All examinations and qualification events are subject to principles
of sportsmanship regarding the performance and behavior of those
involved. The execution, demonstration,
and evaluation are more thoroughly described below. These
regulations are binding for all involved, and all participants have
to meet the same performance requirements. One change
is that at the BH/VT examination,
the gunsureness test no longer takes place. In order to
participate in FH, SchH/VPG, IPO, RTP (SAR), Agility, and Obedience
events, proof of the BH/VT is required.
Authorized to award the BH/VT are
SchH/VPG, Agility and Obedience trial judges listed and approved by
any AZG-member association. The examination result is to be
noted in the appropriate performance record, such as scorebook or
Ahnentafel (pedigree/registration paper).
BH examinations are recognized only if they are recorded by an
association belonging to the ZG (a special committee of VDH for
SchH/VPG/Agility/Obedience).
[AZG is the organization for breed clubs and working-dog clubs, and
VDH is the German all-breed club.]
The gatherings have a public character; that is, the events should
be in or simulate normal public traffic areas, and the general
public is to be admitted. Location and performance of the trials are
to be approved by the VDH-member association. Other member clubs are
bound by these arrangements, including protecting the event dates.
General regulations
Certified are all dog owners/handlers who furnish proof that they
have prior experience in such a specialized training examination
(have previously earned a BH, for example), similar to the dog
training regulations of the VDH.
Participants who for the first time enter a BH trial and who have
not furnished appropriate proof of this special experience, must
pass a specified written examination before the date of the event,
to the satisfaction of the trial judge, before they and their dogs
are tested in the practical part.
Dogs of all breeds and sizes can be cefied.The
minimum age for participation is fifteen months.
In order to award any BH, at least
four dogs must participate in the examination. If the BH is
combined with other tests (e.g. SchH/VPG, FH, RTP), then there must
be at least 4 participants combined.
The permissible number of participants in one test-day for one judge
varies from 10 to 15 entries, the number decided by the judge. The
total for all levels in one event (a weekend, for example) is not to
exceed 30. (Two BH’s with the written exams counts as 3 entries.)
Impartiality demonstration
Before allowing the BH examination to proceed, the entered dogs
submit to an impartiality test, showing normal temperament, along
with identity confirmation in the form of checking the tattoo and/or
chip number. Dogs that are not positively identifiable are not
authorized to take part in the further examination. The evaluation
of impartiality continues during the entire BH. Dogs that do not
show impartiality throughout are excluded from any further test
process even if they pass the first impartiality demonstration. At
any time in the
course of the examination, the judge can dismiss the dog for lack of
character, and record in the performance register a note such as
"Impartiality (or correct behavior) not demonstrated".
Evaluation
Dogs that do not attain
the necessary 70% of the points in part A, cannot continue in part B
(examination in public traffic areas).
At the conclusion of
the BH examination, no points are announced; just the subjective
value judgment as to whether suitability "existed" or "did not
exist" for the BH award. The test is considered as having been
successfully completed, if in part A, 70% of the possible points
were attained, and in part B the exercises were considered by the
judge as being sufficient.
The BH that is assigned
is not a “training title or degree” in the sense of those titles
governed by the regulations for breeding, conformation, Körung
(official breed survey), or other exhibitions of a member-club of
the VDH. A subsequent repeated BH
attempt at a later date is not bound by any waiting period.
Each trial result is to be registered
into the dog’s performance record
independently of the success of any other test.
A subsequent
A) BH Portion Done
on the Exercise Area
Total points:
60
Each single exercise
begins and ends with the basic position: The dog sits straight on
the left side of its handler with its right shoulder even with his
legs. Taking the basic position is only permitted once at the
beginning of each exercise. In the basic position, the handler
stands normally, at ease or at attention; a widespread stance is not
permitted. The position in which
the team ends the preceding exercise can be used as the beginning
basic position for the following exercise. “Body-language”
help from the handler is not permitted; if any such movement is
made, points are deducted. Carrying of training or play articles is
not permitted. If a handler cannot perform a part of the exercise
correctly due to physical handicap, then he has to communicate this
before beginning of the examination to the judge. If a handicap
does not permit the dog heeling at the left side of the handler,
then the dog may heel at his right side.
