Phase "A": TRACKING
A track is laid by someone else and its course unknown to the handler: at
least 400 steps, 3 legs, 2 corners (approximately 90°), and 2 scent articles
supplied by the tracklayer and left on the track for at least 30 minutes;
time allowed for completion: 15 minutes.
Holding to the track: 80 points
Finding articles (10 points each): 20 points
General regulations:
The trial judge or his designee determines the course and suitability of each
track at the available tracking fields. The tracks must be designed differently.
For example, it may not be that the corners and dropped articles in each track
are identical. The starting point of the track must be marked well by a sign
or marker stuck in the ground on the left side of the starting point.
The sequence of the participants is drawn by lots by the judge after the tracks
are laid.
The tracklayer has to show the articles to the judge or someone answerable
to him, before the start of the track. Only well “aged” scent
articles left for at least 30 minutes on the track may be used. The track
layer lingers briefly on the starting point and then goes with normal steps
in the direction designated by the judge. The corners are also made at normal
pace. The first article is dropped after at least 100 steps on the 1st or
2nd leg, at the judge’s direction. The second object is dropped at the
end of the track. The articles must be placed while moving. After dropping
the last article, the tracklayer must continue walking some steps in the same
direction. Different articles must be used, made of leather, textile, or wood
[any two of these]. The article length must be a maximum of approximately
10 cm [about 4 inches], with a width of 2-3 cm [a little over an inch], and
a thickness of 0.5-1 cm [less than half an inch]. They may not stand out in
color much from the terrain on which they are dropped. All articles are to
be visibly numbered, so that the numbers on the articles agree with the numbers
that the judge and trial manager have. During the laying of the track, the
dog must be out of sight.
The judge and assistants or companions may not interfere with the work of
the dogs in the area in which the team (handler and dog) is searching.
A) Voice Command
Example of a command to begin searching: Such! (pronounced almost like “sook”.)
The command to "search" is permitted at the start of the track,
and after the first article.
b) Performance of the Exercise
The handler brings his dog to the track. The dog may search freely, or on
a 10-meter long line. The 10-m tracking lead can lie over the back, at the
side, or between the front and/or hind legs. It can either be directly fastened
to the “dead ring” of the approved collar or to a harness (allowed
is a chest harness or a Böttger harness, without additional straps.
After being summoned for their test, the dog handler reports with his dog
to the judge near or at the starting position, and tells the judge whether
his dog will pick up the articles or indicate their position. Before the track,
during the search, and throughout the total exercise, there must not be any
psychological pressure given to the dog. On instruction of the judge, the
handler leads the dog slowly and steadily to the starting point and tells
the dog to search. The dog must right away take the scent intensely, steadily
and with a deep nose. The dog must continue then with deep nose, in a constant,
steady tempo, intensely following the course. The handler follows his dog
at the 10-meter distance, whether at the end of the tracking lead or doing
a free search (without lead or line). The tracking lead may sag, as long as
it is not dropped by the handler. The dog must work out the corners surely.
After the corner, the dog must continue searching at the same speed. As soon
as the dog has found an article, it must immediately pick it up or convincingly
indicate its location without influence from the handler. The dog may remain
standing when picking it up, sit, or come to the handler. Going on with the
article, or picking it up while lying down, are faulty. The indications can
be accomplished by lying, sitting or standing (or any combination of these).
If the dog has indicated or picked up the article, the handler drops the tracking
lead and proceeds to his dog. By lifting of the articles, he shows that the
dog has found them. After this, the handler picks up the tracking lead again
and continues the track with his dog. After performance of the track, the
handler is to show the recovered articles to the judge.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
The speed of search is not a criterion in the performance appraisal, as long
as the track work is intense, steady, and convincing, with the dog showing
a positive search attitude. Exuberance (without leaving the track) is not
faulty. Inattentiveness, high nose, voiding (urinating or defecating), circling
at the corners, constant encouragement, using the line or verbal assistance
during the track or at the articles, is faulty, as is incorrect picking up
or indicating of the articles; points are deducted accordingly. If the dog
leaves the track more than the length of a tracking lead, the track is halted;
the exercise is over. If the dog leaves the track and is held back from doing
so by the handler, the judge will order the handler to follow the dog. If
this order is not followed, the tracking is to be halted by the judge. If
the end of the track is not reached within 15 minutes after arriving at the
starting point, the tracking is halted by the judge. The performance up to
that discontinuance is rated.
If a dog both indicates and picks up articles on the track, this is faulty.
Only the scent articles that were exhibited and approved at the beginning
are allowed. Indication faults are recorded in connection with the evaluation/scoring
of the respective legs.
