund Prüfungsordnung), is a demanding and multifaceted dog sport that originated in Germany. The term "Schutzhund" translates to "protection dog" in German, and the sport was initially developed to test the suitability of German Shepherd Dogs for police and military work. Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive test of a dog's training, obedience, and versatility.

IGP consists of three main components:

1. Tracking (Fährte): This phase evaluates a dog's ability to track a scent trail. Handlers lay a track with various turns and surfaces, and the dog must follow it while demonstrating focus, precision, and scent discrimination.
2. Obedience (Unterordnung): This component assesses the dog's obedience and control under various conditions. It includes exercises such as heeling, recalls, and various positions. Dogs must respond promptly and accurately to their handler's commands, showcasing a high level of training and discipline.
3. Protection (Schutzdienst): The protection phase evaluates the dog's courage, strength, and ability to protect its handler. It includes exercises like a courage test, where the dog faces a threatening person, a search for a hidden person, and a "hold and bark" scenario where the dog guards the handler while under simulated attack.

Each of these phases is designed to assess the dog's natural abilities and training in areas essential for police and working dogs. The overall goal is to identify dogs with the right temperament, intelligence, and physical attributes for tasks like search and rescue, police work, and protection.

It's important to note that IGP is not just for German Shepherds; dogs of various breeds and sizes can participate. The emphasis is on evaluating the dog's abilities rather than conforming to breed standards. Additionally, IGP provides an opportunity for handlers and their dogs to build a strong bond through training and teamwork. The sport promotes responsible dog ownership, highlights the importance of well-behaved and trained dogs, and fosters a sense of community among dog enthusiasts.