The
judge instructs the handler to begin an exercise.
All further actions,
such as commands, stops, changes of pace, etc. are implemented
without instruction by the judge. It is permitted, however, for the
handler to inquire of the judge regarding these instructions.
Praising of the dog is permitted only after each exercise ends.
After that, the
dog and handler can take a new basic position. Between praise and
beginning the new exercise, a clear time interval (approximately 3
seconds) is to be observed. Between the exercises the dog must heel
to the next starting position.
1. On-leash Work (15
points)
Voice Command:
"Fuß"
(or “Heel”
or equivalent)
The handler begins the
exercise in the “basic” (heel) position, with his dog on leash and
wearing the acceptable long-link collar or chest harness. Upon being
given the voice command "Fuss!" the dog joyfully follows close at
the handler’s side. The collar may not be connected to the leash on
the “live ring” (must not tighten as a noose if pulled).
Beginning the exercise,
the handler with his dog has to go straight ahead without stopping
for 40 to 50 steps, then make a left about-turn, return 10 to 15
normal paces, followed by 10-15 running steps, then 10-15 slow
steps, and again 10-15 at a normal pace. Continuing at
this normal pace, they implement at least one right turn, one left
turn, one stop, and one about-turn. The dog always has to
heel with its shoulder even with the knees of the handler, and at
his left side; it may not forge,
lag, or heel wide. The about-turn is always a pivot to the
left.
Only when starting to
walk, and with any change of pace is the handler permitted the voice
command "Fuss!" If the handler stops, the dog has to sit itself
automatically and quickly without help or instruction by the
handler. The handler may not change his position to move closer to
a dog that is possibly sitting some distance other than close-by.
The leash is to be held in the left hand during heeling, and must
sag (be slack enough to see the shape of a “J”). Upon instruction
of the judge, the handler/dog team goes through a group of at least
four persons. The handler must stop at least once in the group.
The group itself has to move about, in random disorder.
Lagging, forging, or
wide heeling as well as hesitation to respond to the commands of the
handler are faults.
Group
Heeling through the group of moving persons is to be demonstrated
both on-leash and off-leash. In each case there must be at least
one turn to the left and one to the right (e.g. in a figure-8)
around the persons in the group. There is to be at least one stop
in the proximity of a person each time (both leashed and
free-heeling). It is up to the judge to require a repetition.
Praising the dog is permitted only after leaving the group, and only
in the stopped basic position.
About-Turn (180°)
The execution of the
about-turn is permitted in two manners, but in each case it must be
shown as a left turn in-place (pivot). The dog may either go around
behind the handler, or turn left with the handler, staying on the
same side of him throughout the maneuver.
2. Free-heeling
Sequences (15 points)
Voice command “Fuß!”
When
the judge indicates the start of this portion, the dog is off-leash
and in the basic position. The
handler loops the leash around the shoulder or waist. or puts it
into his pocket (in either case, the opposite side from where the
dog will be), and immediately proceeds again with his free-heeling
dog into the moving group to repeat the exercise at least once.
After leaving the group, the handler takes the basic position
briefly and begins the off-lead sequence in the same pattern as
described in Exercise 1.
3. Sit Out of
Motion Exercise (10 points)
Voice command
"Sit/Sitz!"
From the basic
position, the handler goes straight ahead with his dog heeling
off-leash. After at least 10 paces, he “sits the dog” with the
command "Sit!" without interrupting or changing his pace or looking
around. The dog must sit promptly. After a further 30 steps, the
handler stops and turns immediately to face his dog. When the judge
signals, the handler goes back to its dog and takes up the basic
position at its right side again. If the dog lies down or remains
standing instead of sitting, 5 points are deducted.
4. The Down Out of
Motion, with Recall (10 points)
Voice command: "Platz!", "Hier!", “Fuß!”
From
the basic position, the handler with his dog proceeds straight ahead
with the voice command “Fuß!” After at least 10 paces, he commands
the dog to immediately drop and remain lying down with the voice
command "Platz!" Without turning to look, or giving other helps to
the dog, the handler continues in the same direction and a straight
line some 30 steps further, turns immediately to his dog, and stands
quietly. Upon a signal from the judge, the handler calls his dog to
him. The dog must joyfully and briskly run to its handler and sit
itself closely in front. On the “Fuß!” command, it must go to the
basic heel position beside its handler.