No points will be awarded if articles are neither indicated nor picked up.
The distribution or allotment of points for holding to the track on each leg
will be made according to length and degree of difficulty. Evaluation of the
respective legs is made by the judge after consulting his notes and adding
the points. If the dog does not actively search (if it dwells in place for
too long without searching for the track), the exercise can also be stopped
then, even if the dog is still on the track course.
IPO/SchH/VPG 2, Phase "B": OBEDIENCE
Exercise 1: Off-lead Heeling 10 points
Exercise 2: Sit out of Motion 10 points
Exercise 3: Down and Recall 10 points
Exercise 4: Stand out of Motion 10 points
Exercise 5: Retrieve on Flat Ground 10 points
Exercise 6: Retrieve over 1-m Hurdle 15 points
Exercise 7: Retrieve over the Incline Wall 15 points
Exercise 8: The Go-out and Down 10 points
Exercise 9: Lying Still with Distraction 10 points
Total: 100 points
General Regulations:
The judge gives the order for the beginning of an exercise. Everything following,
such as turns, stopping, changes of pace, etc. are executed without further
order.
The voice commands are established in the rules (see SchH/VPG-1 rules). Orders
to the dog are spoken in a normal voice, and are short, single-word commands.
They can be given in any language; however for each activity they always must
be the same. If, after the third command, a dog does not execute an exercise
or a part of an exercise, the respective exercise is to be stopped without
a score for that part. For the recall, the name of the dog can be used in
lieu of the action command, but not both. The name of the dog together with
any voice command is considered as double voice commands.
In the starting position (“basic position”) for heeling, the dog
sits close and straight at the left side of the handler so that the shoulder
of the dog is close to the knee of the handler. Each exercise begins and ends
with the basic position. Setting up the basic position is allowed only once
at the beginning of any exercise. A short praise is allowed after each finished
exercise, but only in the basic position. After that, the handler can take
a new starting place and, for the dog, a new basic position. A clear time
interval (approximately 3 seconds) must be observed, in any case, between
praise and a new beginning.
From the basic position, the so-called “development” is worked
out. The team must take at least 10, and at most 15, steps before a voice
command is given for the performance of any different part of an exercise.
Between the parts of an exercise and at its conclusion, clear pauses (approximately
3 seconds) are to be observed before the delivery of a subsequent command.
This includes the pauses before and after taking up a new basic heel position,
as well as when returning to the dog that is sitting, standing, or lying at
a distance. When picking up the dog, the handler can step in front of, or
go around behind, his dog to the basic position.
The off-lead heeling is to be maintained while moving between exercises or
their parts. The dog must also accompany the handler when getting the dumbbell
for the retrieve. A loose grip or playing with the dumbbell is not allowed.
The about-face is to be executed by the handler pivoting to the left. During
the about-face, the dog can either finish (go to heel) behind the handler
or cross in front, the execution of which must be the same every time.
When commanded to heel, the dog can either go around behind the handler or
turn in front to get to the basic position. This “finish” must
be in the same style each time.
The solid 1-meter hurdle [no soft or brush top] has a height of 100 cm and
a width of 150 cm. The incline wall is composed of two climbing walls of 150
cm width and 191 cm length, joined at the top. These two walls stand on the
ground with the bottoms set apart so that the vertical height of the A-frame
is 180 cm. The whole surface of the incline wall must be furnished with a
skid-proof covering. There are 3 horizontal climbing ledges on each side,
approximately 24/48 mm (1X2 inches) in cross-section. All dogs in any competition
must climb the same or equal obstacles.
For the retrieves over both jumps, only wooden dumbbells are allowed (weight:
about 650 grams or 1.4 pounds). The dumbbells provided by the club organizing
the trial must be used by all participants. The dumbbell may not be given
the dog before throwing it.
If the handler should forget an exercise, the handler receives a request by
the judge to perform the missing exercise, without point deduction.
1. Off-lead heeling 10 points
a) Command
An example of a command for heeling or going to basic position: Fuß!
(Fuss!)
This voice command is allowed only when starting the exercise and changing
pace.
b) Performance of the Exercise
The handler proceeds to the judge with his dog heeling off-lead, and introduces
himself and his dog. From the basic position, and upon the handler’s
voice command to heel, the dog must attentively, joyfully, quickly, and closely
remain at heel, with its shoulder blade always even with the handler’s
left knee and without leaning or crowding. When the handler stops, the dog
must automatically and independently sit straight and promptly without any
help. Beginning the exercise, the handler and dog go 50 steps straight ahead
without stopping, perform the about-face, and return 10 to 15 steps at a normal
brisk pace, followed by running, and then the slow walk and again the normal
speed, with each respective segment at least 10 steps and no more than 15.
