Schutzhund

Schutzhund or IPO Poodles

Schutzhund is a German word that means protection dog.  It was originally developed as a breed evaluation test for German Shepherd Dogs.  Intended to check physical traits such as strength, agility, and scenting ability, it also tested the dog’s courage, trainability, desire to work, and perserverance.  Early breeders used the test to select breeding stock to maintain working ability. 

The FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) has named it IPO, International Prufungorden, meaning international working tests.  Titles in the U.S. are offered by the United Schutzhund Clubs of America as well as several other clubs associated with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America.  The AKC will recognize these titles for a limited number of breeds; Poodles are not included.

 There are three parts to Schutzhund: obedience, tracking, and protection work.  The obedience and tracking portions are similar to the tests of other organizations, although there are some differences in the requirements and style of performance of the dog.  The protection phase is meant to test the dog’s willingness to protect itself and its handler, as well as its ability to be controlled while doing so.  The dog must find a hidden man or helper, bark to notify the handler, then guard the helper.  The dog is expected to bite protective sleeve worn by the helper to hold him when he pretends to escape or threaten the dog’s handler, releasing the sleeve when told.

All three tests are scored, and the dog must pass all on the same day to earn a title at each level.  Before the dog can enter the first level, it must pass a temperament test to evaluate basic obedience and steadiness.