Character Assessment

PHASE C - PROTECTION WORK:

GENERAL JUDGING CRITERIA FOR THE PROTECTION WORK:

Rating protection work is of great significance for the breeding selection of working dogs. For this reason, the assessment of the protection work has the highest priority. It is essential to differentiate natural and useful performance aptitudes from learned behaviours. In a suitable location, six (6) blinds are to be set up in a staggered fashion, three on each side of the field. The necessary markings must be clearly visible for the handler, the judge and the helper. The location for each exercise in protection must be marked out on the trial field, such as the place each exercise begins and the direction of the exercise - this is also required in local trials.

HELPER GUIDELINES:

The helper in phase “C” is the judge's assistant on the day of the trial. Before the beginning of protection work, the helper will be instructed by the judge. The helper must perform according to the instructions of the judge. The helper must wear protective clothing, including appropriate footwear, pants, jacket and protection sleeve. At all Schutzhund Australia Inc.-sanctioned events, the leather-covered "soft" stick is the only type of stick allowed by the FCI / WUSV for protection work. The "stick hits" required by the trial rules are to be carried out in a manner that complies with local animal protection regulations. The sleeve must be equipped with a bite bar and the sleeve cover must be made from burlap (jute) in a natural colour. If it is necessary for the helper to keep an eye on the dog in the guarding phase (as in the dog circling the helper), the helper is not required to stand still, although he is not permitted to make any threatening or defensive movements. The helper must follow the handler’s instructions during the disarming in accordance with the trial rules. It is up to the handler in which way he/she chooses to take the soft stick from the helper. In club trials, it is permissible to work with one helper. If there are more than six (6) dogs entered at one examination level, it is mandatory to use two helpers. At trials at a regional or national level, such as championships or qualification trials, a minimum of two helpers must be used. In all these events, it is permitted to use a helper who lives in the same household as one of the handlers.

Dogs will be disqualified if they:

• are out of control;

• do not release after a defence exercise or release only after the handler takes physical measures;

• bite any other part of the helper's body than the protective sleeve.

No TSB rating will be given.

For dogs that fail during a defensive exercise or get chased away, phase "C" is to be terminated.

The dog does not receive a score in the protection phase. However, the dog must receive a TSB rating. The most important criteria for the assessment of protection work are:

• Well-balanced drives;

• Self-confidence;

• Ability to work under pressure; toughness; resilience;

• Steadfast, sound nerves;

• Willingness to take direction (commands) responsiveness to the handler.

THE PHASES OF PROTECTION WORK:

The protection work is divided into three phases, under which the most variable temperament and drive attributes will be discussed. The phases are divided as follows:

Note: the following are in their order of importance in evaluating the dog.

• Search and hold exercises (including guarding phases);

• Engagement with the helper;

• Controllability of the dog (obedience, optimal handler-dog relationship).

SEARCH EXERCISES:

In the searching exercises, self-confidence and nerve steadiness, direct ability and controllability are of great significance. Assessment criteria for the search:

• Intense

• Goal oriented, purposeful

• Goes directly to the blind indicated

• Dog is readily guided and directed

• Close, tight and attentive running around the blind

HOLD AND BARK:

The dog must, without handler help, hold the helper attentively and closely, with intensity and self-confidence, barking energetically and continuously until called out. There are no commands allowed in the hold and bark. Special merit is placed upon self-confident and intense behavior shown by the dog. Assessment criteria for the holding phases - Holding:

• Focused, attentive

• Close

• Intense

• Persistent right up to the call out

• Self-sure and confident

Assessment criteria for the holding phases – Barking:

• Continuous, sustained

• Energetic/enthusiastic

• Convincing

THE ENGAGEMENT SEQUENCES:

The engagement sequences consist of three phases. In these phases, the dog shows his determination, self-confidence and ability to withstand pressure (TSB). The phases of the fighting sequences are:

• Readiness to engage and take defensive action (defence drive);

• Periods of pressure/stress (ability to take pressure, including during the stationary phase before the "out");

• Guarding.

FIGHT AND DEFENCE READINESS:

(Defence Drive) - Escape, defence, re-attack (by the helper), counter-attack (by the dog).

Assessment criteria for defence drive:

• Determination

• Self-confidence

• Forceful, calm and full grip

PRESSURE PHASE:

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 him by pressure and stick hits.

Assessment criteria for the pressure phases:

• Energetic

• Self-confident

• Unfazed (includes maintaining the grip)

GUARDING PHASES:

The dog must guard (hold) the helper with intensity, self-confidence and attentiveness.

Assessment criteria for the guarding phase:

• Close

• Attentive

CONTROLLABILITY:

Controllability is the readiness of the dog to show obedience throughout the entire protection work. It is particularly evident in the exercise portions dealing with the blind search, the transports, heeling, the downs, the "outs" and in the guarding phases.

Assessment criteria for controllability:

• Controllability during the reporting in and during the blind search

• Outs correctly

• Heeling close in combination with attentive watching of the helper

• Fast response (coming to the handler) on the call out

THE GRIP:

The grip has fundamental meaning in the assessment of the work. Through evaluation of the grip, the trial judge has the opportunity to discern and emphasize the quality of the dog being judged.

In all phases, the grip must be fundamentally full, hard, forceful, calm and steady. The evaluation of the quality of the dog on the basis of his grip behaviour must take place throughout the entire protection routine. At the same time, the helper's behaviour, among other things, is to be taken into consideration. In judging the escape, attention is to be given not only to the fullness of the grip, but priority consideration must be given to the effective hindering of the escape.