The transition from the run to the slow pace must be executed without intermediate
steps. The different paces must differ clearly in the speed.
Continuing in the normal walking speed, the team executes at least one right
turn, one to the left, and one about-face turn. A stop/sit is to be shown
at least once in this portion, and during the normal pace. At one point in
the exercise, while the handler and dog are in the normal pace, straight-ahead
free-heeling routine, two gunshots (approximately 6 mm caliber) are delivered
within 5 seconds at a distance of at least 15 paces from the team. The dog
must be indifferent to the gunshots. At the end of the exercise, and as indicated
by the judge, the handler goes with his dog into a moving group of at least
four persons.
The handler/dog team must go around some of the people, making one circle
to the right and one to the left, and include at least one stop/sit in the
group. It is the judge’s option to demand a repetition [for example,
if the team stops too far from any person in the group]. The team then leaves
the group and takes up the basic position for the start of the next exercise.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
If the dog forges or heels wide (is not in the correct relationship to the
handler’s left side), if it eliminates [urinates or defecates], hangs
back, is slow or hesitates in heeling or sitting, requires additional voice
commands or body language help, or shows poor attention in the heeling or
turns, and/or shows lack of spirit, the dog is penalized accordingly.
2. Sit out of Motion 10 points
a) Commands
Examples of Commands for the Fuß (heel) and sit commands: Fuß
and Sitz
b) Performance of the Exercise
Starting in the basic position, the handler proceeds straight ahead with his
dog [heeling off leash, as always]. After 10-15 steps, the dog must immediately,
and facing in the same direction, sit down when the voice command for the
"Sit” is given, without the handler interrupting his pace, changing
speed, or looking back. After another 30 steps the handler stops and immediately
turns around to face his calm and steadily sitting dog. Upon order by the
judge, the handler returns and stations himself at the dog’s right side.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors in the “development” (general working out of the heeling),
slow to sit on command, and/or restless, inattentive sitting are penalized
accordingly. If the dog lies down or stands instead of sitting, 5 points are
deducted.
3. The Drop (Down) with Recall 10 points
a) Commands
Commands to heel, lie down, come on the recall, and finish (go to basic position):
Fuß, Platz, Heir (or the call name of the dog), and Fuß again.
b) Performance
From the basic position the team marches straight ahead. After 10-15 steps
the dog must immediately drop to a lying position, facing straight ahead,
when the voice command for "lie down" is given. Without changing
pace or looking back, the handler continues walking. After an additional 30
paces the handler stops and turns around immediately to face his calmly lying
dog. Upon instruction by the judge, the handler calls his dog with the command
to come (“Hier” or the name of the dog). The dog must approach
joyfully, quickly, and directly; it must sit closely and straight facing the
handler. On the command to heel to the "basic position", the dog
must quickly go to the left side of its handler, and sit straight with its
shoulder even with the handler’s knee.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Any errors in the development, slow to lie down, being restless during the
down, slow to perform the recall (come on command), incorrect position of
the handler (such as wide stance), faulty sit, and/or poor finish, will result
in points being deducted accordingly. If, after the command to "Platz",
the dog stands or sits instead of lying down, 5 points are deducted.
4. Stand out of Motion 10 points
a) Commands
Commands to heel, stand, sit: Fuß, Steh, Sitz
b) Performance of the Exercise
From the basic position the team marches straight ahead. After 10-15 steps
the dog must, on the command to stand (Steh!), stop immediately and remain
standing in the direction of travel. The handler continues walking, without
changing pace or looking back. After an additional 30 paces the handler stops
and turns around immediately to face his calmly standing dog. Upon instruction
by the judge, the handler goes directly back to his dog and places himself
at its right side. After approximately 3 seconds, and upon instruction by
the judge, the dog must sit quickly and straight on the “Sitz!”
command.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors in the “development” (general working out of the exercise),
refusal or slowness to stand on command, a restless, inattentive stand, coming
toward the handler, sitting before the handler fully returns, and/or slow
to sit at the conclusion of that exercise are penalized accordingly. If the
dog lies down or stands instead of sitting, 5 points are deducted.
