An Overview of Schutzhund Sport for German Shepherd Dogs
Schutzhund is a dog sport created for breeders to assess the working capacity of their dogs. The knowledge acquired from a Schutzhund trial should be utilized as a resource when choosing mates for breeding. Here at Czech Working Line, all our dogs are from working line pedigrees. All our stud dogs are genetically tested Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) clear. We only use Schutzhund titled German Shepherd Dog studs. Every litter of German Shepherd puppies for sale we offer descend from stacked pedigrees where virtually every dog on both sides of pedigree are Schutzhund titled.
What does Schutzhund entail?
Schutzhund translates to “protection dog.” This sport concentrates on developing a dog’s ability in obedience, tracking and protection work. A side benefit of this sport is the deep bond that develops between the dog and its owner.
The original goal of creating Schutzhund was to establish a canine sport that could evaluate a dog’s working capabilities for breeding better working dogs that also have good temperaments.
Schutzhund training focuses on three components. Recognizing the first two parts of the American Kennel Club’s affiliates’ obedience work will be familiar to many. The Schutzhund requirements for protection work in the third part are somewhat comparable to police or personal protection work, though not entirely.
Originally, Schutzhund trials were primarily developed for German Shepherds. Schutzhund functions as a test against an objective standard. Unlike a dog show that essentially functions as a kind of beauty contest. Dogs are put in a ring and the “prettiest” dog is chosen as the winner. Okay, maybe we might say the dog that closest matches the breed standard in conformation wins the show. Schutzhund was designed with far more in mind. The goal of Schutzhund is to test of the dog’s mental stability, endurance, physical abilities, scenting skill, work ethic, bravery, and ease of training. As such, Schutzhund is a performance sport. Yes, the dog needs great conformation. Without sound structure, the dog will break down and be unable to physically compete. So, in this sense, conformation and structure is a necessity. But in a sense, it is a means to end.
This sport for working dogs allows dog owners to train their dogs and compete for recognition of the handler’s training skills and the dog’s performance ability. It is a activity that people from different careers appreciate, coming together in a bond created by their shared passion for training their dogs. People of various ages and backgrounds, including those with disabilities, participate in Schutzhund as a sport. Many Schutzhund sport enthusiasts describe the sport as a way to connect with nature with their families. Dogs get exercise. Time spent with kids. And it’s done outdoors! It’s a great way to decompress. Here at Czech Working Line, from time to time through the year we offer several carefully planned breedings of some of the top bloodlines in the world. If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy for sale that you might be suitable for Schutzhund, we’d be happy to answer any questions you might have.
The Schutzhund Trial Consists of Three Parts
The Phase of Tracking
During the Tracking Phase, the judge will conduct a temperament test to ensure the dog’s mental stability. The dog should not act shy or aggressive when approached closely on a loose leash. The path is created beforehand by an individual walking in a typical manner on a surface like soil or turf. The course has multiple bends and several small, artificial items placed on the track by the individual. At the conclusion of a 30-foot leash, the handler trails behind the dog, which is tasked with following the scent trail and showing the position of the objects, typically by laying down with it placed between its front paws. The tracking phase evaluates the dog’s trainability, scenting ability, and endurance, both mentally and physically.
The Phase of Obedience
The Obedience Phase consists of a set of heeling drills, with some being done in close proximity to a crowd of individuals. While heeling, a gunshot test is conducted to ensure that the dog does not visibly react to loud noises like gunshots. Additionally, there are field exercises where the dog is instructed to sit, lay down, and stand while the handler remains in motion. From these different locations, the dog is called back to the owner. Using dumbbells of different weights, the dog must retrieve them across a flat surface, over a one-meter hurdle, and over a slanted wall that is six feet tall. The command requires the dog to run straight from the handler and then lay down when instructed. Eventually, every dog must remain in a lying down stance away from their handler, even with distractions on one side of the training area, as another dog performs the tasks mentioned before. All obedience exercises assess the dog’s temperament, structural capabilities, and, crucially, its readiness to serve humans.
The Phase of Protection
The Protection Phase assesses the dog’s bravery, physical prowess, and nimbleness. The control of the dog by the handler is completely necessary. The tasks involve searching for hidden spots, discovering someone in hiding (playing the role of a human decoy), and protecting that decoy as the trainer comes closer. The dog is anticipated to chase after the decoy if there is an escape attempt and to maintain a secure grip. The decoy is sought out and brought to the judge by the handler and dog, who follow behind and then walk on the decoy’s right side. The dog is anticipated to halt the decoy’s attack with a strong hold and without any delay.
The ultimate test of bravery happens when the decoy is called out of their hiding spot by the dog’s handler from the far side of the testing area. The dog is deployed to pursue the decoy when he tries to escape. Right as the dog is close to catching the fake target, the judge motions for the decoy to abruptly change direction and head towards the dog while holding a stick to intimidate it. During the protection phase, all bites should be securely placed on the padded sleeve and halted either on command or when the decoy ceases the fight. The purpose of protection tests is to confirm that the dog is not timid or a potential threat.
