What Does IGP Stand For In Dog Training?
Dog training is a vast field with many different methods, techniques, and philosophies. One term that has been gaining popularity in the dog training world is "IGP". But what exactly does IGP stand for in dog training? Let's dive in and explore this intriguing concept. Understanding IGP IGP is an acronym that stands for Internationale Gebrauchshund Prüfung. It is a German term that translates to "International Utility Dog Test". This is a dog sport that originated in Germany and has since spread to other parts of the world. It was formerly known as Schutzhund, which translates to "protection dog". The Three Phases of IGP IGP consists of three phases: tracking, obedience, and protection. Each phase tests different skills and abilities in a dog, and all three phases must be passed for a dog to earn an IGP title. 1. Tracking: In the tracking phase, the dog is required to follow a scent trail laid by a track layer. The dog must find articles that have been dropped along the track and indicate their location to the handler. This tests the dog's scenting ability, mental focus, and physical endurance. 2. Obedience: The obedience phase tests the dog's training and temperament. It includes a series of exercises such as heeling, sitting, staying, retrieving, and jumping over obstacles. The dog must perform these exercises both on and off leash, with distractions present. 3. Protection: The protection phase tests the dog's courage, physical strength, and protective instincts. The dog must search for a hidden "helper", hold the helper at bay, and prevent the helper from escaping or attacking the handler. The dog must also show control and stop biting on the handler's command. The Importance of IGP IGP is not just about training dogs for protection work. It is a comprehensive system that develops a dog's physical abilities, mental capabilities, and character. It tests a dog's tracking skills, obedience, and protective instincts, but it also tests the dog's temperament, resilience, and willingness to work with a handler.