5. Retrieve on the Flat 10 points
a) Commands
Commands for retrieving, releasing, and returning to basic position: Bring,
Aus, Fuß
b) Performance of the Exercise
From the basic position the handler throws a dumbbell (weight 1,000 gram)
about 10 paces away. The command to "Bring" may be given only as
soon as the dumbbell lies still. The dog, which has been steady and unrestrainedly
sitting beside its handler, must run on the "Bring" command to the
dumbbell, picking it up immediately and bringing it to his handler; all must
be done quickly and directly. The dog must sit closely and straight in front
of and facing its handler and must hold the dumbbell steadily in the mouth
for a pause of approximately 3 seconds, then release it to the handler when
commanded to "Aus" (let go). The handler must be able to reach the
dumbbell with an outstretched arm. After the delivery, he holds it motionless
at his right side. On the command to "Fuß", the dog must quickly
go to the left side of its handler with its shoulder even with the handler’s
knee and sit facing straight ahead. The handler may not leave his position
during this exercise.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors in the basic position, slow running out, picking up the dumbbell, slow
coming back, dropping the dumbbell, playing or chewing with it, sitting crooked
in front of or beside the handler, errors in the finish (Fuß), and movement
or wide stance by the handler are penalized accordingly. Throwing the dumbbell
too short, and helps (extra commands/movements) by the handler, even if he
does not change his position, are likewise reflected in point deductions.
If the handler leaves his location before the conclusion has been attained,
the exercise will be rated as Faulty (0 – 6.5 points). If the dog does
not retrieve, the exercise is to be scored as 0 points.
6. Retrieve over the 1-meter Hurdle 15 points
a) Commands
Sample commands for jumping, retrieving, releasing, and finish: Hopp, Bring,
Fuß
b) Performance
The handler stops with his dog in the basic position, at a distance of at
least 5 paces before the hurdle. From this position the handler throws a dumbbell
(weight 650 gram) over a 100-cm high hurdle. The command to jump may only
be given as soon as the dumbbell lies still. The dog that has been sitting
steadily and unrestrained beside his handler must jump on command (such as
Hopp); the "Bring" command must be given while the dog is first
going over the hurdle. The dog must quickly and directly run to the dumbbell,
take it immediately, and promptly jump back over the hurdle and bring the
dumbbell to its handler — again, doing so quickly and directly. The
dog has to sit close and straight in front and hold the dumbbell steadily
in its mouth; after a pause of approximately 3 seconds, the handler takes
the dumbbell with the release command, "Aus". The dumbbell must
be grasped from within reach of the handler’s out-stretched arm, and
then held at his right side. On the command to heel to the basic position,
the dog go quickly to the left side of its handler and sit facing straight
ahead, with shoulder blade even with the handler’s knee. The handler
may not leave his position during this exercise.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors such as in heeling (basic) position, slow jumping, slow going, when
taking the dumbbell, slow returning, dropping the dumbbell, playing with or
chewing the dumbbell, the handler in wide stance, and poor sit or heel position
(finish) will result in appropriate deductions. Striking the hurdle while
jumping will cost up to 1 point, and putting feet on the hurdle will have
up to 2 points deducted.
Point allocation for retrieve over the hurdle:
Jump going away Retrieve Jump coming back
5 points 5 points 5 points
A partial score for the exercise is only possible if at least two of these three parts are completed.
Jumping and retrieving flawlessly = 15 points
A jump going away or one returning not executed, but the dumbbell flawlessly brought back = 10 points
The jumps in both directions being flawless, but the dumbbell not brought back = 10 points
If the dumbbell lands considerably to the side, or where the dog would have a bad problem seeing it, the handler (after asking or being told by the judge to try again) can throw the bringing wood without point cancellation. The dog must remain sitting while the handler gets the dumbbell.
Handler helps, even without changing location, are given appropriate point
deductions. If the handler leaves his position before the conclusion of the
exercise, it is rated as Faulty.
7. Retrieve over the 180-cm Incline Wall 15 points
a) Commands
For jumping, retrieving, releasing, and going to basic position: Hopp, Bring,
Aus, Fuß
b) Performance
The handler stops with his dog in the basic position, at a distance of at
least 5 paces before the hurdle (wall). From this position the handler throws
a dumbbell (weight 650 gram) over the incline wall.
The dog that has been sitting steadily and unrestrained beside his handler
must, on command (such as Hopp), climb over the incline wall (the "Bring"
command only being given while the dog is going over the wall), quickly and
directly run to the dumbbell, immediately take it, and immediately return
over the incline wall and bring the dumbbell to its handler, this being done
quickly and directly.
The dog has to sit close and straight in front and hold the dumbbell steadily
in its mouth; after a pause of approximately 3 seconds, the handler takes
the dumbbell with the release command, "Aus". The dumbbell must
be within reach of the handler’s out-stretched arm, and after being
taken, held at his right side. On the command to heel to the basic position,
the dog go quickly to the left side of its handler and sit facing straight
ahead, with shoulder blade even with the handler’s knee. The handler
may not leave his position during this exercise.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors in heeling or the basic position, slow jumping, slow going, errors
when taking the dumbbell, slow returning, dropping the dumbbell, playing with
or chewing the dumbbell, the handler changing position, or errors in the dog’s
sit or heel positions will result in appropriate deductions.