If
the dog stands or if sits down, yet makes the approach perfectly,
then 5 points are deducted.
5. Long Down under
Distraction (10 points)
Voice
commands: "Platz!", "Sit!"
At the beginning of
another dog’s examination, the handler puts his dog down at a
designated place; this is done from the basic position, when
instructed by the judge. The dog is left there without any leash or
other article. The handler departs to a place 30 paces away, and
stands with his back to the dog. During the other team’s first
several exercises, the dog left on this “Platz” has to remain lying
down and calmly so. Upon a signal by the judge, the handler
returns, steps to the right side of his dog, and on further
instruction by the judge tells his dog to take it the basic position
with the voice command "Sit!" If the dog sits, stands, or lies
restlessly, then a partial score is given. A dog that rises, sits,
or creeps over a distance longer than its own body, gets no rating
for the exercise.
Restless behaviors by
the handler, as well as other subtle assistance, are faulted.
Bitches are to lie down
in different spots than where the males do.
A dog that does not
attain at least 70% (42 points) in exercises 1 to 5 is excluded from
the remaining parts of the BH examination.
B) Traffic
Sureness Test
General Information
The
following exercises take place outside of the training/performance
field in a suitable nearby area, possibly enclosed. The judge, with
the trial manager, specifies where and how the exercises are
accomplished in the proximity of public traffic (roads, paths, or
such places). Public traffic may not be hindered.
The
execution of this part of the test requires a substantial allowance
of time because of the nature of the exercises. Performance is not
to be sacrificed for the sake of accepting many more entries.
Points will not be assigned for the individual exercises of part B.
This section is judged subjectively, according to the over-all
relevant impression of the dog in moving traffic and public
situations.
The
following described exercises are suggestions, and can be adapted to
local conditions by the judge individually. The judge is justified
in repeated and/or varying the dogs’ exercises if he has any doubts
regarding the evaluations.
Test Conclusion
(Part B)
1. Encountering
Groups
Upon instruction of the
judge, the handler with dog on leash walks along a section of road
or sidewalk. The judge follows the team at an appropriate distance.
The dog is at the left
side of the handler on a loose leash, with its shoulder even with
the handler’s knees, and willingly heels with him.
The dog has to remain
indifferent to the pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
On
their way, the handler is passed by a running person.
The dog has to be
neutral and not bothered by it.
Handler and dog walk
through a loose bunch of at least 6 persons, in the course of which,
one of those people greets the handler, shakes hands with him, and
converses with him. The dog has to sit beside the handler when
told, and behave itself calmly during this short time.
2.
EncounteringEncountering
Cyclists
The leashed
dog goes further along the way with its handler; from the rear a
cyclist passes them, with a bell signals as warning. After a long
enough distance, the cyclist turns and comes back to again meet
handler and dog. Bell signals are given again.
Cycling past has to take place in
such a way that the dog is between its handler and the passing
cyclist.
The dog has to show no fear of the cyclists coming toward
them.
3.
EE Encountering
Cars
The handler
with his dog on leash passes several cars. One of the vehicles is
started. With another car, a door is slammed shut. While handler
and dog continue, a car beside them stops. The windowpane is
lowered and the handler is asked for information. The dog has to
sit when told by the handler or do so automatically. The dog has to
be calm and show indifference in relation to cars and all traffic
noises.
4.E
Encountering Joggers or Roller Skaters
The handler walks with his calm, leashed dog further along the way.
At least two joggers come past them without slowing down. As jogger
# 1 gets farther away, jogger # 2 comes toward the dog and handler,
without the speed to lower past the dog does not have to correctly
keep heeling; however, it may not trouble the people passing and/or
approaching them but allow them to pass. The handler is permitted
to sit or “platz” his dog just before and during these encounters.
Instead of the joggers,
two roller skaters can be used.
5. Encountering
Other Dogs
When
another dog with its handler comes from behind or in front, the dog
has to remain neutral and impartial.
