Schutzhund is a German dog sport becoming increasingly popular in the United States. The word itself translates literally into "protection dog".
The purpose of Schutzhund training is to teach the dog focus and control through obedience while simultaneously assessing and molding the dog's natural abilities to track and protect. It has been considered by some to be a test for breeding in that during the training the degree to which the dog possesses these working abilities becomes apparent.
There are three levels of Schutzhund trial and title: SchH I or novice; SchH II or intermediate; and SchH III or advanced.
All of which must be preceeded by the acheivement of the BH, or German companion dog title.
To be capable of Schutzhund training, it is essential that the dog have a sound temperament. It cannot be shy, sharp, vicious, or have poor nerves. |