Point allocation for retrieve over the wall:
Jump going away Retrieve Jump coming back
5 points 5 points 5 points
A partial score for the exercise is only possible if at least two of these
three parts are completed.
Jumping and retrieving flawlessly = 15 points
A jump going away or one returning not executed, but the dumbbell flawlessly
brought back = 10 points
The jumps in both directions being flawless, but the dumbbell not brought
back = 10 points
If the dumbbell lands considerably to the side, or where the dog would have
a bad problem seeing it, the handler (after asking or being told by the judge
to try again) can throw the dumbbell again without a point deduction. The
dog must remain sitting while the handler gets the dumbbell.
Handler helps, even without changing location, are given appropriate point
deductions. If the handler leaves his position before the conclusion of the
exercise, it is evaluated as unsatisfactory.
8. The Go-out with Lying Down on Command
a) Commands
Commands for the go-out, drop, and sit: Fuß, Voraus, Platz, Sitz
b) Performance
From the starting point and basic position the team goes straight ahead in
the designated direction, the dog off-lead. After 10-15 steps the handler
gives the dog the command for "the go-out" (Voraus!), simultaneously
raising a single arm and standing still. At this, the dog must move purposefully,
straight, and fast for a distance equivalent to at least 30 human paces, in
the direction indicated. On the judge’s order, the handler gives the
command to "lie down" (Platz!), whereupon the dog must lie down
immediately. The handler may hold his arm up as a directive, until the dog
has lain down. On another order by the judge, the handler goes to his dog
and steps to its right side. After approximately 3 seconds, and after the
judge indicates, the handler gives the command to sit [or Fuß], and
the dog must sit up quickly and straight in the basic position.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors in the development, continuing with the handler, too slow running the
go-out, deviating too far to the side, going too short a distance, lying down
with hesitation or prematurely, restless while lying, and/or prematurely getting
up when the handler goes to the dog, are given appropriate point deductions.
9. Long Down under Distraction 10 points
a) Commands
Commands for the long-down exercise: Fuß, Platz, Sitz
b) Performance
At the beginning of phase "B", when another dog is to perform its
routine, the handler takes his dog to a place designated by the judge, drops
the dog from the basic position with the "Platz!" command, and leaves
the dog without any leash or other article. The handler promptly goes at least
30 steps away from the dog without looking back or leaving the trial field,
and calmly stands in view of the dog but with his back to it. The dog must
lie there quietly, without the handler’s influence, while the other
dog performs exercises 1 through 6. Upon order of the judge, the handler returns
to his dog and steps to its right side. After approximately 3 seconds, after
an indication from the judge, the dog must sit up on command, quickly and
straight in the basic position.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Restless conduct by the handler as well as other hidden helps (body language),
the dog being restless while lying, and/or getting up too early when being
picked up, are errors resulting in point deductions. If the dog stands or
sits prematurely before completion of the 3rd exercise of the other, yet remains
in the place where it had been lying, it results in a partial point score.
If the dog strays more than 3 meters before the other dog has completed its
exercise # 3, then this exercise is to be given a zero (0). If it leaves that
place after the other dog’s completion of the 3rd exercise, it receives
a partial score. If the dog comes to meet the approaching handler, a deduction
of up to 3 points takes place.
________________________________________________________________
© Fred Lanting, mrgsd@hiwaay.net or www.MrGSD.com
IPO/SchH/VPG-2, Phase "C" PROTECTION
______________________________________________________________
Exercise 1: Quartering for the Helper (Search 6 Blinds) 5 points
Exercise 2: Hold and Bark 10 points
Exercise 3: Prevention of Helper’s Escape Attempt 10 points
Exercise 4: Defense of Attack from Guarding Exercise 20 points
Exercise 5: Back Transport 5 points
Exercise 6: Assault on the Dog from Back Transport 30 points
Exercise 5: Attack on the Dog from a Distance 20 points
Total 100 points
General Regulations:
At a suitable location 6 blinds, 3 on each side of the field in a staggered
arrangement, are set up. These must be easily visible for handler, judge,
and helper.
The helper must be supplied with protective clothing, schutzhund sleeve, and
padded stick. The schutzhund sleeve must be equipped with a bite bar, and
the cover made from natural jute. If it is necessary for the helper to keep
the dog looking him in the eye, the helper does not need to stand absolutely
quietly in the blind during this guarding phase. However, he may make no threatening
or defensive maneuvers. He must protect his body [cover vulnerable parts]
with the schutzhund sleeve. The manner in which the dog handler takes the
padded stick from helper is left up to him. [He can stay with the dog and
reach forward to take it, or leave the dog and take it before returning to
the basic position.] (“Helper regulations” are in the WUSV rulebook).
