The events are public in character; place and time of the trial are to be publicly announced to the members. The member organizations of the AZG are bound by the scope of these provisions.

The trial rules are divided into the following:

For events not of the nature of a trial, the regulations of each respective valid trial rules are applicable.

Protection only events are not permitted.

DH-PO 1 is equivalent to SchH 2

DH-PO 2 is equivalent to SchH 3

The beginning and end of the trial season is established each year by the AZG.

Saturday, Sunday and holidays

After 12 noon, Friday may be used as a trial day only in conjunction with Saturday or Saturday and Sunday, if an excessive number of entries are received. A Friday only trial is not permitted.

Within the framework of a two-day trial, the BH test may be held on the first day and on the following day the Schutzhund trial can take place. In that case, no excessive number of entries is required to hold a trial on Friday.

Exception: Holiday regulations in the individual states or the special regulations of the AZG member organizations respectively are to be observed.

If more than 10 dogs are entered for the FH, a 2nd judge is to be appointed by the sanctioning office. If the 2nd judge oversees the laying of the tracks, he must also sign the trial documents.

Distribution within a trial of the number of parts per trial division [i.e., a BH counts as 2 parts, SchH/IPO titles are 3 parts each, etc.]:

Basically, a trial judge may judge up to 30 divisions, or parts, in a single day and up to 15 parts on a Friday.

If an AD is scheduled with a trial, it is left up to the judge whether or not he wishes to conduct the AD. The judge is under no requirement to do so.

Dogs, which were entered in the trial, may enter the AD. The AD participants are not required to be added to the number of trial entries.

A minimum of 4 participants are required to hold a trial. They can be a combination of Schutzhund, IPO, FH, BH, WH and Rescue Dog entries.

Each handler is permitted to repeat an existing title without a waiting period, but not within the same trial. Only dogs, which appear to be healthy, may participate in a trial.

A dog may be entered in only one trial level per trial, with the exception of the BH test. [Explanation: A dog may earn the BH title on one day of a 2-day trial and then a SchH 1 on the second day.]

Once a dog has earned either a Schutzhund or IPO title, a waiting period of 4 weeks is required before the dog may be entered for the next higher title. No waiting period is required from a BH to a SchH 1 or FH and from any Schutzhund title to an FH, so long as the dog has attained the minimum age for entry.

Club events are open to all members of VDH affiliated associations/organizations.

Before a dog may participate in its first Schutzhund trial, proof must be submitted of a passed BH test conducted within an AZG member organization.

Dogs that have earned a title in a foreign country but are now owned in Germany must provide proof of a passed BH earned within a AZG member organization before being allowed to participate for additional Schutzhund or IPO titles in Germany.

Dogs from foreign countries that become German owned must provide proof of a passed BH under an AZG recognized judge before being allowed to participate further trials.

Dogs that remain permanently under foreign ownership and are in Germany to participate in a trial, by submitting a foreign scorebook are exempt from the requirement of a passed BH test within an AZG member organization. However, the dog may be entered only for an IPO title.

Service dogs with Service Dog (DH) titles or dogs with proven HGH titles are not required to show proof of a passed BH test before participating in a Schutzhund trial.

In order to participate in an FH, submission of a scorebook showing a passed BH and/or SchH/IPO 1 under an AZG recognized judge is necessary proof for entry.

An FH title will only be recognized as a breeding suitability title as required under the breed, conformation breed show and breed survey (Körung) rules of the breed clubs when combined with a passed Schutzhund or IPO title.

Titles will only be recognized if they were earned in an AZG or FCI recognized working dog club or an FCI recognized working dog breed club under an FCI recognized judge.

For dogs with VDH registered pedigrees, a copy of the trial results of breed or working trials will be forwarded to the respective breed office by the office receiving the trial results paperwork.

Dogs that are not registered with a VDH recognized breed club are to be listed on all trial paperwork only by the call name.

Bitches in heat may participate in all events. They must be placed at the end of the lineup at the end of the trial. If there are several bitches in heat, they are to draw for position among them for equal opportunity.

Every AZG member organization may establish its own entry requirements for championship and qualification trials, which may contain unusual provisions.

Participants in an AZG member organization sanctioned event can be any handler who can show proof of a current valid membership for himself and the owner of the dog in a VDH or FCI recognized club/organization.

Handlers and owners of dogs that are entering the Augsburger-Modell/Team-Test or participating in a training course are not required to show proof of club membership.

Regardless of the outcome of a single part [of the trial], a handler must show his dog in all sections, assuming that the judge is given no grounds for breaking off the trial. If a dog is injured during the trial and/or its ability to perform is diminished, the judge has the right, even against the wishes of the handler, to terminate the trial for this dog.

If a dog is pulled from a trial because of illness after completing one or more of the sections, the handler must consult a veterinarian and have the dog's illness verified. Entry in the scorebook = Terminated because of illness.

If the handler refuses to take the dog to a veterinarian, the entry is to read: Unsatisfactory because of Quitting. (see Judges' Handbook)

Before admittance to a BH, Schutzhund, or FH, the participating dogs are to undergo a temperament test.

Assessment of the dog's temperament continues throughout the entire trial. Dogs that fail the temperament test are excluded from further participation in the trial.

If a dog exhibits unsatisfactory character in the course of the trial, even though it passed the initial temperament test, the judge has the right to disqualify the dog from the trial.

Entry [in the scorebook]: Temperament test failed.

Service dogs that are represented as such on the entry form are to be tested with consideration for the official use of [the dog].

In each section of a trial, the maximum score awarded is 100 points. A title can only be earned if the dog earns a minimum of 70 points in parts A and B (Tracking and Obedience) and a minimum of 80 points in part C (Protection).