THE OUTS:

After a fighting sequence stops, the dog must let go without assistance from the helper. The handler may give the first "out" command on his own (without direction from the judge) within a reasonable amount of time (4-5 seconds). If the dog does not "out” after the first command, the judge signals the handler to give possibly two further "out" commands.

When giving the command “aus" / "out," the handler must stand quietly, without exerting other influence on the dog. In the evaluation of the "out,” the following factors are to be considered:

• The helper must stand still on the judge's signal;

• The dog must immediately release when commanded;

• One "out" command is allowed without point loss; and

• The dog must guard the helper.

CRITERIA FOR SCORING THE “OUT” IN THE PROTECTION WORK:

The following scores apply only to the "out." Other incorrect behaviour by the dog will be judged according to the customary scoring system

Action Point Deduction

The dog outs immediately with or without a command. No deduction

The dog outs slowly to very slowly, re-bites or bumps several times (without ADDITIONAL command).

Up to 3 points

The dog outs immediately on the second "out" command. 3 points total

The dog outs slowly to very slowly after the second command, re-bites or bumps several times.

3.5 to 6 points

The dog outs immediately on the third "out" command. 6 points total

The dog outs slowly to very slowly on the third "out” command. 6.5 to 9 points total

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:

The handler has to give the first "out" command in a self-determined suitable period of time (approximately 4 or 5 seconds). The two additional commands, if needed, are given on the judge's signal. If a dog fails to "out' after the third command, the protection work will be terminated.

When giving the "out" command, the handler is to stand quietly; he may not go towards the dog.

Additional verbal/visible commands or other influences will lead to termination of the work. If the dog's name is used, this is scored as an additional command. An exercise will be rated "faulty" if the dog receives the helping command "platz" / "down" in order to make the dog release the grip. The judge will terminate the protection work if the dog will not release except through physical influence. Protection work will be terminated if the dog is given a “platz” / "down" command in order to make the dog stay by the helper.

ASSESSMENT OF THE NATURAL TENDENCIES SHOWN BY THE DOG: TSB ASSESSMENT:

Assessment criteria:

Drive During Conflict; Self-Sureness; Ability to Take Stress; "Controllability” is specially evaluated with an influence on the total rating, however, no written entry about that is made in the performance book.

Assessments for TSB:

Pronounced = “a”

Present = „vh“

Insufficient = „ng“

PRONOUNCED:

Requirements of pronounced TSB:

• Sense of physical strength

• Sense of psychological strength

• Inner confidence and fearlessness

• Urge to dominate

• Robustness

Self-confident, intense, goal-oriented and secure gripping and holding, without negative reactions to the stick hits, and close and attentive watching in the holding and guarding phases. Small deviations from the above statements will still allow an "a" rating under certain circumstances.

PRESENT:

Deficiencies in, for example, the self-confidence, in goal-oriented behaviour, in grip and stick behaviour, as well as in the guarding phases.

INSUFFICIENT:

Lacking self-sureness, strong deficiencies with respect to hardness, and disinterest in the helper.

If the dog leaves the helper by a distance of more than three metres before the judge signals the handler to approach, protection work will be terminated.

REPORTING IN:

In every case, at the beginning of protection, the handler must report to the judge unless the judge has instructed otherwise.

During the entire protection work, special value is placed on the dog's willingness to obey. If the handler cannot report with his dog properly (i.e. the dog breaks away and runs to the blind), the handler is allowed three commands to call his dog back. If the dog does not return after three commands, protection will be terminated because of disobedience.

COLLAR AND LEAD:

As covered in the General Rules and Regulations in the beginning of this rulebook, the handler must carry a lead throughout the entire course of the trial and the dog must wear a collar at all times.

The handler must carry the lead in all trial levels and in all phases including SchH / IPO 3. The lead must be carried out of sight in a pocket, or must be hung around the body in such a way that the catch is on the side opposite from the dog.

SchH 1 / IPO 1 / WD 1 PROTECTION - Maximum points: 100

SEARCH FOR THE HELPER (5 points ):

On the judge's signal, from the basic position between blinds four and five, the handler sends his dog to search while remaining in the centre of the field. The dog will be sent by means of verbal commands and/or visible signals. Only one command may be used in sending the dog, i.e. “revier,” “voran” or “search.” The handler must show two (2) blinds with his dog. The handler must remain on the centreline and may move down the field until the dog enters blind No. 6 or the judge signals the handler to stop. The dog must be in front of the handler at all times. At each blind when the search command is given, the dog must go directly and purposefully to the blind with intensity and single mindedness and must look into the blind or run around it closely. The dog must circle the blind within three (3) metres. Just looking in is permitted. Omitting the search and sending the dog directly to the helper is not allowed and may terminate protection work. If the dog does not find the helper in the blind, the handler may resend him. After being sent unsuccessfully three times to the helper, protection is terminated. TSB rating will be noted as a dash (-).

SCORING:

It is faulty (among other things):

• Not to assume the basic position before beginning the search;

• To use additional verbal or visual signals than those allowed;

• To not adhere to the imaginary centre line or to a normal pace;

• For the dog to perform widely sweeping (not purposeful) searches;

• For the dog not to search the blinds deeply enough.

HOLD AND BARK (5+5 points):

The dog must confront the helper actively and attentively and bark continuously. The dog is not permitted to jump on or grip the helper. After the dog has barked for approximately 20 seconds, the handler approaches the blind upon receiving a signal from the judge and stops about five (5)paces away from it, facing the helper. On the judge's signal, the handler calls his dog out of the blind into the basic position. As an alternative, the handler is permitted to pick up the free-heeling dog out of the blind. If the pick-up method is used, the handler may not touch the dog. The dog’s obedience to the commands will be judged. Both variations are rated the same. In either case, there must be sufficient room for the helper to leave the blind and set up for the escape. There are no commands allowed in the hold and bark. Special merit is placed upon self-confident and intense behaviour shown by the dog.