At schutzhund/VPG trials, one helper can be used for all levels, but if there
are seven or more dogs in the trial, two helpers should be used. The same
helper must be used for all handlers within any one trial level.
Dogs that are not kept in control by the handler, or that will not “out”
(Aus!) after the defense exercises or do so only through the active influence
of the handler, or that bite other parts of the body than the proffered schutzhund
sleeve, must be disqualified. The result is no TSB rating being given.
If a dog refuses to engage or defend its handler in the attack/defense exercise,
or leaves the area, this phase "C" is to be halted. The dog is given
no appraisal. The "TSB" evaluation has to be accomplished.
The command for the release (“Aus”), if needed, is allowed one
time during each defense exercise. The evaluation for the "out"
is in the table below.
Hesitant
“Out” First additional (2nd) command
with immediate
“out” First additional
(2nd) command
with hesitant
“out” Second additional
(3rd) command
with immediate
“out” Second additional
(3rd) command
with hesitant
“out” No “out” after
second additional
(at the 4th) command
0.5-3.0 3.0 3.5-6.0 6.0 6.5-9.0 Disqualification
1. Search the Blinds for the Helper 5 points
a) Commands
Commands for the blind search by tacking or quartering (sweeping the field
side-to-side), and calling the dog back (this can include the use of the dog’s
name as well as the “recall”): Voran or Revier, Heir.
b) Performance
The helper is found hiding in the last blind, initially out of view of the
dog. The handler with his freely heeling dog starts between the 2nd and 3rd
blinds, so that four lateral sweeps to the two sides are possible. Upon instruction
of the judge, the working out of Phase "C" begins. With short voice
commands such as "Revier!" and hand signals with the right or left
arm (which may be repeated), the dog must quickly leave the handler and purposefully,
closely, and attentively circle the blinds. As the dog implements each sweep
to the side, the handler calls the dog ("Hier!") toward himself
and directs it during the movement toward the subsequent blinds with a renewed
command to "Revier!" The handler proceeds in a normal walking speed
along the aforementioned centerline, which he may not leave during the dog’s
searches. The dog must always be in front of the handler. When the dog reaches
the helper’s hiding place, the handler must stop and remain standing,
and no further voice commands and/or hand signals are allowed.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Deficiencies in control of or by the dog, in regard to free and purposeful
attempts to find the helper, as well as in close and attentive circling of
the blinds, result in appropriate deductions.
2. Hold and Bark 10 points
a) Commands
Commands for the recall, finish/heel: Hier, Fuß
b) Performance
The dog must actively and attentively “hold” (guard) the helper
with persistent barking. The dog may not jump onto the helper, nor grab him.
After staying there for approximately 20 seconds, and after an order from
the judge, the handler directly approaches to within 5 paces of the blind.
After another directive from the judge, the handler calls his dog back to
the basic position.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Deficiencies in guarding with continuous, determined barking, and very eagerly
pressing the helper to keep him in his place, or this activity being influenced
by voice commands or the presence of the judge or the approaching handler,
are scored accordingly. For persistent barking, 5 points will be awarded.
If the dog barks only weakly, it will get 2 points, and if it does not bark
yet remains actively and attentively guarding the helper, 5 points are deducted.
“Bothering” the helper (biting, jumping on, bumping, etc.) will
cost them up to 2 points, and strong grips up to 9 points. If the dog leaves
the helper before the judge’s order is given for the handler to leave
the centerline where he was to stop, the dog can be ordered once more to go
to the helper (Revier). If the dog then remains at the helper and barking,
Phase “C” can be continued; however, a rating of Unsatisfactory/Faulty
is given. If the dog does not renew his bark-and-hold, or if the dog leaves
the helper again, Phase "C" is terminated at that point. If the
dog comes to meet the handler when he approaches the blind, or comes to the
handler before being called off, it is given a partial score and rated as
Unsatisfactory/Faulty.
3. Prevention of Escape Attempts by the Helper: 20 points
a) Voice Commands
Commands for finish, down, releases: Fuß, Platz, Aus.
b) Performance
On the judge’s order, the handler calls the helper to step out from
the blind. The helper proceeds at a normal walk to the designated starting
point for the escape attempt. Following an indication by the judge, the handler
proceeds with his freely heeling dog to a designated waiting place to prepare
for the escape attempt. The distance between helper and dog is about 5 paces.
The handler then puts his guarding dog in a “Platz” (down) position,
leaves it, and goes behind the blind, but he must still be able to observe
the dog, the helper and the judge.