Schutzhund Across The Globe
The initial Schutzhund trial took place in Germany in 1901 in order to highlight the appropriate working temperament and skills of the German Shepherd breed. In the beginning, these dogs were used for herding purposes. However, the industrialization in Germany motivated breeders to advocate for the utilization of their dogs as police and military dogs. The Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (SV), the main club, was worried that this could result in irresponsible breeding and unwanted characteristics like mental instability, so they created the Schutzhund test.
Since that time, numerous other countries and working dog groups have also embraced Schutzhund as a sport and evaluation of dogs’ working abilities. The Verein fur Deutsche Hundesport (VDH) enforces international regulations that have been put in place.
The initial Schutzhund trial in the United States took place in California in 1970. In 1987, the United Schutzhund Clubs of America authorized around 300 trials with roughly 1,800 teams of dogs and handlers participating. Teams of competitors from over 17 countries participated in the World Championship for Schutzhund dogs organized by the World Union of German Shepherd Clubs.
The Schutzhund Titles are the certifications that dogs can earn.
The Schutzhund test consists of three levels. In order to participate in Schutzhund I, dogs need to be a minimum of 14 months old and successfully complete a judge-administered temperament test. The dog is required to walk obediently on and off the leash, perform the walking sit and walking down exercises, pass the stay tests, and complete the send-out task. It has to be collected on the flat and also over an obstacle. When tracking, the dog should be capable of tracing the trail set by its trainer at least 20 minutes ago. Protection tests are also conducted.
To compete in Schutzhund II, the dog needs to be a minimum of 16 months old and have already achieved its Schutzhund I title. It needs to once again demonstrate all the obedience and protection skills necessary for the Schutzhund I level, with the added challenge of more difficult tests in Schutzhund II that demand increased endurance, agility, and most importantly, control. An extra climb is needed over the slanted wall that is six feet tall. In order to pass the Schutzhund II tracking test, the dog must be capable of following a scent trail set by someone unknown for at least half an hour.
In order to achieve Schutzhund III, the dog must have obtained Schutzhund I and Schutzhund II titles, and be at least 18 months old. Once again, the tests have become significantly harder. All training for obedience and protection is done without a leash. A walking and running platform has been included. During tracking, the dog needs to trail a path that was created by an unfamiliar person at least 50 minutes in advance. The course features four turns, as opposed to the two turns in Schutzhund I and II, and there are three items instead of two that the dog must locate. An exceptional Schutzhund III team showcases a stunning example of the bond between human and dog through their obedience, strength, eagerness, and confidence.
The importance of the breed’s value.
A German Shepherd with a Schutzhund degree shows enough skill as a working dog to be eligible for breed assessment. The breed assessment involves a thorough assessment of the dog’s physical build, behavior, and ancestry, as well as meeting specific criteria for healthy hips and passing an endurance test (the AD). Dogs that excel in the breed assessment are awarded either a Koerklasse I or Koerklasse II. This is an assessment and judgment by a qualified and acknowledged expert evaluator regarding the suitability of the dog for reproduction. Dogs listed as Koerklass II are considered “appropriate for breeding” while dogs listed as Koerklass I are seen as “advisable for breeding.” By evaluating dogs to choose the best ones for breeding, Schutzhund contributes to maintaining the breed’s quality at a very high standard. In other words, puppies born to Schutzhund dams and sired by Schutzhund dogs are highly likely to possess dependable temperament, intelligence, nerve stability, endurance, strength, and physical structure.
What Qualities is the Judge Seeking in a GSD?
In all three levels – Schutzhund I, II, and III – each of the three categories: obedience, tracking, and protection, is valued at 100 points, totaling 300 points. A dog must achieve at least 70% of the points in tracking and obedience, as well as 80% of the points in protection, in order to earn a degree on the same day. If the dog does not meet these requirements or fails the pretrial temperament test, it must retake the entire test and pass all phases at a future trial. During each competition, the judge seeks a focused, enthusiastic, precise working canine. The animal that shows a strong desire and capability to work for its human handler receives high ratings and scores.
The Home with a Schutzhund-Trained Dog
Because Schutzhund showcases the most desirable traits of the German Shepherd breed, dogs that are proficient in Schutzhund training are typically great companions at home. The German Shepherd Dog, along with other working dogs that have a stable mindset, holds self-assurance and faith in itself, enabling it to be calm in its environment.
Along with good structural qualities for extended, tough tasks, the German Shepherd Dog breed also requires mental stability and a readiness to work. The dog should be friendly and calm, standing confidently and showing a readiness to interact, receiving gestures without initiating them itself. It should be brave, yet gentle with kids.
