Schutzhund-Versatility Test Level-1
(SchH-1/VPG-1)
for working dogs.
(IPO is identical)
Three divisions:
Phase A100 points
Phase B100 points
Phase C100 points
Total:300 points
SchH/VPG-1, Phase "A", TRACKING
Search (unguided): at least 300 steps, 3 legs,
2 corners (approx. 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 |
|
Dropped 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 weathered
or worn personal items (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.
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 long tracking lead can lie over the back, at the side, or between
the front legs and/or hind legs. It can either be directly fastened
to the “dead ring” of the collar or to a harness (allowed are a
chest harness or a Böttger harness, without additional straps.
After being called 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 are incorrect picking up
or indicating of the articles, and points are deducted accordingly.
If the dog leaves the track more than around 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.
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
(see above). 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 an exercise.
Between the parts of an exercise and at its conclusion, clear pauses
(approx. 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 parts of the exercises. 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 Performance
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.
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 without stopping, leaning, or crowding. 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 heeling routine,
two gunshots (approx. 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/Sitz
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.
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 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 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, 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 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), and 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 approx. 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 or the 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, 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 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, Sit/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 approx. 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,
Sit/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 approx. 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 3 points is made.
___________________________________________________________________
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 (blinds), 3 blinds
on each side of the field, in a staggered 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.] (See also "helper regulations"
in 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 |
First additional (2nd) command with
immediate Out” |
First additional (2nd) command with
hesitant |
Second additional (3rd) commandwith
immediate “Out” |
Second additional (3rd) commandwith
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 (sweeping
the field side-to-side), 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 Insufficient (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 Insufficient.
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 one point is deducted
from the exercise. If the dog is very inattentive and/or considerably
restless, around two points are deducted. If the dog does not watch
the helper, yet remains close to the helper, around three 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 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. The padded stick is not taken from the helper.
c) Evaluation/Scoring
Not meeting the essentials of 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 restless, about one point is deducted
from the exercise. If the dog is very inattentive and/or considerably
restless, around two points are deducted. If the dog does not guard
the helper, yet remains at the helper, around three points are deducted.
If the dog leaves the helper to meet the approaching handler, the
exercise will be rated Insufficient. 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
(ended).
5. Running Attack on the Dog (Long-distance
Defense)30 points
a) Commands
Commands for sitting, attack/defend, “out”, finish,
heel, march (move out) = Sit, Stell or Voran (or equivalent such
as Packen!), Aus, Fuss.
b) Performance
The handler proceeds with his dog to the designated
place on the center of the field in line 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 steps from his
hiding-place at the other end of the field, furnished with a padded
stick, and goes in a normal walk to the center line [then proceeds
to threaten and attack the team]. In this approach toward the handler
and his dog, as soon as the helper gets to within 40 to 30 steps
of them, the handler on signal from the judge releases his dog with
the command ("Packen! etc.") for defense. The dog must
avert the attack without hesitation, through energetic and robust
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 go to 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 grip 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: 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 restless, about one point is deducted
from the exercise. If the dog is very inattentive and/or considerably
restless, around two points are deducted. If the dog does not guard
the helper, yet remains at the helper, around three points are deducted.
If the dog leaves the helper to meet the approaching handler, the
exercise will be rated Insufficient. 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
(ended).
_______________________________________________________________________
Notes by the translator:
- Fuß = Fuss. Literally, “Fuß!”. The German language is undergoing
modernization, and many words with the “esset” ß (looks like
the Greek “beta” or English capital B) are being changed to
a double-s instead. Thus, a castle (a Schloß) may now be a Schloss
(German nouns are capitalized). Proper names retain the ß.
- Commands (imperative mood, whether emphasized or not) in
the past always ended with exclamation marks. Now the trend
is not to use them, although they really are useful in the context
of dog training: Hier! Fuss! Platz! etc.