SCORING:

The exercises "HOLD" and "BARK" are to be scored in all trial levels as a whole. However, in order to be able to make a uniform score, five (5) points for the "HOLD" and five (5) points for the "BARK" are provided. Incorrect conduct for the "HOLD" includes, among other things:

• Inattentiveness;

• Temporarily leaving the helper;

• Disassociation and/or uncertainty at the helper;

• Dog allows himself to be distracted from the helper;

• Dog looks to or moves towards the handler;

• Bothering the helper by jumping on him, bumping, light touching;

• Lightly or strongly gripping, or gripping and holding tightly;

• Leaving the helper and going towards the handler as he/she approaches the blind (partial score);

• If the dog bites immediately and holds on, the whole exercise is rated "insufficient."

LEAVING THE HELPER:

If the dog leaves the helper after having found him, and before the handler leaves the midline, the handler may, on the judge's signal, send the dog in again. If the dog then stays close to the helper, the Hold exercise will be rated "insufficient." If the dog refuses or leaves the helper again, phase "C" is to be terminated and the fighting drive will be rated "insufficient." If the dog comes to the handler when he approaches the blind or the dog returns to the handler prior to receiving the verbal command, a partial score is given reflecting a rating of "insufficient" (0-6.5 points), but the protection work is allowed to continue. Incorrect conduct for the "BARK" includes, among other things:

• No bark;

• Beginning the barking late;

• Barking only briefly;

• Not barking continuously;

• Stops barking when the handler approaches.

PREVENTION OF AN ATTEMPTED ESCAPE OF THE HELPER (20 points):

Commands: “Fuss” / Heel ", "Platz” / “Down”, "Aus” / “Out"

Upon a signal from the judge, the handler orders the helper to step out of the blind. The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handler instruct him to do so. The helper moves at a normal pace to the designated location for the escape. On a signal from the judge, the handler moves with his free heeling dog to the designated spot for the down prior to the escape. The distance between the dog and the helper is five (5) paces. The handler leaves his guarding dog in the down position and moves directly into the blind, maintaining visual contact with the dog, the judge and the helper. On the judge's signal, the helper tries to escape. The dog must immediately and independently prevent the escape effectively and without hesitation by means of an energetic and strong grip. The dog may only bite the protective sleeve of the helper. On a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. When the helper comes to a standstill, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give the verbal command "aus" / "out” on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional "aus" / "out" commands, with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after having received three (3) commands (one permissible and two additional commands) the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand calmly without influencing the dog in any way, while giving the command. After the release, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Giving commands to assist the dog;

• The dog is inattentive;

• The grip is uncertain;

• The dog does not have a full, hard grip;

• The dog slips off the sleeve and re-grips;

• The dog does not make the grip after the helper has taken about 20 steps (protection terminated).

DEFENCE AGAINST AN ATTACK DURING THE GUARDING PHASE (35 points):

Commands: "Aus" / "Out" and "Fuss" / "Heel"

After a guarding phase of about five (5) seconds, and upon a signal from the judge, the helper performs an attack on the dog. Without any influence from the handler, the dog must defend itself through energetic and powerful gripping. The dog may only grip the protective sleeve of the helper. As soon as the dog has a grip on the sleeve, the helper applies two (2) stick hits. Hits may only be applied to the shoulders and the area of the withers. The attack on the dog must be in a direction away from the handler. Upon a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. After the helper has stopped the attack and is standing still, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give a verbal command “aus" / “out" on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first permissible command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional commands with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after three (3) commands (one permissible and two additional commands), the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand still without influencing the dog in any form while giving the verbal command "aus" / “out." After the dog releases, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. Upon a signal from the judge, the handler walks directly to his dog at a normal pace and with the verbal command “sitz" / “sit” brings the dogs to the basic position. The handler may also reinforce with the “sit” command the dog that is already sitting. The soft stick is not taken from the helper. It is incorrect, among other things:

• To give commands to assist the dog;

• If the dog shows a lack of confidence;

• If the dog does not grip the sleeve full, hard and forcefully;

• If the dog has an agitated, nervous or hectic grip;

• For the dog to exhibit a negative reaction to the stick hits;

• If the dog comes off the sleeve on the stick hits (protection will be terminated);

• If the dog can be driven away (protection will be terminated).

ATTACK ON THE DOG OUT OF MOTION (30 points):

Commands: "Voran" / "Go on", "Aus" / "Out", "Fuss” / "Heel", "Platz" / "Down", "Sitz" / "Sit", "Fuss" / "Heel" .

