We unfortunately live in a time when everyone seems to be pressed for time. We rarely have the time to spend time with those we care about and when we do it is often not face to face but rather through a phone or the computer. Sometimes it is nice to be able to spend some enjoying the company around us. If you love dogs and the people who like dogs then Schutzhund training may be the answer you seek.
Schutzhund means protection dog in German and that is where this style of dog sport originated. Originally it was not a competitive sport but rather a way for breeders to find the best breeding stock. Over time it grew into a structured sport governed by standardized regulations. It is open to any type of dog as long as they can meet the basic requirements. You can see a fantastic free Schutzhund training video HERE.
If you want to now if your dog has what it takes to make it in a Schutzhund competition, it is probably best to start with basic obedience training. Not every dog has the correct temperament or personality for the somewhat stringent training. Competitions are broken down into three phases and so the training process will include all three.
The first leg of training involves tracking. For most dogs this is the easiest part of the training. All they need to do is capitalize on their inherent ability to track down things using their nose. The most difficult part for them may be learning to tune out any and all distractions they may encounter along the way.
The next stage is the obedience training. This phase proves more difficult for many dogs, and their handler's, because they not only need to strictly follow the commands given, but they must do it while others are actively trying to distract them. There is even a portion where they must ignore the sounds and smells of gun fire.
The final phase is the one most misunderstood by those opposed to the sport. Although the training does involve teaching the dog to attack or defend on command, it is not about creating a vicious dog or even one trained to do damage to a person like a police dog. This phase is about the handler's ability to control his dog and the dogs ability to control his or herself. When not being ordered to be aggressive the dog most be pleasant and evenly tempered.
If you are looking for a great way to spend some time in a close knit community of dog aficionados then you need to look no further than your closest Schutzhund training club. As it is the fastest growing dog sport in North America, there is bound to be one near you. There you will find great dogs and perhaps even a few great friends.
Schutzhund means protection dog in German and that is where this style of dog sport originated. Originally it was not a competitive sport but rather a way for breeders to find the best breeding stock. Over time it grew into a structured sport governed by standardized regulations. It is open to any type of dog as long as they can meet the basic requirements. You can see a fantastic free Schutzhund training video HERE.
If you want to now if your dog has what it takes to make it in a Schutzhund competition, it is probably best to start with basic obedience training. Not every dog has the correct temperament or personality for the somewhat stringent training. Competitions are broken down into three phases and so the training process will include all three.
The first leg of training involves tracking. For most dogs this is the easiest part of the training. All they need to do is capitalize on their inherent ability to track down things using their nose. The most difficult part for them may be learning to tune out any and all distractions they may encounter along the way.
The next stage is the obedience training. This phase proves more difficult for many dogs, and their handler's, because they not only need to strictly follow the commands given, but they must do it while others are actively trying to distract them. There is even a portion where they must ignore the sounds and smells of gun fire.
The final phase is the one most misunderstood by those opposed to the sport. Although the training does involve teaching the dog to attack or defend on command, it is not about creating a vicious dog or even one trained to do damage to a person like a police dog. This phase is about the handler's ability to control his dog and the dogs ability to control his or herself. When not being ordered to be aggressive the dog most be pleasant and evenly tempered.
If you are looking for a great way to spend some time in a close knit community of dog aficionados then you need to look no further than your closest Schutzhund training club. As it is the fastest growing dog sport in North America, there is bound to be one near you. There you will find great dogs and perhaps even a few great friends.
About the Author:
Schutzhund training in today's world has shot up in popularity. So many people would like to train their puppy in this way. Would you like some free videos on top schutzhund training?
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