The SchH A title is considered as passed if the dog earns a minimum of 70 points in part B (Obedience) and a minimum of 80 points in part C (Protection).

The following ratings can be given if the preceding minimum points were achieved:

If several dogs have the same total score, the winner is determined by the points earned in Part C. If this does not clarify the situation, the results of the points awarded in Part B will determine the winner. If the points are the same in all Parts A, B and C, identical placements will be awarded.

Dogs placed in the Aged Class, downgraded dogs and dogs repeating titles in SchH 1 and 2 are placed at the end.

Ratings for natural drives, self-confidence and toughness/resilience (ability to take pressure) are as follows:

a = pronounced (ausgeprägt)

vh = present (vorhanden)

ng = insufficient (nicht genügend)

[In German, these ratings are given for TSB, which stands for Triebveranlagung, Selbstsicherheit, and Belastbarkeit, words which are translated in the above sentence.]

At the beginning of the trial, each participant in turn reports to the judge in a sportsmanlike manner, stating his/her name and the name of the dog. The dog, either on or off lead, depending on the trial level of the dog, sits beside the handler.

Each participant must obey the instructions of the judge as well as the trial chairman.

The dog handler must show his/her dog in an impeccably sportsmanlike manner. Willful violations can result in exclusion from further participation in the trial. The presiding judge has the decision in all cases and the decision is incontestable. The decision of the trial judge is final. A protest against it is not permitted.

The judge critiques the individual exercises immediately after completion with a rating. Individual point deductions are not announced.

If several judges are used in the same division, the average of the points is the score.

A judge is not permitted to judge a dog which he/she owns or which is owned by one of the other judges assigned to the trial or to judge a dog whose owner or handler lives in the same household with him/her.

The judge is entitled to reimbursement for expenses according to the rules set by the respective organizations/associations. Waiving of expenses may not occur.

The organizing club bears the sporting and administrative responsibility for local club trials.

As organizer, the trial chairman may not show a dog in the trial and also may not undertake any other function in the trial.

A protection helper may show a dog and may also undertake other functions in the trial [i.e., tracklayer for dogs at a different level from his own dog, etc.].

At all trials beyond the local level, the trial chairman has the responsibility to have both a veterinarian and a medical doctor available if needed. At larger trials, a medical service is to be available on site.

The individual AZG member organizations determine the deadlines for assigning sanctioned trial dates.

Before the beginning of the trial, the trial chairman is to present the assigned judge with the trial confirmation from the responsible association or organization.

The trial chairman must provide the judge with the necessary judging books or scoring documents, in which all of the required details must have been recorded.

As a part of the duties of the organizer, the trial chairman must arrange for tracking fields that are both suitable and appropriate to the trial rules and provide the necessary number of competent tracklayers.

The trial chairman must arrange for adequate grounds for the carrying out of the obedience exercises and protection work. He/She is responsible for providing the trained helpers with safe protective clothing (jacket, pants and protection sleeve) as well as the necessary exercise equipment. A minimum of four (4) people is to be provided for a group.

In all sanctioned events in AZG member organizations, only the leather covered soft stick is permitted to be used.

For all sanctioned trial events, the organizer of the event must provide that blinds (either natural or artificial) are available on the trial field. The blinds are to be placed so that they are a minimum of 2 meters from either natural or artificial barriers and so that it is possible for the judge to see into the blind from a reasonable distance.

In purely local club trials, the Schutzhund 3 protection part may be worked with a single helper. In tournaments, elimination/qualification trials and in championships two helpers are to be used.

Each participant must verify by signing the trial entry form that he/she has liability insurance for his/her dog.

By law, the participating dog must be inoculated against rabies. The trial chairman has the responsibility to verify this.

All trial results regardless of the outcome of the trial are to be entered in all scorebooks.

The trial chairman must ensure the orderly running of the trial and remain at the disposal of the judge during the entire time of the trial. He must be careful that the trial documents in adequate number and already prepared are ready.

The club conducting the trial shall be sure that the judge is not expected to travel a long distance to a trial under adverse weather conditions. (See Judges' Handbook)

If a sanctioned trial is canceled by the club, the organizing club must justify (for example, insufficient number of entries) and the trial chairman must notify the responsible office of the AZG member organization as well as the judge, so that the judge will not needlessly be reminded to turn in the trial reports.

A dog must complete working a Schutzhund track within a maximum of 20 minutes from the start time, an FH 1 track within a maximum of 30 minutes and an FH 2 track no more than 40 minutes after starting.

The commands are to be given clearly and audibly as dictated (foreign handlers may use their native language).

If a handler confuses the order of the individual exercises in Part B (Obedience), the judge is obligated to halt the incorrect exercise with the instruction to the handler as to which exercise is to be shown next. There is no point deduction for this mistake.

Practice jumps during the trial are forbidden, as well as is rewarding the dog with food. It is also forbidden to place the retrieval dumbbell in the dog's mouth prior to the retrieval exercise. Carrying a toy is not permitted.

Body English by the handler is not permitted and will result in a point deduction if used.

A handler is allowed to show an exercise in an incorrect manner on the basis of a physical disability, so long as he/she has informed the judge of this prior to the beginning of the trial. If the disability does not allow the handler to heel the dog on the left side, the dog may be similarly heeled on the right side.

For insurance reasons, the handler must carry a lead throughout the entire course of the trial. This includes that the dog must also always were a collar.

Only single link collars [i.e., choke chain or fur-saver type collars] are permitted. The collar may not be equipped with prongs, spikes or hooks. It must fit loosely. Leather collars or flea and tick collars are not permitted.

Dogs that do not remain under the handler's control are to be dismissed from the trial. Furthermore, the trial divisions are to be terminated if continuation of the exercise is no longer possible. For example:

If a handler is dismissed from a trial because of disobedience on the part of his dog, no score is entered into the scorebook, but instead "Terminated because of Disobedience" is recorded in the scorebook.