The handler and the free-heeling dog are sent to a marked position on the centreline of the field, even with the first blind. The dog must sit calmly in the basic position before the exercise starts; the handler may take the dog by the collar. The dog may not be stimulated (worked up) by the handler and must sit calmly next to the handler until he is released at the judge's signal with the command “voran" / "go on" to defend against the attack. The helper leaves the blind into which the judge sent him and walks to the centreline at a normal pace. The handler can be silent or order the helper to stop by calling out "Stop, stand still." The helper ignores the instruction and starts frontal attack upon the handler and dog. With the judge's instruction, the helper yells and makes strong threatening motions. Upon the judge's signal, the handler immediately sends his dog with the command "voran" l "go on." No other attack commands may be given. The handler is not permitted to leave his position. The dog must counter the attack with intensity and must grip energetically with a firm, full, secure and calm grip. Once the dog grips, the helper pressures the dog briefly (without any stick hits) and on the judge's signal, stops resisting. The dog must release by himself or upon a single command "aus" / "out' and must guard the helper intently. It is incorrect, among other things, if the dog:

• appears intimidated;

• is hesitant through the attack;

• does not go directly for the attack;

• bites timidly;

• does not have a full, hard or calm grip;

• comes off after gripping, though grips again (In this case, it is to be determined if the reasonis a helper mistake or a weakness of the dog);

• can be driven off (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler makes a direct approach to the dog at a normal pace. With the command "sitz" l "sit,” the handler brings the dog into the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the position of the dog may be reinforced with the command "sitz" l "sit.” If the dog takes the down position after outing, the down may likewise be reinforced with the command “platz” /"down." The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handler instruct him to do so.

The soft stick is then taken from the helper. The method of disarming the helper is left to the discretion of the handler. For example, the handler tells the helper to step back slowly four to five paces; if the dog is sitting, the handler commands the dog to "down" and disarms the helper; if the dog is already down, the handler may also reinforce this position if he/she wishes. Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• The handler does not walk directly to his dog;

• The dog appears oriented to the handler and/or is inattentive;

• The dog is not obedient at the handler's approach;

• The dog is not obedient on the pickup;

• The dog receives several “down” commands;

• The dog does not down.

SIDE TRANSPORT:

A side transport of the helper to the judge, over a distance of approximately 20 paces, follows. A verbal command “fuss" l "heel" is permitted. The dog must walk on the helper's right side, so that the dog is positioned between the handler and the helper. The dog must watch the helper attentively during the side transport. However, the dog may not bother, jump on or grip the helper. The group stops in front of the judge. The handler presents the soft stick to the judge and reports out. Prior to the critique, and on the judge's request, the dog is put on leash. The dog is allowed to lay down during the critique.

SchH 2 / IPO 2 / WD 2 PROTECTION - Maximum points: 100

REPORTING IN:

With the dog off lead, the handler reports to the judge in the basic position, unless the judge instructs otherwise. Then, from the basic position between blinds two (2) and three (3), the dog will begin the search.

SEARCH FOR THE HELPER (5 points):

Commands: "Voran" / "Go On" or "Revier" / "Search", "Hier" / "Come"

The command "Hier" / "Come" may be given in combination with the dog's name.

On the judge's signal, from the basic position between blinds two (2) and three (3), the handler sends his dog to search. In SchH 1,2 and 3, only one command may be used in sending the dog in the blind search. For example, if “revier” is used at the first blind, it must be used throughout all blind searches. This also applies to the “voran” and “search” commands. The dog must show four (4) blinds searched, alternating two (2) to the left and two (2) to the right (or vice versa). The handler must proceed at a normal pace down the imaginary centreline and continue moving forward on the centreline until the dog enters the sixth blind or the judge signals him to stop.

The dog should cross in front of the handler as it criss-crosses the field, and it is faulty for the dog to go back and search a blind that was already missed or already searched. The blind is considered missed when the dog refuses to go to the blind after two (2) extra commands, or when the dog starts toward the next blind in the progression without searching the one to which it was directed. At each blind when the “search” command is given, the dog must go directly and purposefully to the blind with intensity and single-mindedness, and must look into the blind or run around it closely. The dog must not circle the blind wider than 3 metres. Just looking in is permitted. Omitting the search and sending the dog directly to the helper is not allowed and may terminate protection work. If the dog does not find the helper in the blind, the handler may resend him. After being sent unsuccessfully three (3) times to the helper, protection will be terminated.

Fighting drive rating will be noted as a dash (-).

SCORING:

Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Not assuming the basic position before beginning the search;

• Using additional verbal or visual signals;

• Not adhering to the imaginary centreline or to a normal pace;

• For the dog to perform widely sweeping (not purposeful) searches;

• For the dog to not search the blinds deeply enough.

HOLD (5 points) AND BARK (5 points):

Commands: "Hier Fuss" / "Come Heel", "Platz" / "Down"

The dog must confront the helper actively and attentively and bark continuously. The dog is not permitted to jump on or grip the helper. After the dog has barked for approximately 20 seconds, the handler approaches the blind upon receiving a signal from the judge and stops about five (5)paces away from it, facing the helper. On the judge's signal, the handler calls his dog out of the blind into the basic position with the “hier, fuss” command. There are no commands allowed during the hold and bark. Special merit is placed upon self-confident and intense behavior shown by the dog. Intense, close circling of the blind is permitted on a limited basis.

SCORING:

The hold and bark exercise is to be scored in all trial levels as a whole. In order to be able to make a uniform score, five (5) points for the "hold" and five (5) points for the "bark" are provided. Incorrect conduct for the "hold" includes, among other things:

• Inattentiveness;

• Temporarily leaving the helper;

• Disassociation and/or uncertainty at the helper;

• Dog allows himself to be distracted from the helper;

• The dog looks to, or moves toward, the handler;

• Bothering the helper by jumping on him, bumping, light touching;

• Lightly or strongly gripping, or gripping and holding tightly;

• Leaving the helper and going towards the handler as they approach the blind (partial score);

• If the dog bites immediately and holds on, the whole exercise is rated "insufficient."

