Puppy Training: What is Schutzhund and IPO?
Schutzhund and IPO training programs are designed for dogs that will be used in protection work. Schutzhund and IPO testing is used to distinguish the best dogs for this role. These dogs then can go on to breed a top line of working dogs. It is a much disciplined program that only the elite can successfully manage.
History
The world Schutzhund translates to “Protection dog”. Over 100 years ago in Germany, Von Stephanitz decided to do something about the declining quality of herding dogs. Many of these dogs existed but good quality was becoming more and more difficult to obtain. He designed a port called Schutzhund. The first competition was held in 1901. It was a sporting event was used to evaluate the ability of working dogs. The sheer difficulty of this sport helped to eliminate dogs that did not possess the high skills needed to maintain an elite breed. Those that excelled at the competitions were used in breeding to once again produce a superior line of working dogs.
IPO is short for Internationale Prüfungs-Ordnung. In 2004 Schutzhund began to adjust their rules to match IPO, the international standard. As a result the two types of competitions became the same, the only difference was the governing body. Thus Schutzhund and IPO are often referred too at the same time as they were basically the same training. In January 2012 another large rule change came into effect. The Schutzhund titles 1-3, based on level of dog training was removed. The FCI (The Fédération Cynologique Internationale) now only recognizes the IPO levels 1-3 titles.
Schutzhund/IPO training and testing are focused the main following abilities. Both the canine and the handler are judged on their skills and their ability to work together.
Obedience
Schutzhund and IPO competitions require extreme discipline and obedience. The owner must be in full control of their dog at all times during the competition. This is not an easy task when you consider the enormous amount of distractions that both the dog and the owner face while being tested. The dog is tested on their willingness to work and their ability to respond to commands while staying focused on the job at hand.
Tracking
The dog being testing during the tracking phase must demonstrate an ability to quickly identify objects and alert their handler then they have been located. They must stay completely focused on their task of locating the desired articles without being distracted by surrounding factors.
Protection
Protection is probably the most publicly known part of Schutzhund or IPO training. The dog is to locate and detain a specific individual, the helper. The dog must first locate them, as they are hidden somewhere on the testing course. Once the helper has been found, the dog must alert their trainer to their location. They must detain the helper on the spot where they have located them. During testing the helper will test the dog by trying to escape. When this happens the dog must apprehend them. The helper wears a training sleeve for this. It is extremely important to note that helpers are trained professionals that work with dogs regularly. This is not an experiment that should be tried at home. During this entire phase of testing, the dog must also be fully aware of commands from their trainer. They must release, or apprehend each time they are commanded to do so. They must remained focused on the helper but immediately respond to the trainer.
The Breeds
Levels 1-3 of Schutzhund or IPO training coordinate with the skill levels of the dog being tested. There is official recognition for each level. While this is open to all types of dogs, this competition is generally dominated by German Shepherd’s.
It is important to realize that many dogs can perform these tasks but there is a select few who excel at them. If you are interested in owning a dog from these top blood lines, then there are organizations in your area that can direct you to breeders who work with them. While this has been misunderstood as an abusive sport, this is hardly the case. Both dogs and trainers that are involved in Schutzhund and IPO, excel at it because it is what they love to do. Neither could perform at such a disciplined level if they did not have the love and determination to shine in this field. It takes dedication and commitment from both the trainer and the dog. A commitment that will create a bond that will last a lifetime.
Natural Relief for Dogs Suffering from Hip Dysplasia
Does your dog suffer from hip dysplasia? If you have concerns about treating your dog’s pain and discomfort with drugs, there are natural remedies that are quickly gaining the attention of the pet owners’ community due to their high success rate and absence of harmful side effects.
Natural remedies for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia typically contain a combination of herbal and other plant based materials. The fact that the ingredient list is built from foods, not synthetics, means the supplement is far easier on the dog’s system. The dog’s body recognizes and processes foods as part of its daily operation. Unknown substances, such as synthetics, that enter a dog’s system are also dealt with effectively, but often with side effects as the dog’s body adapts to the unfamiliar agent.
That is not to say that drugs should not be used to treat dogs suffering from hip dysplasia. Far from it! The goal is to stop your beloved pet from suffering and if a veterinarian prescribed Aspirin or other medication works for your dog, that is not a bad thing. However, some dog owners are reluctant to give their pet that type of medication and others find their dog reacts badly to or simply cannot tolerate a drug. In those cases, natural remedies become an option to effectively relieve the dog’s pain.
One such natural remedy is Winston’s Joint Formula. The ingredient list for Winston’s Joint Formula includes calcium; magnesium; phosphours; copper; manganese; zinc; and Vitamins A, E and C. In addition to these beneficial minerals, some capsules also contain buckwheat, parsley, alfalfa meal, and pineapple juice powder. These, in addition to several other natural ingredients, provide a whole-body wellness approach to relieving the pain your dog feels from hip dysplasia.
Winston’s Joint Formula is a natural food supplement, much like the food supplements humans take to ensure optimal health. While many humans try to eat a proper, balanced diet, there are many times when life factors intervene and dinner becomes takeout on the way home instead of that nice home cooked meal that was planned. Although there is no substitute for eating well, supplements go a very long way in making up the dietary shortfall. The same holds true for dogs. Regular good, balanced meals combined with love, affection and exercise will keep your dog in optimal health. However, diseases such as hip dysplasia, lack of time to do more than provide a scoop of generic dog food from a bag, or other factors can necessitate the reality of providing a dietary support for your pet. Supplements such as Winston’s Joint Formula fill the dietary gaps in your dog’s diet and go a long way in easing the symptoms of diseases such as hip dysplasia.
We are all looking for ways to be healthier and that extends to our pets as well. If your dog suffers from or is predisposed to hip dysplasia, consider using a natural food supplement that will increase your dog’s overall health in addition to treating the symptoms of the disease.