The event organizer or chairman is responsible for guaranteeing order and safety within the entire trial or event grounds.

The judge is authorized, because of failure to observe the rules or for safety reasons, to suspend or terminate the trial.

Gross violations by the handler against these regulations, against the trial rules, against the animal protection laws and against the rules of common decency may lead to expulsion from the trial.

In this case, the judge must deliver a report to the appropriate association/organization. Following this, a statement will be requested from the parties concerned (club, group, handler, trial chairman, witnesses), which can then lead to a decision about the disciplinary penalty (reprimand, suspension, expulsion).

Expulsion must be determined in the disciplinary committees of the associations/organizations. A report is to be made in every case to the AZG Headquarters. Upon the expulsion of the handler from a club or an organization, the expulsion of the member may be published in the respective association's/organization's magazine.

The decision of the judge is incontestable. Any criticism of the decision of the decision can bring about expulsion from the trial field and eventual disciplinary action.

In legitimate cases, which don't relate to the factual decisions, but rather violations of the rules by the judge, it is possible to file a complaint. This complaint is to be submitted in writing to the appropriate association/organization. It can only be submitted by the trial/event chairman and must be signed by the complainant, the president of the club/member organization and one of the additional witnesses. This complaint must be received within 8 days following the incident. No right of revision of the judge's decision is derived by the acceptance of such a complaint.

Within a track different articles must be used. They may not differ substantially in color from the terrain and not exceed the size of a billfold.

Materials: leather, vinyl, cloth and wood.

In Schutzhund 2, 3 and FH, the articles are to be given to the tracklayer far enough in advance so that they can wear them on their body for a minimum of 30 minutes before laying the track.

In SchH 1, the handler's own articles are to be used. The handler should be sure that these are also well scented. The handler must show these to the judge before laying the track.

The tracklayer must show the articles to the judge before laying the track. Only commonly used articles as described are to be used.

The judge is responsible for:

• layout of the course of the track
• instructing the tracklayer(s)

The handler may not be present during the laying of the tracks in SchH 2, 3 and the FH's. During the laying of the SchH 1 track, the dog must remain out of sight.

It is to be marked by a flag or placard placed directly on the left side of the start and must remain there during the working of the track.

The tracklayer remains at the start (light stepping in place is permitted).

The tracklayer proceeds at a normal pace in the direction specified by the judge. Scuffing or interrupting the pace is not allowed.

The number of legs is designated by the trial rules according to the respective trial level.

The corners (about 90º) are also to be developed at a normal pace, during which the tracklayer is to be sure that it is possible for the dog to continue tracking directly into the next leg of the track. A break in the continuity of the track may not occur.

The articles are to be placed on the track while moving. After placing the last article at the end of the track, the tracklayer is to go forward in the same direction for a few paces.

Level 1: The first article is to be placed optionally in the middle of the first or second leg, In accordance with the decision of the handler, second article at the end of the track.

Level 2: The first article is placed in the middle of the second leg, the second article at the end of the track.

Level 3: First article is placed a minimum after 100 paces into the track (possibly on the second leg), the second article approximately in the middle of the second or third leg and the third article at the end of the track.

FH 1: The first article is placed a minimum after 250 paces into the track (first or second leg); articles two and three at the judge's command and the fourth article at the end of the track.

FH 2: Placement of the articles takes place at the judge's command.

In working the track, the following are possible in handling the dog on the track:

a) Collar

b) Tracking Harness

c) Track Off-Lead

• over the back
• to the side
• or between the front and/or back legs.

The participants will draw for their position in SchH 2, 3 and FH after the tracks have been laid. The draw is to be carried out by either the judge or the trial chairman.

The handler reports to the judge in the basic position and specifies if the dog picks up or indicates the articles.

The dog is taken calmly to the start of the track. No type of compulsion or influence is permitted [at the scent pad].

Starting the dog on the track must take place next to the dog, not at a distance. This is true also when starting the dog after finding the articles. A certain amount of play in the line must be available to the handler.

The dog should take the scent at the start calmly and intensely. Taking the scent is to occur without help from the handler (except for giving the command "Such" or "Track"). There is no specified time to be spent at the start of the track.

Once the dog has successfully taken the scent, it must begin tracking behavior appropriate to working out the track.

A restart is not permitted at any trial level further into the running of the track.

A restart occurs only if the handler brings the dog to heel and on the collar or on a short line restarts the dog.

In the FH 1, the handler can restart the dog one additional time within the first 15 paces from the starting point. There will be a deduction of up to 4 points.

If the dog has taken the scent and follows it, the handler must remain at the start until the end of the line or the required distance of 10 meters is reached. Leaving the start pad too soon is incorrect.

The dog has to follow the track intensely with a deep nose at a steady pace.

A fast or slow tracking performance is not a criteria in the judging, if the track is worked uniformly and convincingly.

The tracking line may sag, but may not substantially reduce the distance between the dog and handler. Touching the ground [by the line] is not faulty.

The corners are to be worked confidently. Checking, without leaving the track, is not faulty. Circling at the corner is faulty. After working out the corner, the dog is to continue working the track at the same speed.

Indication of the articles is to occur convincingly, in the direction of the track and directly at the article.

Indicating the article in a slightly crooked position is not incorrect. Turning sideways when indicating or turning back towards the handler is faulty. Articles that are indicated or picked up only with strong handler help are counted as not found.

The dog may indicate the articles by standing, sitting or lying down or any of these positions interchangeably.

Picking up and indicating the articles is incorrect.