LEAVING THE HELPER:

If the dog leaves the helper after having found him, and before the handler leaves the midline on the judge's signal, the handler may, on the judge's signal, send the dog in again. If the dog then stays close to the helper, the “hold” exercise will be rated "insufficient." If the dog refuses or leaves the helper again, phase "C" is to be terminated and the fighting drive will be rated “insufficient." If the dog comes to the handler when he approaches the blind or the dog returns to the handler prior to receiving the verbal command, a partial score is given reflecting a rating of “insufficient" (0-6.5 points), but the protection work is allowed to continue. Incorrect for the “bark" (among other things) are:

• No bark;

• Beginning the barking late;

• Barking only briefly;

• Does not bark continuously;

• Stops barking when the handler approaches.

CALL OUT OF THE BLIND:

On another signal from the judge, the handler calls his dog out with the commands “hier, fuss" /"come, heel." The dog must come immediately to the handler and sit quickly next to the handler in the basic position.

SCORING:

The call out of the blind is incorrect if (among other things), the dog:

• comes hesitantly to the handler on the command;

• does not come on a single command;

• does not come to the handler after the third command. In this case, the dog will be picked up by free-heeling and the exercise is rated as "insufficient;"

• does not come to the basic position on the call out;

• shows himself to be, on the whole, disobedient;

• will not stay in the basic position when the helper steps out of the blind;

• does not show the basic position before the down for the escape;

• anticipates the down on his own before the escape;

• receives physical help to down or additional commands;

• behaves restlessly in the down (including barking continuously) and/or will not stay down.

PREVENTION OF AN ATTEMPTED ESCAPE OF THE HELPER (10 points):

Commands: “Fuss" / "Hier", “Platz" / "Down”, "Aus” / “Out"

Upon a signal from the judge, the handler orders the helper to step out of the blind. The helper moves at a normal pace to the designated location for the escape. The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handler instruct him to do so. On a signal from the judge, the handler moves with his free-heeling dog to the designated spot for the down prior to the escape. The distance between the dog and the helper is five (5) paces. The handler leaves his guarding dog in the down position and moves directly into the blind, maintaining visual contact with the dog, the judge and the helper. On the judge's signal, the helper tries to escape. The dog must immediately and independently prevent the escape effectively and without hesitation by means of an energetic and strong grip. The dog may only bite the protective sleeve of the helper. On a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. When the helper comes to a standstill, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give the verbal command “aus" / "out" on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional "aus" / "out" commands, with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after having received three commands (one permissible and two additional commands), the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand calmly without influencing the dog in any way, while giving the command. After the release, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively.

Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Giving commands to assist the dog;

• The dog is inattentive;

• The grip is uncertain;

• The dog does not have a full, hard grip;

• The dog slips off the sleeve and re-grips;

• The dog does not make the grip after the helper has taken about 20 steps (protection will be terminated).

DEFENCE AGAINST AN ATTACK DURING THE GUARDING PHASE (20 points):

Command: "Aus" / "Out"

After a guarding phase of about five (5) seconds, the judge will signal the helper to attack the dog. With no influence from the handler, the dog must immediately counter the attack securely and energetically through firm and full gripping. Once the dog has gripped the arm, the helper gives him two (2) stick hits on the thighs, side portions, or in the area of the withers. Theattack on the dog must be in a direction away from the handler. Upon a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. After the helper has stopped the attack and is standing still, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give a verbal command "aus" / "out" on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first permissible command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional commands with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after three (3) commands (one permissible and two additional commands), the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand still without influencing the dog in any form, while giving the verbal command “aus" / "out." After the dog releases, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. It is incorrect, among other things:

• To give commands to assist the dog;

• For the dog to show a lack of confidence;

• If the dog does not grip the sleeve fully, forcefully and hard;

• If the dog has an agitated, nervous or hectic grip;

• If the dog exhibits a negative reaction to the stick hits;

• If the dog comes off the sleeve on the stick hits (protection will be terminated);

• If the dog can be driven away (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler walks directly to his dog at a normal pace and with the verbal command "sitz” / "sit," puts the dog in the basic position, or reconfirms an already-sitting position. The soft stick is not taken from the helper.

BACK TRANSPORT (5 points):

Command: "Fuss" / "Heel"

The handler commands the helper to walk ahead and follows the helper with his free-heeling dog at a distance of five (5) paces. The dog is to watch the helper attentively. The judge will determine the course of the back transport, which will be a distance of approximately 30 paces.

If the free heeling cannot be demonstrated, the protection work will be terminated. Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Forging;

• Dog is inattentive;

• Dog strays sideways;

• Handler help - i.e. additional commands or visual aid, handler alters the pace to keep upwith the dog, handler grabs the dog, etc.

ATTACK ON THE DOG OUT OF BACK TRANSPORT (30 points):

Command: “Aus" / "Out"

On a signal from the judge, an attack is performed on the dog out of the back transport. The attack is performed out of motion. The dog must counter the attack by means of an energetic and powerful grip. The dog may only bite the protective sleeve of the helper. As soon as the dog has a grip on the sleeve, the handler is to stand still. On the judge's command, the helper stops and stands still. The dog must immediately release on its own or on a single “aus" / "out" command and must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. It is incorrect, among other things, if the dog:

• needs commands to initiate the counter attack;

• is not self-confident;

• does not grip fully and strongly and/or forcefully;

• has a chewy, nervous or hectic grip;

• can be driven away (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler makes a direct approach to his dog at a normal pace. With the command "sitz" l "sit," the dog is brought into the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the position of the dog may be reconfirmed with the "sitz"/ "sit” command. For dogs in the "down “position after the "out” command, the "down" position may likewise be reconfirmed with the command “platz”/ "down." The soft stick is taken from the helper. The method of disarming the helper is left to the discretion of the handler. For example, the handler can tell the helper to step back slowly four or five paces; if the dog is sitting, the handler can command the dog to "down” and disarm the helper. A side transport of the helper to the judge, over a distance of approximately 20 paces, follows. A verbal command of "fuss" / "heel," "forward" or "transport” is permitted. The dog must walk on the helper's right side so that the dog is positioned between the handler and the helper. The dog must watch the helper attentively during the side transport.