The German Shepherd Dog must not display timidity or nervousness when faced with unfamiliar sounds or sights. An excessively aggressive dog due to general fears of people and situations can pose a significant threat. The purpose of the Schutzhund sport is to identify and remove dogs like these from the breeding population. Due to Schutzhund training, the owner gains significant control over their dog, allowing the dog to enjoy themselves more. Schutzhund training is pleasurable for the dog and strengthens the bond between the dog and its owners as the trained dog learns to please them.
The Police Work Dog Trained in Schutzhund
A well-performing Schutzhund dog may sometimes double as a police service dog. Police dogs, along with other service dogs, need to possess temperaments that are built on a strong base of intelligence and usefulness. Just a small amount of extra training can prepare numerous highly trained Schutzhund dogs for active police work. These brave police dogs can operate among children and crowds without causing concern for their handlers.
Finding a German Shepherd Puppy for Sale for Schutzhund Training
Understanding the puppy’s potential is reliant on the pedigree across all breeds. Schutzhund is focused on working lines which consist of dogs that have demonstrated their abilities and passed on similar traits to their offspring over generations. These traits encompass not just the dog’s physical makeup, which holds significance, but also its personality.
Choosing the lineage for your puppy may necessitate seeking guidance. Data gathered from surveys of different breeds can be beneficial. Naturally, it is logical to talk about your goals with trusted and seasoned Schutzhund handlers or enthusiasts.
After confirming the high quality bloodlines of the potential parents, especially the mother, try to observe them if you can. The young pup will be mostly influenced by the dam during the initial six weeks of its life. If the dam is anxious or hesitant, it is likely that this doubt will be passed on to the next generation.
To choose the best puppy, observe the litter as a whole as well as individually when they are together and apart. Keep an eye out for easily identifiable structural issues or health concerns.
It is crucial for the puppy to possess a strong inclination to hunt any kind of prey, such as a ball or a toy. The puppy also needs to take the lead in dominating the other puppies. The puppy must not display fear when separated from its siblings. It does not have to remain with the mother. The young dog needs to be curious and energetic, engaging with items given by a person within the area, yet capable of exploring on its own with those items too.
Having independence and confidence, along with a positive relationship with the pack leader (the mother at the time), will result in the necessary trainability traits.
Puppy Selection Scoresheet.
Training a puppy for Schutzhund tasks.
The stage of puppyhood is the most crucial time for fostering desired traits. Your nearby Schutzhund club is able to provide guidance on how to care for and socialize your maturing puppy.
A young dog gains knowledge through its interactions, therefore you should aim to offer solely favorable ones. It should be given the chance to discover and examine new environments and individuals, as long as it is done in a non-intimidating manner. Keep in mind that you should aim to instill self-assurance in the juvenile creature. Your goal is not to control or subjugate the young pup.
Being exposed to various environments is essential for a dog’s overall education and to help them feel secure that the world is safe. If the dog seems hesitant about something, allow it to explore at its own pace without pressuring it.
It is crucial to steer clear of scenarios in which your dog may be overpowered by a different, more experienced or robust dog, or by another young dog. You also want to steer clear of having to discipline or correct your puppy in order to avoid dampening its spirit or harming its self-confidence. Make sure to always supervise your puppy to prevent any damage to your belongings or potential danger.
The last aspect of growth is the promotion of motivation. The desired behaviors to promote include interacting with the ball, engaging in tug of war, playing hide and seek, pulling toys on a string, chasing you when you run away, and protecting itself, its family, and its home. The latter only becomes evident between nine and 18 months old, when the puppy starts to mature and barks at strangers or intruders.
It is best to delay formal obedience training with a younger dog. The puppy’s nature is not strong enough to handle the corrections needed for obedience training. It is recommended to have good etiquette at home and in the car, as well as engage in “play” training, such as teaching a dog to sit for a food reward without any punishment. Actual obedience training should commence once the dog has progressed significantly in protection training.
Are Dogs Happy with Schutzhund Training?
If dogs are properly trained, they can take pleasure in working, evident to those who participate in Schutzhund competitions. The happiness of the dogs while cooperating with their handlers is clear.
Dogs have evolved over thousands of years to form a mutually beneficial bond with humans. Although dogs possessed abilities to move briskly, track down prey, and guard flocks and their master, humans were able to offer sustenance, refuge from harsh weather, and defense against bigger predators, in addition to caring for the dog’s wounds.
Training in Schutzhund enhances the dog’s innate instincts to a great extent. Confident dogs, performing tasks they are trained for, are content dogs. An observer at a Schutzhund trial can see how much dogs enjoy the work through wagging tails, sounds of excitement, and strong pulling on a leash. Once more, if you arrived at this article looking for a German Shepherd puppy for sale, check out our available German Shepherd puppies for sale by clicking here. We’ll be happy to help in any way we can.