Following an order/signal from the judge, the helper undertakes an escape
attempt. The dog must frustrate this attempt without hesitation, independently,
effectively, and with energetic and robust gripping. It may only attack the
helper by biting him on the schutzhund sleeve. Upon the judge’s order,
the helper stands still. After the helper stops the struggle, the dog must
release immediately. The handler can also give a voice command for "Aus"
after an appropriate time.
If the dog does not “out” after the first allowed command, the
handler receives the judge’s direction to give up to two further voice
commands for the “out". If the dog does not “out” after
the third command (one allowed without deduction and two additional), it results
in a disqualification. During the "Aus!" command, the handler must
stand still, without otherwise influencing the dog. After the release, the
dog must remain close to the helper and guard him attentively.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Not meeting the essentials of the following important performance criteria
results in appropriate deductions: fast, energetic reaction, fast pursuit
with robust grip and effective prevention of the escapee’s flight, full
calm and steady grip up until the stopping of the fight by the helper. If
the dog remains lying down when the helper tries to run away, or does not
stop the flight through grabbing and holding on within approximately 20 steps,
the exercise and the rest of "C" are terminated.
If the dog in the bark-and-hold process of guarding is slightly inattentive
and/or slightly bothering the helper, about 1 point is deducted from the exercise.
If the dog is very inattentive and/or is strongly annoying the helper, then
around 2 points are deducted from the exercise. If the dog does not hold (guard)
the aid, yet remains in place, around 3 points are taken off. If the dog leaves
the helper, or if the handler gives a command to make sure that the dog remains
at the helper, Phase "C" is terminated.
4. Defense of an Attack from the Guarding Exercise: 20 points
a) Commands
Commands for release (the “out”) and finish to heel position:
Aus, Fuß
b) Performance
After about 5 seconds of the above guarding phase, the helper upon order of
the judge undertakes an attack on the dog. Without influence by the handler,
the dog must defend itself through energetic and strong gripping. It may attack
the helper only on the Schutzhund sleeve. Once the helper has been grabbed
by the dog, he gives it 2 blows. Only blows on the area around the shoulder
blades and withers are permitted. The helper stands still when ordered to
by the judge. After the helper stops struggling and fighting, the dog must
release its grip immediately. After an appropriate time the handler can, without
direction from the judge, give a voice command to "Aus!"
If the dog does not “out” after the first command, the handler
receives the judge’s order for up to two further commands to “out”
(Aus!). If the dog does not release after these commands (one allowed and
two additional) it results in a disqualification. During the command to “out”
the handler must stand still, without otherwise influencing the dog. After
the “out”, the dog must remain close to the helper and guard him
attentively. Up Upon indication by the judge, the handler goes directly to
his dog at a normal walk, and tells it to heel to the basic position. The
padded stick is not taken from the helper at this time.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Not meeting the essentials of the following important performance criteria
results in appropriate deductions: fast and robust gripping, full calm and
steady grip up until the “out”, and after that release, close
and attentive guarding of the helper.
If the dog in the bark-and-hold process of guarding is slightly inattentive
and/or slightly bothering the helper, about 1 point is deducted from the exercise.
If the dog is very inattentive and/or is strongly annoying the helper, then
around 2 points are deducted from the exercise. If the dog does not hold (guard)
the aid, yet remains in place, around 3 points are taken off. If the dog comes
to meet the approaching handler, the exercise is evaluated as Unsatisfactory/Faulty.
If the dog leaves the helper before the judge instructs the handler to come
closer, or if the handler gives a command so that the dog remains at the helper,
Phase "C" is terminated.
5. Back Transport 5 points
a) Command
A heel command is given to the dog in this exercise: Fuß
b) Performance
At the conclusion of Exercise 4, the back transport commences. The returning
of the helper (under the watchful eye of the dog) to the judge takes place
over a distance of approximately 30 paces. The judge determines the procedure
of transport. The handler requests the “arrested” helper to move
out and follows with his free-heeling and attentively observing dog at a distance
of 5 paces behind the helper. This distance of 5 paces must be maintained
during the entire back transport.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Any failure to meet the following important performance criteria results in
appropriate deductions: attentively watching the helper, accurate heeling,
and keeping a distance of 5 paces.
6. Assault on the Dog from Back Transport 30 points
a) Command
A heel command is given to the dog in this exercise: Aus, Fuß
b) Performance
During the back transport an assault is made on the dog. In the middle of
his continuing march, and upon instruction by the judge, the handler turns
and attacks the dog. Without waiting for any signal by the handler the dog
unhesitatingly must defend itself by energetic and strong gripping. It may
attack the helper only at the protection sleeve. Once the dog sets its grasp,
the handler must stop and stand still. At the instruction of the judge, the
helper stops struggling. As soon as he does, the dog must “out”
immediately. The handler can give the command to "Aus!” after giving
the dog appropriate time to release.