The handler may repeat
the “Fuß!” command or may place his dog in the sitting or down
position.
6. On-leash
Behavior with
Traffic; Being Left Alone a Short While; Calm Behavior Concerning
Other Animals
When instructed by the
judge, the handler with dog on leash takes to the sidewalk of a
moderately busy road. After a short distance, and as the judge
directs, the handler stops and fastens the leash to a fence, a wall
ring or some such thing. The handler goes into a business or a
house entrance or otherwise out of view.
The dog may stand, sit
or lie down.
During the absence of
the handler, a pedestrian with a dog on leash passes the test dog at
a distance of approximately five paces.
The tied-out dog must
remain calm during the absence of its leader.
It lets the other dog be led past (one with no rowdiness itself)
without showing aggression such as strong pulling at the line or
continuous barking. Upon instruction by the judge, the dog
is again fetched by the handler.
Note
It is
left to the acting judge whether he require all the individual
exercises with each dog at the places planned, or whether he might
let all tested dogs complete only some of the exercises there and
then visit the next test place and proceed likewise.
_______________________________________________________________________
Notes by the translator:
© Fred Lanting, mrgsd@hiwaay.net
or www.MrGSD.com
Part Two, VPG*:
Schutzhund-Versatility test, Level-1 (SchH-1/VPG-1;
IPO is identical).
*Note:
Vielseitigkeitsprüfung (VPG) is the new, politically-motivated name
for the schutzhund evaluation. The name for the sport will
undoubtedly continue as “schutzhund in common usage; the title
itself may be IP-, SchH, or VPG.
Three
divisions:
Phase A 100 points
Phase B 100 points
Phase B 100 points
Total: 300 points
_______________________________________________________________________
IPO/SchH/VPG-1, Phase "A", TRACKING
Search (unguided): at
least 300 steps, 3 legs, 2 corners (approximately 90°), 2 articles
belonging to the dog handler, the track at least 20 minutes old, the
working time 15 minutes.
Holding to the
track: 80 points
Finding articles (10
points each):
20 points
Total:
100 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.
The handler (track
layer) has to show the articles to the judge or someone answerable
to him, before the start of the track.
The only scent articles
allowed are well-weathered ones (aged at least 30 minutes). The
handler (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
the dropping of 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]. Article
length should be 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. During the laying of the track,
the dog must be out of sight.
The judge and
assistants may not interfere with the work of the dogs in the area
in which the team (handler and dog) is searching.
a) Voice Command
An example of a voice
command for searches: Such! (search!)
The voice command for
"search" is allowed at the start of the track, and after the first
article. (It is pronounced almost like “sook” but with a softer,
guttural ch/k.)
b) Performance of the
Exercise
The handler prepares
and brings his dog to the track. The dog can 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 are 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 the
judge’s order, 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 at the end of the tracking lead. If it is a free
search (off-line), the distance of 10 m is likewise to be observed.
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 found articles are to be shown
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 helps 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-1, Phase "B" OBEDIENCE
Exercise 1:
Off-lead Heeling 20 points
Exercise 2: Sit
out of Motion 10 points
Exercise 3: Down
and Recall 10 points
Exercise 4:
Retrieve on Flat Ground 10 points
Exercise 5:
Retrieve over 1-m Hurdle 15 points
Exercise 6: Retrieve over the Wall
15
points
Exercise 7: The
Go-out and Down 10 points
Exercise 8: Lying
Still with Distraction 10 points
Total: 100 points
GENERAL:
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. 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 counts as a double
command.
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 only after each finished exercise, and 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 smooth, firm, non-slip
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 organization
must be used by all participants. The dumbbell may not be given the
dog before throwing it and the commands to jump and bring.
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
20 points
a) Commands
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
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 for "Fuß!" 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 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
transitions from the walk to the run to the slow pace and back to
normal 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
in heeling or sitting, hesitates on the sit command, requires
additional voice commands or body language help, or shows a poor
attention in the heeling and/or turns, 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 Sit
b) Performance
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 or
movement of the handler, poor 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. Retrieve on the
Flat 10 points
a) Commands
Commands for
retrieving, releasing, and going to basic position: Bring, Aus, and
Fuß
b) Performance
From the basic position the handler throws a
dumbbell (weight 650 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 and face straight
ahead. The handler may not leave his position during this exercise.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Errors while heeling,
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.