If the dog picks up the article, it can stand, sit or come to the handler. Going forward with the article or picking it up in the down position is incorrect. If the dog retrieves the article, the handler may not go towards the dog. As soon as the dog has found an article, it must immediately pick it up or convincingly indicate it without influence from the handler. Indicating the article and picking it up at the same time is incorrect. The handler drops the line and immediately goes to the dog. The handler notifies the judge that articles have been found by raising them up in the air!

If the handler goes to the dog to take the article or to hold it up, the handler must stand next to the dog.

The dog must remain calmly in the position to article was indicated or picked up until the handler starts the dog again with a short line.

If the dog indicates an article not dropped [by the tracklayer] or discontinues tracking, for example by lying down, sitting or standing, this is incorrect and a point deduction will be imposed. If the dog will start working again at a command from the handler given from the end of the 10-meter line, only 2 points will be deducted. This will not be regarded as a false indication. If the handler goes to the dog, this will be considered as a false indication and 4 points will be deducted.

If the handler restrains the dog from leaving the track, the judge will instruct the handler to follow the dog. The handler must follow this instruction. If the dog leaves the track by more than the length of the tracking line (or by over 10 meters by a dog tracking off-lead}, or if the handler does not obey the judge's instruction to follow the dog, tracking is terminated.

The dog can follow the cross track up to one lead length (point deduction). If the dog leaves the track by more than a lead length (or by over 10 meters by a dog tracking off lead), tracking must be terminated.

During tracking, if the dog goes into hunting drive because of the appearance of wild game, the handler can attempt to get the dog under control with a "Down" ["Platz"] command. At the judge's instruction, tracking is to be continued. If this is unsuccessful, tracking is terminated.

Occasional praising and giving the tracking command, "Track" ["Such"] permitted at all trial levels. Exception: at the corners and at the articles.

After tracking is concluded, the articles found are to be shown to the judge. Playing with or feeding [the dog] after raising the last article and before reporting back [to the judge] is not permitted.

The handler reports back to judge with the dog in the basic position.

Construction: There is to be no solid cross bar/board within roughly the top 20 cm (about 8") of the jump, but instead it must be built in such a way that this part of the jump gives or flexes when touched or hit by the dog.

Construction: See figure above. The following are the proper dimensions.

Length of sides: 191 cm (75")

Width of wall: 150 cm (59")

Height at top when spread
to trial height: 180 cm (71")

Distance at bottom of
uprights when spread to
trial height: 130 cm (51")

Position of cleats on wall: Top cleat: 25 cm from top of wall (approx. 10")
Middle cleat: 55 cm from top of wall (approx. 22")
Bottom cleat: 85 cm from top of wall (approx. 34")

VPG 1 = Dumbbell up to 650 gram
VPG 2 = On the flat, 1 kilo
Over the hurdle, 650 gram
Over the wall, 650 gram
VPG 3 = On the flat, 2 kilo
Over the hurdle, 650 gram
Over the wall, 650 gram

The above dumbbells present at the trial are to be used by all trial participants. The handler may not spit on the dumbbells.

The handler may not put the dumbbell in the dog's mouth prior to the retrieval exercises.

A blind is to be provided during the long down for the handler participating with a dog at the VPG 3 level.

Pistol/Caliber: 6 mm

At the beginning of every division of the trial, the participant is to report in to the judge in a sportsmanlike manner.

The handler is to enter the trial field with the dog on lead and report to the judge with the dog in the basic position.

The handler comes on to the field with the dog off-lead and reports to the judge with the dog in the basic position.

During the performance, the dog is to wear a collar and the handler is to have the lead with him/her.

Every exercise begins and ends with the dog in the basic position

The dog sits straight on the left side, next to the handler, with its right shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.

Taking the basic position at the beginning of each exercise is permitted only once.

The handler is to stand in a sportsmanlike manner when in the basic position. A straddle-legged position is not permitted. The ending basic position for one exercise can be used as the starting basic position for the following exercise.

At the signal from the judge and from the basic position, the build-up of all obedience exercises occurs -- the so-called "development".

The handler must show a minimum of 10 paces, but no more than 15, before giving the command for the exercise being performed, for the development of the following exercises:

• Sit out of Motion
• Down out of Motion (VPG 3 for both normal and fast)
• Walking Stand
• Running Stand
• Send Away (Voraus)

Errors in the basic position and in the development will influence the scoring of the individual exercises.

Between fronts and finishes and also when picking up the dog from the Sit in Motion and Walking Stand, a distinct pause is to be shown. A similar pause is to be shown when giving the sit command when picking the dog up from the long down.

The trial rules stipulate a minimum distance of 30 paces. It is left up to the handler to decide to go more than the minimum number of paces from the dog. The judge can stop the handler from going too far.

Praising the dog is permitted at the end of each exercise in the basic position. After that, the handler can take a new basic position. Between praising the dog and the start of a new exercise, the handler should show a distinct pause of about 3 seconds.

Between exercises, the dog must remain at heel. Freeing the dog and playing is not permitted.

The prescribed commands are established in the trial rules. If a dog does not perform the exercise after the command is given for the third time, the exercise is terminated.

Score: = 0 points!

For recalls, the dog's name can be used instead of "Here". Using both the dog's name in conjunction with the "Here" command is a double command and will be penalized with a deduction.

First additional command: Satisfactory (Befriedigend) for that part of the exercise

Second additional command: Unsatisfactory (Mangelhaft) for that part of the exercise

The dog should sit in front quickly, closely and straight. After the above stipulated pause (about 3 seconds), when given the finish command, the dog should quickly and tightly take the ending basic position. The dog may either go around the handler or perform the "flip" finish to the side.

Picking up the dog: The handler may go directly to the dogs side or go around the back of the dog.