If the dog does not release after the first permitted command, then the handler
receives the judge’s indication for up to two further commands to "out".
If the dog does not release after these commands (the one permitted with no
deduction, and two additional), it is disqualified. While giving the command
While giving the command "Aus!" the handler must stand calmly without
otherwise influencing the dog. After releasing its grip, the dog must remain
close to the helper and guard him attentively. Upon the judge’s instruction,
the handler goes at a normal pace, directly to his dog and tells it to go
to the basic position with the command "Fuß!” The padded
stick is still not taken from the helper yet.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Any failure to meet the following important performance criteria results in
appropriate deductions: fast and robust gripping, full and steady grip up
until the “out”, and after that release, close and attentive guarding
of the helper.
If the dog in the process of guarding is slightly inattentive and/or slightly
annoys the helper, about 1 point is deducted from the exercise. If the dog
is very inattentive and/or strongly bothers the helper, around 2 points are
deducted. If the dog does not guard the helper, yet remains at the helper,
around 3 points are deducted. If the dog leaves the helper to meet the approaching
handler, the exercise will be rated as Unsatisfactory/Faulty. If the dog leaves
the helper before the judge’s order for the handler to approach the
dog, or the handler gives a voice command in order to keep the dog at the
helper, the exercise and the rest of "C" are then interrupted (terminated).
7. Running Attack on the Dog (Long-distance Defense) 20 points
a) Commands
Commands for sitting, attack/defend, “out”, finish, heel, march
(move out): Sitz, Stell or Voran (or equivalent such as Packen!), Aus, Fuß.
b) Performance
The handler proceeds with his dog to the designated place on the centerline
of the field even with the first blind. The dog can be held by the collar,
but may not be stimulated by the handler. Upon an order from the judge the
helper, furnished with a padded stick, steps from his hiding-place at the
other end of the field, and goes in a normal walk to the centerline then proceeds
to run toward, threaten, and attack the team, without interrupting his running.
He makes threatening sounds and violently threatening movements directed frontally
at the handler and his dog. As soon as the helper gets to within 50 to 40
steps of them, the handler on signal from the judge releases his dog with
the command to repel the attacker ("Packen!” etc.) for their defense.
The dog must avert the attack without hesitation, through energetic and strong
gripping. It may attack the helper only on the schutzhund sleeve. The handler
may not leave his position. The helper discontinues the fight upon order of
the judge. When he stops struggling and fighting, the dog must release its
grip immediately. After an appropriate time the handler can, without direction
from the judge, give a voice command to "Aus!"
If the dog does not “out” after the first command, the handler
receives the judge’s order for up to two further commands to “out”
(Aus!). If the dog does not release after these commands (one allowed and
two additional) it results in a disqualification. During the command to “out”
the handler must stand still, without otherwise influencing the dog. After
the “out”, the dog must remain close to the helper and guard him
attentively. On the judge’s order, the handler goes at a normal pace
and directly to his dog, and picks up his dog with the voice command to "Fuß"
to the basic position. This time the padded stick is taken from the helper.
There follows a “side transport” of the helper to the judge for
a distance of about 20 paces. A command to "Fuß gehen" (“walk
on”, etc.) is allowed. The dog has to be at the right side of the helper,
so that it is between the helper and the handler. The dog must observe the
helper attentively during the transport. However, it may not press, jump onto,
or bite the helper. The three of them halt before the judge, the handler turns
over the padded stick to the judge, and “reports out”, saying
that they have finished phase "C" of the exercise. Before beginning
the public critique and on direction of the judge, the dog is heeled or brought
to the place where the appraisal and score will be announced, and made to
lie down.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Any failure to meet the following important performance criteria results in
appropriate deductions: energetic defense with strong bites, full calm and
steady grip up until the “out”, and after that release, close
and attentive guarding of the helper.
If the dog in the process of guarding is slightly inattentive and/or slightly
annoys the helper, about 1 point is deducted from the exercise. If the dog
is very inattentive and/or strongly bothers the helper, around 2 points are
deducted. If the dog does not guard the helper, yet remains at the helper,
around 3 points are deducted. If the dog leaves the helper to meet the approaching
handler, the exercise will be rated Unsatisfactory/Faulty. If the dog leaves
the helper before the judge’s order for the handler to approach the
dog, or the handler gives a voice command in order to keep the dog on the
helper, the exercise and the rest of "C" are then interrupted (terminated).