However, the dog may not bother, jump on or grip the helper. The group stops in front of the judge. The handler presents the soft stick to the judge and declares "first part of phase ‘C’ completed." On the judge's command, the handler and dog are sent to a position on the centerline of the field, which is even with the first blind, and assume the basic position in preparation for the attack out of motion. It is incorrect, among other things, if the dog:

• is not obedient at the approach of the handler;

• will not sit or similar behaviour;

• will not stay at heel off lead to the blind.

When heeling off lead in the back transport, if the dog becomes uncontrollable, the handler is allowed three commands to call the dog back or regain control. If the dog doesn't come back or come under the handler's control after three commands, protection will be terminated.

ATTACK ON THE DOG OUT OF MOTION (20 points):

Commands: "Voran" / "Go on", "Aus" / "Out", "Fuss" I "Heel", "Platz" / "Down", "Sitz" / "Sit", "Fuss"/ "Heel"

The handler and the free-heeling dog are sent to a marked position on the centreline of the field, even with the first blind (blind one). The dog must sit calmly in the basic position before the exercise begins; the handler may take the dog by the collar. The dog may not be stimulated (worked up) by the handler and must sit calmly next to the handler until he is released at the judge’s signal with the command “voran" / "go on" to defend against the attack. At the judge’s command, the helper comes out of the blind and runs across the field to the imaginary centreline.

The handler can be silent or order the helper to stop by calling out “Stop. Stand still." The helper ignores this command and starts a frontal attack upon handler and dog by running down the field at them. Under the judge's direction, the helper yells and makes strong threatening motions. Upon the judge's signal, the handler immediately sends his dog with the command “voran" / "go on” and remains where he is standing. No other attack commands may be given. The handler is not permitted to leave his position. The dog must counter the attack with intensity and must grip energetically with a firm, full, secure and calm grip. After the dog grips, the helper drives the dog a short distance without any stick hits and, on the judge's signal, stops resisting. After the helper stops, the dog must release by himself or upon a single command “aus" / "out' and must guard the helper intently. If the dog becomes uncontrollable while heeling to the centre of the field, the handler is allowed three commands to call the dog back or regain control. If the dog does not come back or come under the control of the handler after three commands, protection will be terminated. It is incorrect, among other things, if the dog:

• appears intimidated;

• is hesitant through the attack;

• does not go directly for the attack;

• grips timidly;

• does not have a full, hard or calm grip;

• comes off after gripping, though grips again (In this case, it is to be determined if the reason is a helper mistake or a weakness of the dog);

• can be driven off (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler makes a direct approach to his dog at a normal pace. With the command "sitz" / "sit," the dog is brought into the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the position of the dog may be reconfirmed with the “sit” command. If the dog takes the down position after outing, the down may likewise be reinforced with the command “platz" / "down."

The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handler instruct him to do so. The soft stick is taken from the helper. The method of disarming the helper is left to the discretion of the handler. Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• The handler does not walk directly to his dog;

• The dog appears oriented to the handler and/or is inattentive;

• The dog is not obedient at the handler's approach.

SIDE TRANSPORT:

A side transport of the helper to the judge, over a distance of approximately 20 paces, follows. A verbal command “fuss" / "heel" is permitted. The dog must walk on the helper's right side, so that the dog is positioned between the handler and the helper. The dog must watch the helper attentively during the side transport. However, the dog may not bother, jump on or grip the helper. The group stops in front of the judge. The handler presents the soft stick to the judge and reports out. Prior to the critique and on the judge's request, the dog is put on leash. The dog is allowed to lay down during the critique.

SchH 3 / IPO 3 / WD 3 PROTECTION - Maximum points: 100

REPORTING IN:

The handler reports off lead to the judge or to the designated spot at the judge's discretion. After reporting in, the handler proceeds to the start position and again assumes the basic position before beginning the search.

SEARCH FOR THE HELPER (10 points):

Commands: "Voran" / "Go-On" or "Revier" / "Search", "Hier" / "Come"

The command "Hier" / "Come" may be given in combination with the dog's name.

From the basic position and on the judge's signal, the dog will be sent by means of verbal commands and/or visible signals. Only one command may be used in sending the dog in the blind search. For example, if “revier” is used at the first blind, it must be used throughout all blind searches in SchH 1, 2 and 3. This also applies to the “voran” or “search” commands. The search is to be shown in a forward direction. The dog should cross in front of the handler as it goes from one blind to the next. It is faulty for the dog to go back and search a blind that it missed or one that has already been searched. The blind is considered missed when the dog refuses to go to the blind after two extra commands, or when the dog starts toward the next blind in the progression without searching the one to which it was directed. At each blind when the search command is given, the dog must go directly and purposefully to the blind with intensity and single mindedness, and must look into the blind or run around it closely. The dog must not circle the blind by more than 3metres. Just looking in is permitted. Omitting the search and sending the dog directly to the helper is not allowed and may terminate protection work. If the dog does not find the helper in the blind, the handler may resend it. After being sent unsuccessfully three times to the helper, protection will be terminated. Fighting drive rating will be noted as a dash (-). The dog must search all six blinds, alternating three to the left and three to the right (or vice versa). The handler should proceed at a normal pace down the imaginary centreline and continue moving forward on the centreline until the dog enters blind six or the judge signals him/her to stop.