5. Retrieve over the
1-meter Hurdle 15 points
a) Commands
Sample commands for
jumping, retrieving, releasing, and finish: Hopp, Bring, Fu
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
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 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 changing position or in wide
stance, and poor sit or heel position (finish) will result in
appropriate deductions. Striking the hurdle while jumping will cost
up to one point, and putting feet on the hurdle will have up to two
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 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 rated as
Faulty (0 - 10 points).
6. 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 rated as
Faulty (0 - 10 points).
7. 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.
8. 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 goes (still within
the trial area) without looking back, at least 30 steps away from
the dog, and stands still in view of the dog but with his back to
it. The dog must lie there quietly and still 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 help (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, but remains in the place where it was lying, a
partial score is given.
If the dog leaves its
“down” place before the other dog’s performance of exercise #3, by 3
meters or more, the exercise is rated as 0. If the dog leaves the
place where it was lying after conclusion of exercise #3, it
receives a partial score. If the dog comes to meet the handler as he
approaches to pick up the dog, a point deduction up to three points
is made.
___________________________________________________________________
IPO/SchH/VPG-1,
Phase "C": PROTECTION
Exercise 1: Quarter for
the Helper (Search the Blinds) 5 points
Exercise 2: Hold and
Bark 10
points
Exercise 3: Prevention
of Helper’s Escape Attempt 20 points
Exercise 4: Defense of
Attack from the Guarding Phase 35 points
Exercise 5: Attack on
the Dog from a Distance 30
points
Total 100 points
General Regulations:
At suitable places are
6 blinds (hiding places), 3 blinds on each side of the field, in a
staggered set-up. These must be easily visible to 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 rule-book).
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 do not stay
in the control of the handler, or that will not “out” (Aus!) after
the defense exercises or 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 point deduction appraisal 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) Voice 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 4th and 5th
blinds, so that sweeps to the two sides are possible. Upon order of
the judge, they start Phase "C". 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 #5 blind. If the dog has
executed the sweep to the side, the handler calls the dog ("Hier!")
toward himself and directs it during the movement toward the #6
blind with a renewed voice command to "Revier!" [search by tacking].
The handler proceeds in a normal walking speed along the
aforementioned centerline, which he may not leave during the dog’s
tacking. 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) Voice 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. Alternatively, the dog handler is
allowed to pick up his dog and free-heel it from the blind. Both
variations will be evaluated equally.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Deficiencies in
guarding, such as in continuous, determined barking, and very
eagerly pressing the helper, 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” (hitting,
etc.) the helper 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 (0
– 6.5 points) results. If the dog does not resume the bark-and-hold,
or leaves the helper again, Phase “C” is halted. If the dog comes to
the handler when he approaches the blind, or comes to the handler
before being called off, it is given a partial score (0 – 6.5
points) 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 order by the judge, the handler
proceeds with his freely heeling dog to the designated waiting place
for the escape attempt. The distance between helper and dog is about
5 paces. The handler then leaves his guarding dog and hides 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 command "Aus!", 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 and steady grip up until the stopping of the fight and/or the
“out” command, and close, attentive guarding of the helper. If the
dog remains lying, or does
not stop the flight through grabbing and holding on within
approximately 20 steps, the exercise and the rest of "C" are ended.
If the dog in the
process of guarding is slightly inattentive and/or slightly
restless, about 1 point is deducted from the exercise. If the dog is
very inattentive and/or considerably restless, around 2 points are
deducted. If the dog does not watch the helper, yet remains close to
the helper, around 3 points are deducted. If the dog leaves the
helper, 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 (ended).
4. Defense of an Attack
from the Guarding Phase: 35 points
a) Voice Commands
Commands for release
(the “out”) and finish to heel position: Aus, Fuß
b) Performance
After about 5 seconds
of the guarding Phase, the helper on order of the judge undertakes
an attack on the dog. Without influence by the handler, the dog must
defend itself through energetic and robust gripping. It may attack
the helper only on the Schutzhund sleeve. Once the dog has grabbed
the helper, 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 mus
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