At the heel command, the dog must happily and attentively follow closely with its shoulder at knee level with the handler in all speeds, about-turns and in the group.

In the on-lead heeling, the lead is to be in the handler's left hand and should be loose.

The dog must move straight next to the handler and when the handler halts, should quickly and automatically sit straight next to the handler. The dog should behave calmly and attentively.

In the changes of pace, the handler should be careful to clearly show the differences in speed: normal pace, fast pace (not sprinting) and slow pace.

The change of pace from fast to slow takes place with no interim normal pace.

The "Heel" command is permitted only at the beginning and at each change of pace.

The pace counts shown in the diagram represent minimum requirements.

Going through the group of moving people is shown both on-lead and off-lead in the BH, SchH A, SchH 1 and SchH 2 and off-lead only in SchH 3. The handler must circle around group members at least once to the left and once to the right (for example, in the form of the figure 8). The handler should halt at least once while going through the group near a person. It is left to the judge's discretion to require the exercise be repeated.

In the BH, SchH A, 1 and 2, following the on-lead work, the lead is removed outside of the group in the basic position.

The off-lead heeling of the dog begins in the BH, SchH A, 1 and 2 with the group work. After leaving the group off-lead, the handler is to take a new basic position.

Praising the dog is permitted after leaving the group only in the ending basic position.

If there is any doubt [about the dog's gunshot-sureness], the judge is required to establish gunshot indifference in this manner. The handler is requested to put the dog on lead. At a distance of about 15 paces, shots will again be fired by the judge, during which the dog must remain on a loosely hanging line.

If the dog appears to be gunshy, the dog is immediately dismissed from the trial. No points are awarded.

The exercises, Sit, Down and Stand, are executed on a single command. An additional command is permitted only immediately following the first command. If the dog performs another exercise instead of the one commanded, points will be deducted.

If the dog doesn't retrieve the dumbbell after the third command, the exercise is terminated and zero points are awarded.

Sit out of Motion (Commands: "Heel"/"Fuß" and "Sit"/"Sitz")

From the basic position, the handler heels the dog off-lead in a straight line at a normal pace. After 10 to 15 paces, the handler gives the "Sit" command. The dog should immediately sit quickly without the handler breaking stride or looking back. The dog should sit calmly. After a minimum of 30 additional paces, the handler stops and immediately turns toward the dog. At the judge's command, the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position on the dog's right side.

If the dog lies down of stands instead of sitting, 5 points will be deducted in the BH, SchH A and SchH 1 and in SchH 2 and 3, 3 points will be deducted.

Down in Motion with Recall: (Commands: "Heel"/"Fuß", "Down"/"Platz", "Here"/"Hier" or the dog's name, "Heel"/"Fuß")

The dog must come directly to the handler, happily and quickly, and immediately sit close in front. At the command "Heel" ("Fuß") the dog should quickly assume the basic position.

If the dog stands or sits in the down in motion exercise, 5 points will be deducted for the error.

From the basic position, the handler goes straight ahead 10 to 15 steps at a normal pace, then gives another "Heel" ("Fuß") command and goes into the running pace. After an additional 10 to 15 paces, the exercise continues in the same manner as described in the BH, SchH A through SchH 2.

Walking Stand: (Commands: "Heel"/"Fuß", "Stand"/"Steh", "Sit"/"Sitz")
SchH 3
5 points

From the basic position the handler walks straight ahead with the dog heeling off lead. After 10 to 15 paces, the handler gives the "Stand" ("Steh") command. The dog should stop immediately and stand still, with the handler breaking stride or looking back. After a minimum of an additional 30 paces, the handler stops and immediately turns toward the dog. At the judge's command, the handler returns to the dog, takes a position on the dog's rights side and after about 3 seconds, commands the dog to sit.

If the dog sits or lies down after the stand command, 3 points will be deducted.

Running Stand: (Commands: "Heel"/"Fuß", "Stand"/"Steh", "Here"/"Hier" or the dog's name, "Heel"/"Fuß")
SchH 3
10 points

From the basic position, the handler runs straight ahead with the dog heeling off lead. After 10 to 15 paces, the handler gives the stand command. The dog should immediately stop and stand still, without the handler breaking stride or looking back. After a minimum of an additional 30 paces, the handler stops and immediately turns toward the dog. At the judge's command, the handler calls the dog with either a "Here" command or by using the dog's name. The dog must come directly to the handler, fast and happily and sit close in front of the handler.

At the "Heel"/"Fuß" command, the dog should quickly take the basic position.

If the dog sits or lies down after the stand command, 5 points will be deducted.

Retrieve on the Flat Ground: (Commands: "Bring"/"Bring", "Out"/"Aus", "Heel"/"Fuß")

The dog is to accompany the handler as the handler goes to pick up the dumbbell [for the retrieval exercises]. The dog must sit calmly off lead in the basic position until the handler gives the "Bring" command. The dumbbell should be thrown a minimum of 10 paces. The "Bring" command is not to be given until the dumbbell has stopped rolling. The dog should quickly run to the dumbbell, pick it up immediately and return quickly directly to the handler. The dog should immediately sit closely in front of the handler, holding the dumbbell in its mouth until the handler takes it (after about a 3 second pause) with the command, "Out"/"Aus". The handler holds the dumbbell on either the right or left side. After another 3 second pause, the handler commands the dog into the finish basic position.

One-Meter Hurdle: (Commands: "Hupp"/"Hopp", "Bring"/"Bring", "Out"/"Aus", "Heel"/"Fuß")

The handler should take the basic position in front of the jump in such a way that it is possible for the dog to make a clean jump. Until the "Hupp" command, the dog should sit calmly off lead in the basic position. The dumbbell should be thrown far enough that a clean return jump can be shown.

The "Hupp" command is not given until the dumbbell has stopped rolling.

