DOG SPORT TRAINING

CANINE BY DESIGN

Welcome to Canine by Design! Here, you’ll find information about our specialized dog sport training programs. Whether you’re interested in earning titles or simply want to strengthen your bond with your dog, our team of expert trainers is here to help!

Below you will find detailed descriptions of each discipline to help you decide which is the right fit for you and your dog. Explore our site to learn how our expert training can help your dog excel in these exciting and challenging sports.

AMERICAN SCHUTZHUND

American Schutzhund (AS) was designed as a breed suitability test for working dogs in America. AS tests test the ability of the dog to withstand stress and continue to function in difficult situations. This sport includes three disciplines: scent detection, obedience, and protection.

Scent detection involves the dog identifying specific scents in various environments, including fields, cinderblocks, suitcases, and vehicles. The complexity, time limit, and environments vary for each title.
Obedience includes skills such as a focused heel, long-down, dumbbell retrieval, hurdle, A-frame (wall climb), send away, recall, and positions in motion. The routine complexity varies for each title.
Protection involves a variety of scenarios to assess a dog’s temperament and drive. Additionally, every dog will be given a rating for courage, hardness, and fighting instinct. Dogs that show fear, lack of control, or inappropriate aggression are dismissed. The routine complexity varies for each title.

IGP (Formerly IPO)

IGP, also known as Schutzhund, originated in the early 1900s as a suitability test for German Shepherds. It has since evolved into a sport open to any breed. Similar to American Schutzhund, this sport includes three disciplines: tracking, obedience, and protection.

Tracking requires the dog to follow a footstep track while being followed by its handler on a 10 meter leash. The dog is scored on how intently and carefully it follows the track and indicates the articles. The length, complexity, number of articles, and age of the track vary for each title.
Obedience includes skills such as a focused heel, long-down, dumbbell retrieval, hurdle, A-frame (wall climb), send away, recall, and positions in motion.
Protection involves a variety of scenarios to assess a dog’s temperament and drive. Dogs that show fear, lack of control, or inappropriate aggression are dismissed. The routine complexity varies for each title.

UKC & AKC Nosework

UKC Nosework and AKC Scent Work are scent-based sports designed for all dog breeds and types, allowing them to use their natural olfactory abilities. Dogs work in partnership with their handlers to locate specific target odors, modeled after the work of detection dogs. This sport offers a safe and enriching environment and can be practiced in various locations. Some of the target scents for each level are as follows:

Novice: Birch Sweet Oil – Betula Lenta
Advanced: Aniseed Oil – Pimpinella Anisum
Superior: Clovebud Oil – Eugenia Caryophylatta
Masters: Myrrh Oil – Commiphora Myrrha
Elite: Vetiver Oil – Vetiveria Zizanoides

This program is perfect for those interested in exploring the world of scent detection with their dogs. Scent training is open to all with no obligation to compete.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I have to compete to do sport training?

We understand that many individuals may love sport and scent work but have no desire to compete, and that’s okay! We are still more than willing to help you develop a new skill and engage with your dog in a new way.

Does my dog need to be a certain breed?

No, we will train any dog regardless of breed. However, it is important to note that some dogs may not be a good fit for a certain sport based on their drives, temperament, or size. An evaluation will help us determine if your dog is a good fit.

Most sport organizations do not have breed restrictions, but may impose requirements for spay/neuter if the dog is a mixed breed.

Can you train my dog for AKC Obedience or Rally?

Yes! Contact our team to learn more about how we can help you prepare for an upcoming AKC Trial.

Do you offer GRC Training?

While many of our trainers have competed in GRC, we are not currently affiliated with any GRC clubs. You can find a local club in your area here.

What scents can my dog learn to detect?

The target scents UKC Nosework and AKC Scent work are:

Birch Sweet Oil – Betula Lenta
Aniseed Oil – Pimpinella Anisum
Clovebud Oil – Eugenia Caryophylatta or Syzgiium Aromaticum
Myrrh Oil – Commiphora Myrrha
Vetiver Oil – Vetiveria Zizanoides

We can also teach your dog to detect gluten or synthetic drugs. Want to teach your dog to identify a scent not listed here? Contact our office to see if it’s something we can do!

Do you offer training for PSA?

Our team is fully equipped to help you pass your PDC and ace your obedience. When it comes to protection, it should be noted that while our team has certified trial helpers for IGP and AS, we do not currently hold any certifications as trial decoys.

GETTING STARTED

Canine by Design’s top priority is the safety and well-being of your dog. An evaluation is required to ensure that your dog has the proper disposition, temperament, drives, and health to engage in a sport.

Fill out the form below to schedule your evaluation!