SCORING:

Incorrect conduct includes, (among other things):

• Not assuming the basic position before beginning the search;

• Using additional verbal or visual signals;

• Not adhering to the imaginary centreline or to a normal pace;

• For the dog to perform widely sweeping (not purposeful) searches;

• For the dog to not search the blinds deeply enough.

HOLD (5 points) AND BARK (5 points):

Commands: (completion) "Hier Fuss" / "Come Heel", "Platz" / "Down"

The dog must confront the helper actively and attentively and bark continuously. The dog is not permitted to jump on or grip the helper. After the dog has barked for approximately 20 seconds, the handler approaches the blind upon receiving a signal from the judge and stops about five (5)paces away from it, facing the helper. On the judge's signal, the handler calls his dog out of the blind into the basic position with the “hier, fuss” command. There are no commands allowed in the hold and bark. Special merit is placed upon self-confident and intense behaviour shown by the dog. Intense, close circling of the blind is permitted on a limited basis.

SCORING:

The "hold and bark" exercise is to be scored in all trial levels as a whole. In order to be able to make a uniform score, five (5) points for the "hold" and five (5) points for the "bark" are provided. The following, among other things, are incorrect for the "hold:"

• Inattentiveness;

• Temporarily leaving the helper;

• Disassociation and/or uncertainty at the helper;

• Being distracted from the helper;

• Looking or moving towards the handler;

• Bothering the helper by jumping on him, bumping or light touching;

• Lightly or strongly gripping, or gripping and holding tightly;

• Leaving the helper and going toward the handler as he/she approaches the blind (partial score).

If the dog bites immediately and holds on, the whole exercise is rated "insufficient."

LEAVING THE HELPER:

If the dog leaves the helper after having found him, and before the handler leaves the midline on the judge's signal, the handler may, on the judge's signal, send the dog in again. If the dog then stays close to the helper, the “hold” exercise will be rated "insufficient." If the dog refuses or leaves the helper again, phase "C" is to be terminated and the fighting drive will be rated “insufficient." If the dog comes to the handler when he approaches the blind or the dog returns to the handler prior to receiving the verbal command, a partial score is given reflecting a rating of "insufficient” (0-6.5 points), but the protection work is allowed to continue. Incorrect conduct for the "bark" includes, among other things:

• No bark;

• Beginning the barking late;

• Barking only briefly;

• Not barking continuously;

• Stops barking when the handler approaches.

CALL OUT OF THE BLIND:

SCORING:

The call out of the blind is incorrect if (among other things), the dog:

• comes hesitantly to the handler on the command;

• does not come on a single command;

• does not come to the handler after the third command. In this case, the dog will be picked up by free heeling and the exercise is rated as faulty;

• does not come to the basic position on the call out;

• shows himself to be, on the whole, disobedient;

• will not stay in the basic position when the helper steps out of the blind;

• does not show the basic position before the down for the escape;

• anticipates the down on his own before the escape;

• receives physical help to down or additional commands;

• behaves restlessly in the down (including barking continuously) and/or will not stay down.

PREVENTION OF AN ATTEMPTED ESCAPE (10 points):

Commands: “Fuss" / "Heel", "Platz" / "Down”, "Aus" / "Out"

Upon a signal from the judge, the handler orders the helper to step out of the blind. The helper moves at a normal pace to the designated location for the escape. The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handier instruct him to do so. On a signal from the judge, the handler moves with his free-heeling dog to the designated spot for the down prior to the escape. The distance between the dog and the helper is five (5) paces. The handler leaves his guarding dog in the down position and moves directly into the blind, maintaining visual contact with the dog, the judge and the helper. On the judge's signal, the helper tries to escape. The dog must immediately and independently prevent the escape effectively and without hesitation by means of an energetic and strong grip. The dog may only bite the protective sleeve of the helper. On a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. When the helper comes to a standstill, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give the verbal command “aus" / "out" on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional "aus" / "out" commands, with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after having received three commands (one permissible and two additional commands), the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand calmly without influencing the dog in any way, while giving the command. After the release, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Giving commands to assist the dog;

• The dog is inattentive;

• The grip is uncertain;

• The dog does not have a full, hard grip;

• The dog slips off the sleeve and re-grips;

• The dog does not make the grip after the helper has taken about 20 steps (protection will be terminated).

DEFENCE AGAINST AN ATTACK DURING THE GUARDING PHASE (20 points):

Command: "Aus" / "Out"

After a guarding phase of about five (5) seconds, the judge will signal the helper to attack the dog. With no influence from the handler, the dog must immediately counter the attack securely and energetically through firm and full gripping. Once the dog has gripped the arm, the helper gives him two stick hits on the thighs, side-portions, or in the area of the withers. The attack on the dog must be in a direction away from the handler. Upon a signal from the judge, the helper stands still. After the helper has stopped the attack and is standing still, the dog must release immediately. The handler may give a verbal command "aus" / "out" on his own at the appropriate time. If the dog does not release after the first permissible command, the handler may give up to two (2) additional commands with point deduction, upon receiving a signal from the judge. If the dog does not release after three commands (one permissible and two additional commands), the team is to be disqualified. The handler must stand still without influencing the dog in any form, while giving the verbal command “aus" / "out." After the dog releases, the dog must stay close to the helper and guard him attentively. It is incorrect, among other things:

• To give commands to assist the dog;

• For the dog to show a lack of confidence;

• If the dog does not grip the sleeve fully, forcefully and hard;

• If the dog has an agitated, nervous or hectic grip;

• If the dog exhibits a negative reaction to the stick hits;

• If the dog comes off the sleeve on the stick hits (protection will be terminated);

• If the dog can be driven away (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

Upon a signal from the judge, the handler walks directly to his dog at a normal pace, and with the verbal command "sitz" / "sit," brings the dog into the basic position, or reconfirms an already sitting position. The soft stick is not taken from the helper.