Practice jumps during the performance of the trial routine are not permitted.

Scaling Wall: (Commands: "Hupp"/"Hopp", "Bring"/"Bring", "Out"/"Aus", "Heel"/"Aus")

The handler should take the basic position in front of the scaling wall so that it is possible for the dog to climb the wall. Until the "Hupp" command is given, the dog should sit calmly off lead in the basic position. The dumbbell should be thrown far enough that it is possible for the dog to return back over the wall. The "Bring" command is to be given as the dog is climbing over the wall.

The remainder of the performance is carried out comparable to the instructions given for the "Retrieve on the Flat Ground."

A practice climb over the wall during the performance of the trial routine is not permitted..

Dropping the dumbbell, hesitation when picking up the dumbbell, restless behavior, slow retrieval, playing or chewing = Deduction up to 4 points.

Send Out: (Commands: "Heel"/"Fuß", "Go"/"Voraus", "Down"/"Platz", "Sit"/"Sitz")

The judge designates the start position.

On further instruction from the judge, the handler walks straight ahead 10 to 15 paces in the designated direction with the dog heeling off lead. At the command "Go" the dog must go straight ahead at a rapid pace for a minimum of 30 paces. The handler remains in place. When giving the send out command, the handler is permitted to raise one arm. After reaching the required distance, but a minimum of 8 paces before the end of the field, the handler, either independently or at the judge's command, gives the "Down" command. If the judge tells the handler to give the command to down, the Handler must instantly give the "Down" command.

The dog should immediately down.

At the judge's command, the handler walks to the right side of the dog and after the normal pause, puts the dog in the basic position with a "Sit" command.

Down under Distraction: (Commands: "Down"/"Platz", "Sit"/"Sitz")

At the beginning of the obedience routine for another dog, the handler downs the dog at a position designated by the judge. No lead or handler article is left with the dog. The handler stands about 30 paces from the dog. In the BH, SchH 1 and 2, the handler stands with his/her back to the dog; in SchH 3, the handler is out of sight. The handler may not leave the field during the exercise. During the down exercise, the dog must remain lying calmly. At the judge's command, the handler walks to the right side of the dog and after a brief pause, puts the dog in the basic position with the command, "Sit"/"Sitz". If the dog sits, stands or is restless or leaves the assigned position by up to 3 meters, partial points are awarded. If the dog leaves the assigned down position by more than 3 meters before the "Retrieve on the Flat Ground" exercise, no points are earned.

If the dog comes towards the handler when being picked up, the exercise is scored as "Satisfactory" (Befriedigend).

In the BH, a partial score may not be awarded if the dog leaves the long down position at any time during the other dog's obedience performance.

Whenever possible, bitches are placed at a separate designated down position.

(Commands are listed in the exercise information.)

1. On lead Heeling (15 points) See general information on Obedience for

2. Off Lead Heeling (20 points) Same as above for heeling pattern.

Exercises 1 (Heeling on Lead -- 10 points) and 2 (Heeling off Lead -- 15 points) are same as for SchH 1. The only difference is in the point values.

Exercise is performed same as for SchH 1. Only the point value is different.

Performed and valued identical to SchH 1.

Performed the same as for SchH 1, except the retrieve is done with the 1 Kilo dumbbell.

Performed same as for SchH 1, except the 650 gram dumbbell must be used.

Performed identical to SchH 1.

Performed according to the same pattern as for SchH 1 and 2, but simply done off lead only.

Performed identical to SchH 1 and 2.

Performed identical to SchH 2, using the same weight (650 gram) dumbbell.

Performed identical to SchH 1 and 2, except the dog is not put on lead when picked up from either the Send Away or the Long Down and the handler is placed out of sight of the dog during the Long Down.

The most important criteria for rating protection work are:

Belastbarkeit - ability to work under pressure; toughness; resilience

Selbstsicherheit - self-confidence

Nervenfestigkeit - steadfast nerves; sound nerves

Ausgeglichene Triebveranlagung - well balanced drives

Naturliches Aggressionsverhalten - naturally aggressive behavior

Fuhrigheit - responsiveness to handler

Protection work is divided into three (3) phases, in which the different character and drive tendencies will be addressed. In doing so, we differentiate into:

I. Search and Hold Exercises (including guarding phases)

II. Fighting Actions

III. Responsiveness to Handler - (obedience; optimum handler/dog relationship)

Besides natural aggression and drives, self-confidence and steady nerves are of great importance in the hold exercises.

a) drangvoll - intense

b) zielstrebig - purposeful

c) geht die angezeigten Verstecke direkt an - goes directly to the blinds indicated

d) lapt sich gut lenken und leiten - easy to control and direct

e) enges und aufmerksames Umlaufen der Verstecke - tightly and attentively circling of the blinds.

I.b) Hold and Bark (Including the guarding phases after the fighting actions):

By self-confident, attentive and above all enduring holds as well as sustained and energetic barking, the dog demonstrates his steady nerves as well as innate and good drives.

a) aufmerksam - attentive

b) markant (eng) - clear-cut (tight, close)

c) drangvoll - intense

e) dauerhaft bis zum abrufen - enduring until call out

f) selbstsicher - self-confident

a) anhaltend - sustained

b) energisch - energetic

All fighting actions consist of three (3) phases. Therein becomes apparent the determination, self-confidence and toughness of the dog.

1. readiness to fight and take defensive action
2. periods of stress/pressure (capacity for enduring stress, including behavior before the "out")
3. guarding

(Escape, Defense, Surprise Attack, Attack)

1) determination

2) self-confidence

3) forceful, calm and full bite

The dog must work energetically and self-confidently in all periods of stress. The dog must be unimpressed and withstand the Helper's attempt to influence [the dog] by pressure and stick hits.

