IGP & OBEDIENCE
International Working Dog Test
Looking to strengthen your bond with your dog while exploring the thrilling world of obedience and IGP training? Join us for a fun, friendly, and interactive one-on-one experience with our fully-qualified specialist trainer, Connor. Whether you're new to training or already experienced, these personalized sessions are perfect for all levels and breeds, focusing on building confidence, mastering unique skills, and addressing any specific challenges your dog may have.
What is IGP training? Experience the irresistible allure of IGP—more than just a hobby, it’s a captivating lifestyle, a fervent passion, and an exhilarating journey of teamwork that will forge an unbreakable bond between you and your canine companion. IGP is like a dogsport triathlon, consisting of three phases: Tracking, Obedience, and Protection (Defence). Each phase tests the skills of the trainer and the heart and soul of the dog, pushing both to new levels of performance.
Prepare to be challenged! In IGP, every dog and handler team is tested in progressively harder stages until they ‘graduate’ to compete alongside their dogsport peers. At the competition level, each pairing is judged critically, requiring accuracy and precision in all three phases. Whether you're working on basic obedience or diving into advanced IGP training, including bite work, Connor will tailor each session to meet your dog’s specific needs.
Our one-on-one sessions with Connor provide the perfect environment for focused, hands-on training. You’ll have the opportunity to work closely with an expert in a secure, private setting, ensuring that your dog receives the dedicated attention they deserve. Get ready to watch your dog’s confidence grow, their skills sharpen, and your bond deepen through this exciting journey.
Phase A: Tracking
The tracking phase tests a dog's scentwork abilities, requiring them to follow a track laid by a person who deposits three small articles along the way. The handler directs the dog on a 10-meter leash, and the dog indicates the location of each article, usually by lying down with the item between its front paws. The judge evaluates the dog’s performance based on its accuracy, care, and intensity in following the track.
Phase B: Obedience
In the obedience phase, two dog-handler teams enter a large field. One dog is placed in a down position while the other performs various tasks, including heelwork with gunshot distractions, sit/down/stand commands, retrieving a dumbbell, jumping over obstacles, and executing a sendaway. The judge assesses the dog’s speed, accuracy, and enthusiasm, focusing on its teamwork with the handler.
Phase C: Protection
The protection phase tests the dog's courage and control. A Helper (or Decoy) hides in one of six blinds, and the dog must locate them by searching each blind. Once found, the dog must guard the Helper, prevent their escape, and defend against attacks while following the handler’s commands. The dog must show courage without hesitation and obey the handler at all times, with any sign of fear or aggression leading to disqualification.