BACK TRANSPORT (5 points) Command: "Fuss" / "Heel":

If the free heeling cannot be demonstrated, the protection work will be terminated.

Incorrect conduct includes, among other things:

• Forging;

• Dog is inattentive;

• Dog strays sideways;

• Handler help - i.e. additional commands or visual aid, handler alters the pace to keep up with the dog, handler grabs the dog, etc.

ATTACK ON THE DOG OUT OF THE BACK TRANSPORT (15 points):

Command: “Aus" / "Out"

• needs commands to initiate the counter attack;

• is not self-confident;

• does not grip fully and strongly and/or forcefully;

• has a chewy, nervous or hectic grip;

• can be driven away (protection will be terminated).

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler makes a direct approach to his dog at a normal pace. With the command "sitz" / "sit," the dog is brought into the basic position. If the dog is already sitting, the position of the dog may be reconfirmed with the "sitz"/ "sit” command. For dogs in the "down” position after the "out” command, the "down" position may likewise be reconfirmed with the command “platz”/ "down." The soft stick is taken from the helper.

The method of disarming the helper is left to the discretion of the handler. For example, the handler can tell the helper to step back slowly four or five paces; if the dog is sitting, the handler can command the dog to "down" and disarm the helper.

A side transport of the helper to the judge, over a distance of approximately 20 paces, follows. A verbal command of "fuss" / "heel," "forward" or "transport" is permitted. The dog must walk on the helper's right side so that the dog is positioned between the handler and the helper. The dog must watch the helper attentively during the side transport. However, the dog may not bother, jump on or grip the helper. The group stops in front of the judge. The handler presents the softstick to the judge and declares "first part of phase ‘C’ completed."

On the judge's command, the handler and dog are sent to a position on the centreline of the field, which is even with the first blind, and assume the basic position in preparation for the attack out of motion. It is incorrect, among other things, if the dog:

• is not obedient at the approach of the handler;

• will not sit or similar behaviour;

• will not stay at heel off lead to the blind.

ATTACK ON THE DOG OUT OF MOTION (10 points):

Commands: "Voran" / "Go on", "Aus" / "Out", "Fuss" / "Heel", "Platz" / "Down", "Sitz" / "Sit", "Fuss" / "Heel"

The handler and the free-heeling dog are sent to a marked position on the centreline of the field, even with the first blind (blind one). The dog must sit calmly in the basic position before the exercise begins; the handler may take the dog by the collar. The dog may not be stimulated (worked up) by the handler and must sit calmly next to the handler until he is released at thejudge's signal with the command “voran" / "go on" to defend against the attack. At the judge’s command, the helper comes out of the blind and runs across the field to the imaginary centreline.

• appears intimidated;

• is hesitant through the attack;

• does not go directly for the attack;

• grips timidly;

• does not have a full, hard or calm grip;

• comes off after gripping, though grips again (In this case, it is to be determined if the reason is a helper mistake or a weakness of the dog);

• can be driven off (protection will be terminated).

DEFENSE AGAINST AN ATTACK AFTER THE GUARDING PHASE (20 points):

Commands: “Aus” / “Out”, "Sitz” / “Sit", "Platz” / “Down", "Fuss” / “Heel"

After a definite pause, the judge signals the helper to attack the dog. With no influence from the handler, the dog must immediately counter the attack forcefully and energetically through firm and full gripping. Once the dog has gripped the sleeve, the helper gives him two stick hits with the padded stick on the hindquarters, sides, or in the area of the withers. The dog must grip confidently, exhibiting a full, hard and calm grip. The dog cannot show a negative reaction to the stick hits. On a signal from the judge, the helper stops his resistance and stands still. The dog must release on its own or on a single command "aus" / "out" and must guard the helper intently.

COMPLETION:

On the judge's signal, the handler goes directly to the dog at a normal pace and brings him into the basic position with the "sitz" / "sit” command. If the dog is already sitting, the position of the dog may be reinforced with the command “sitz"/ "sit." For dogs in the "down" position after the "out," the position may likewise be reconfirmed with the command "platz" / "down."

The helper is not permitted to raise his arms, nor will the handler instruct him to do so. The softstick is taken from the helper. The method of disarming the helper is left to the discretion of the handler. It is incorrect, among other things, if:

• The handler does not walk directly to his dog;

• The dog appears oriented to the handler and/or is inattentive;

• The dog is not obedient at the handler's approach;

• The dog is not obedient on the pickup;

• The dog receives several commands to "down;"

• The dog does not down.

SIDE TRANSPORT:

A side transport of the helper to the judge, over a distance of approximately 20 paces, follows. A verbal command “fuss" l "heel" is permitted. The dog must walk on the helper's right side, so that the dog is positioned between the handler and the helper. The dog must watch the helper attentively during the side transport. However, the dog may not bother, jump on or grip the helper. The group stops in front of the judge. The handler presents the soft stick to the judge and reports out. Prior to the critique and on the judge's request, the dog is put on leash. The dog is allowed to lay down during the critique.

*Document taken from the Schutzhund Australia website.

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