1) energetic

2) self-confident

3) unimpressed (including behavior during the bite)

The dog must guard the Helper intently, self-confidently, attentively and closely.

1) close

2) attentive

Part of the dog's responsiveness is its willingness to show obedience throughout the entire protection work. This is especially demonstrated in these exercises - searches, transports, downs, outs and guarding phases.

1) Control in the report [to the judge] and during the blind search

2) quick "outs"

3) tight heeling in conjunction with intently watching the Helper

4) quickly coming on the call out [from the blind]

In judging protection, the bite has considerable significance. Especially in judging the bite, it is possible for the judge to recognize and emphasize the quality of the dog being shown.

The bite has to be fundamentally full, hard, forceful, calm and steady. Judging the quality of the dog on the basis of his behavior during the bite has to take place over the entire protection work. At the same time, among other things, the Helper's behavior, is to be taken into account. So care is to be taken that in the escape, not only the fullness of the bite, but more importantly, effectively preventing [the escape] as a matter of priority must be considered.

In every case, at the beginning of Part C [Protection], the Handler must report to the judge.

If the handler and dog cannot report in accordance with the rules, i.e., for example, the dog breaks and runs to the blind where the Helper is, the handler is allowed three (3) commands to call the dog back. If the dog does not return after 3 commands, protection is terminated.

Commands: "Go On" (Voran) or "Search" (Revier) and "Here" (Hier) (The command, "Here", can also be given in conjunction with the dog's name)

From the basic position, the dog is started with verbal and/or visual commands. The search is to be shown in a forward direction. The Handler walks at a normal pace along an imaginary center line of the field. At a single command, the dog goes purposefully, intently, directly and attentively to the blind (looks in the blind) or tightly circles it.

Dispensing with the blind search (sending the dog directly to the Helper) is not permitted.

As soon as the dog reaches the Helper, he must bark without biting. The Handler remains on the centerline of the field. Without help from the Handler, the dog must attentively, tightly, intently and self-confidently hold [the helper] until the call out, continuously and energetically barking. No commands are allowed during the Hold and Bark. Special value is placed on the self-confident and intense behavior of the dog.

Intense, tight circling is partly permissible.

If the dog leaves the Helper before the Handler is instructed by the judge to leave the center of the field, the dog, at the judge's command, can be sent again [to the blind]. If the dog now remains at the Helper, protection can be continued, and the "Hold" exercise is scored as insufficient. If the dog will not go to the blind or again leaves the helper, protection must be terminated.

If the dog goes toward the Handler when the Handler approaches the blind, a partial score results. If the dog leaves the helper before the judge's command to pick up (or call out) the dog, likewise this earns a partial score.

In the transports, the dog must heel tightly, watch the Helper attentively and at the halt, quickly assume the basic position. In the Back Transport, the distance from the Handler to the Helper is a maximum of five (5) paces. The judge determines the transport patterns.

Incorrect side transports or disarming [of the helper] will in each case be deducted from the preceding exercise.

At the judge's command, the Handler approaches his dog at a normal pace on a direct course. With the command, "Sit" (Sitz), he puts the dog in the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the dog's behavior can be reinforced with the command "Sit" (Sitz). Dogs that take the down position after the out can remain in this position. The down position can likewise be reinforced with the command, "Down" (Platz). Before going into the Back Transport, the dog is to take the basic position with the command, "Sit" (Sitz).

See the individual exercises.

After the fighting action is discontinued, the dog has to let go without assistance. The Handler can give the first "Out" command independently within a reasonable amount of time. If the dog does not "Out" after the first command allowed, the Handler receives the judge's instructions for two possible additional "Out" commands.

When giving the "Out" commands, the Handler is to stand quietly without exerting influence on the dog.

* The Helper stands still on the judge's command,

* The dog immediately "Outs",

* One command "Out" (Aus) is allowed (w/o point deduction), and

* The dog must guard the Helper.

1st command allowed, slow to very slow out = -.5 to -3.0 points

2nd command (1st additional command), immediate out = -3.0 points

2nd command (1st additional command), slow to very slow out = -3.5 to -6.0 points

3rd command (2nd additional command), immediate out = -6.0 points

3rd command (2nd additional command), slow to very slow out = -6.5 to -9.0 points

(Pick up the table for outs from the Judge's Handbook - complete page-)

1) The above points apply only to the "Out". Further incorrect behavior of the dog in protection is scored according to the usual scoring method.

2) If the dog does not out after the 3rd command (2nd additional command), during the following exercises, protection is terminated:

a) SchH 2/IP0 2 in Exercise 3, "Escape"

b) SchH 3/IP0 3 in Exercise 3, "Escape" and Exercise 5b, "Pursuit"

In all other exercises, protection can be continued if the dog outs by the time the handler picks up the dog. However, the handler must be at an appropriate distance to the dog [by the time he outs].

3) The use of the command "Down" (Platz) in order to hold the dog at the helper means protection work is terminated.

4) Physical influence by the handler [i.e., touching the dog] on the "Out" means protection is terminated.

5) An exercise will be rated unsatisfactory [M = Mangelhaft] if a dog receives the command of "Down" [Platz] to "Out".

Additional verbal or visual commands and other influences result in termination.

Should the dog's name be used, this counts as an additional command.

a) Drive [Triebveranlagung] T
b) Self Confidence [Selbstsicherheit] S
c) Toughness, resilience [Belastbarkeit] B
Classifications for this are:

"Ausgeprägt" (Pronounced) = a
"Vorhanden" (Sufficient, Present) = vh
"Nicht genugend (Insufficient) = ng

1. Ausgeprägt (Pronounced)

Self-confident, intense, determined and confidently biting and holding on tightly; no negative reaction to stick hits, closely and attentively watching in hold and guard phases.

