In every breed, the pedigree is the key to knowing the potential of the puppy. The sport of Schutzhund/IGP revolves around working lines—generations of dogs that have proven themselves and produced similar characteristics in their offspring. These characteristics include not only the physical structure of the dog, but also its temperament. Selecting the bloodlines from which you want your puppy may require advice from reputable and experienced Schutzhund handlers or further research.

If possible, meet and observe the dog’s parents, specifically the mother (dam). The dam will be the main influence on the young puppy for the first six weeks of its life. If the dam is nervous or unsure, chances are this uncertainty will be transferred to the offspring.   When it comes to the puppy itself, a puppy well fit for Schutzhund/IGP should be adventurous and active, playing with toys shown to it by someone in an enclosure. It should also be independent enough to take that toy and go off on its own. Independence and confidence will help your puppy develop the traits of trainability that you need.

If you have an older puppy or dog that you think would benefit from Schutzhund you would look for the same traits: clear-headed, confidence in both familiar and new situations, drive for a ball/toy/food, independence, pursuing you rapidly when you run away, defending itself, protecting its owner, self-control, focus, obedience, intelligence, and other characteristics and behaviors.

Our club includes dogs that started as puppies and older dogs who came to the sport after puppyhood.  To have your puppy or dog evaluated by our training director, head over to our contact page and send us a message!  <insert link to contact form>

Resources

• United Schutzhund Club of America: https://www.germanshepherddog.com/
• Hallmark K-9: https://www.hallmarkk9.com/
• Elite K-9: https://www.elitek9.com/
• For Dog Trainers: https://www.fordogtrainers.com/