Minor variations from the above statements under certain circumstances still allow for an "a" rating!

2. Vorhanden (Sufficient or Present)

For example, [the dog exhibits] limitations in self-confidence, in determination, in the bite and behavior under the stick hits or in the guarding phases.

3. Nicht genügend (Insufficient)

Deficient in self-confidence, strong limitations with regard to hardness and disinterest in the helper.

If the dog leaves the Helper before the judge's order for the Handler to approach the dog, protection is terminated.

If dogs are taken out of the trial because of lack of control, they receive no score entry [in the scorebook] and no TSB rating.

Dogs removed from the trial as a result of deficient drive, self-confidence and inability to handle threat receive the rating of "ng" (insufficient).

A Helper living in the same household as a Handler may be used in trials and competitions.

In club trials, SchH 3 can be worked with a single Helper. In competitions, elimination trials and championships, 2 Helpers are to be assigned.

The helper works on the judge's command.

Maximum Points - 100

Command: "Go On" (Voran) or "Search" (Revier) and "Here" (Hier) in conjunction with the call name of the dog are permitted.

At the judge's command, the Handler starts his dog on the search. The Handler must show 2 side searches with his dog -- one to the right and one to the left (or vice versa).

(Commands: none)

At another command from the judge, the dog is picked up by the Handler. The Handler puts the dog on lead and goes under cover. The Helper is now assigned to a new blind that is about 70 to 80 paces away from the Handler's starting point.

Commands: "Heel" (Fuß)

At the judge's command, the Handler steps out of the blind, takes the basic position and removes the lead. The lead is hung around the body or placed in a pocket. At another command from the judge, the Handler walks in the direction of the Helper blind with the dog heeling tightly off lead.

If the dog does not remain with the Handler, the Helper receives a command from the judge for a premature Surprise Attack. Five points will be deducted for not showing the off lead heeling.

A partial score results if the Handler with the dog off lead completes a minimum of half the distance to the location of the Surprise Attack. *

Commands: "out" (Aus)

At the judge's command, the Helper undertakes an attack on the Handler and dog without verbal threats. The dog must immediately, confidently and forcefully defend against the attack by biting hard and full. After the dog bites, the helper gives him two hits with a soft [padded] stick on the hindquarters, sides or withers. In the defense of the attack, encouragement by the Handler is allowed.

At the judge's command, the Helper discontinues the attack and stands still. The dog must let go on its own or on the single command "Out" (Aus) and guard the helper intently.

At the judge's instruction, the Handler approaches his dog and with the command, "Sit" (Sitz), puts it in the basic sit position. The Handler puts the dog on lead and is instructed by the judge to go to a designated blind.

Commands: "Go On" (Voran), "Out" (Aus), "Heel" (Fuß), "Down" (Platz), "Sit" (Sitz), "Heel" (Fuß).

The Handler is called from the blind by the judge and assumes the assigned position (center of the field) [with the dog on lead]. The Handler removes the lead and holds the dog by the collar. The handler may not stimulate the dog and the dog must sit quietly next to the Handler. The dog must hold this position until he is released with the command "Go On" (Voran) to defend against the attack.

Up to 3 points will be deducted for restless behavior.

The Helper leaves the blind assigned to him by the judge that is about 70 to 80 paces away from the Handler and crosses the field at a normal pace. The Handler orders the Helper to halt by calling "Stop, stand still!" The Helper ignores this command and attacks the Handler and dog head on. The judge immediately after the attack gives the Handler the command to defend against the attack.

At that time, the Handler immediately sends his dog with the command "Go On" (Voran), and remains where he is standing.

The dog must intensely, forcefully and with a hard, full, confident, calm bite defend against the attack. When the dog bites, the Helper drives the dog a short distance, without stick hits, and then stops resisting at the judge's command. After that, the dog must out on its own or on the single command "Out" (Aus) and guard the helper intently. *

At the judge's command, the Handler walks directly to the dog at a normal pace. With the "Sit" (Sitz) command, the Handler puts his dog in the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the behavior of the dog can be reinforced with the command "Sit" (Sitz). If the dog takes the down position after the "Out", the down can likewise be reinforced with the command, "Down" (Platz). The Handler has the Helper take 3 steps back, tells him to raise his arms and then downs the dog. The Handler disarms the Helper. After searching the Helper, the Handler returns to the dog, sits him and puts the lead on. Before beginning the side transport, the Handler halts beside the Helper with the dog in the basic sit position between them. The Handler reports to the judge.

The Helper leaves the field. The score is announced by the judge. Downing the dog during the critique is allowed.

The Handler reports to the judge with the dog on lead in the basic position. After reporting, the lead is removed and the dog heels off lead to the starting position; there, the Handler halts with the dog in the basic position.

Commands: "Go On"/"Search" (Voran/Review), "Here" (Hier), in conjunction with the dog's call name is allowed.

At the judge's command, the Handler starts his dog on the search. The Handler must show 6 side searches with his dog (alternating 3 to the left, 3 to the right or vice versa).

Commands: "Heel" (Fuß), "Down" (Platz)

At the judge's command, the Handler leaves the center of the field and approaches to within 3 to 4 paces from the dog. The judge determines the Handler's position for the call out. At another command from the judge, the dog is recalled with the command, "Heel" (Fuß). He must immediately come and sit quickly next to his Handler. The Handler calls the Helper out, downs his dog in place after ordering, "Hands Up". (The recall position can be the same as the down position for the Escape.) The location of the Helper and the Handler before the escape is determined by the judge. After completion of the search of the Helper and the blind, the exercise, Hold and Bark, is concluded.

If the dog does not come to the Handler after 3 commands, the dog is picked up o