WESTERN REGION SCHUTZHUND VERBAND, DVG, INC .

Member LV/DVG America - DVG - DHV - VDH - FCI

Vielseitigkeitsprüfung für Gebrauchshunde (VPG 2)

is divided into:                Phase A                                   100 points

                                    Phase B                                   100 points

                                    Phase C                                   100 points

                                    Total:                                       300 points

VPG 2, Part A

 The track is laid by a stranger, minimum of 400 paces, 3 legs, 2 corners (approximately 90 degrees), 2 articles, at least 30 minutes old, time to work out the track 15 minutes

 Tracking Performance                                     80 points

Articles (10 + 10)                                              20 points

Total:                                                             100 points

 General Regulations:

The judge or the person in charge of tracking determines the course of the track based upon the tracking field terrain.  Varying patterns must be used for the tracks.  The article placement and distance to each corner should not be identical on every track.  The start must be clearly marked with a sign, placed in the ground directly to the left of the scent pad. 

 After the tracks are laid, with the judge present, the start positions are determined by a draw.

 Prior to laying the track, the tracklayer must show the tracking articles to the judge or the person in charge of the tracking.  Only well scented articles (scented for a minimum of 30 minutes) may be used.  The tracklayer pauses briefly on the scent pad and then proceeds at a normal pace in the direction prescribed by the judge.  The corners are likewise to be laid at a normal pace.  The first article is placed on the track after a minimum of 100 paces on the first or second leg.  The second article is to be placed at the end of the track.  The articles are to be laid on the track while the tracklayer is moving.  After placing the last article at the end of the track, the tracklayer must walk straight ahead for a few more paces.  Different types of articles are to be used on the track (materials: leather, fabric, wood).  The size of the articles should be about 10 cm (4 inches) long by 2-3 cm (3/4 inch to 1 1/4") wide by 0.5-1 cm (3/8 inch to 5/8 inch) thick. They may not differ substantially in color from the terrain.  All articles are to be marked with numbers, which must coincide with the numbers on the start stake.   The handler and dog must remain out of sight while the track is laid.

 While the dog is working the track, the judge, tracklayer and anyone accompanying the judge are not permitted in the area of the track where the dog/handler team has the right to track. 

 a) Commands

A command to track = Such/Track or Find

The tracking command is permitted at the start of the track and after the first article. 

 b) Tracking Performance

The handler prepares the dog to track.  The dog may track off lead or on a 10 m [33 foot] tracking line.  While tracking, the 10m tracking line may be placed over the back, on the side or between the front and/or hindquarters of the dog.  The line may be attached directly to the collar on the dead ring or to the ring on the tracking harness.  (The following types of tracking harnesses are permitted: chest harness or Böttger harness without any additional straps.)  When summoned, the handler will report to the judge with the dog in a basic position.  The handler will inform the judge whether the dog picks up or indicates the articles.  Any compulsion is to be avoided prior to tracking, at the start and during the entire track.  At the judge's command, the dog is taken slowly and calmly to the starting point and is set onto the track.  The dog should take the scent at the start calmly and intensely with a deep nose.  The dog must then proceed to track with a deep nose, maintaining a consistent pace.  The handler follows the dog at a distance of 10m at the end of the tracking line.  When tracking off lead, a distance of 10m must be maintained as well.  A certain amount of slack in the line is permissible, as long as the handler keeps the tracking line in his/her hand.  The dog must confidently work out corners.  After working out a corner the dog must continue to track at the regular pace.  As soon as the dog reaches an article, it must immediately pick up or indicate the article, without help from the handler. 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. The dog may indicate the articles by standing, sitting or lying down or any of these positions interchangeably. As soon as the dog has indicated or picked up an article, the handler should drop the line and immediately go to the dog.  The handler signals the judge that the article has been found by raising it in the air.  The handler picks up the tracking line and continues tracking with the dog.  Upon completing the track, the handler must show the judge the articles that were found. 

 c.) Evaluation

The speed of the tracking performance is not a criterion [standard] in the judging, if the track is worked intensely, uniformly and convincingly and the dog shows a positive tracking attitude.  If a dog checks to convince itself of the layout of the track, this is not incorrect as long as the dog does not leave the track.  Deductions will be made for aimless wandering, a high nose, urination/defecation, circling at the corners, continuous encouragement, guiding with the line or verbal help on the track or at the articles, faulty pick up/indication of the articles and false indication.  Tracking is terminated if the handler leaves the track by more than one lead length.

 If the dog starts to leave the track and the handler restrains it, the judge will instruct the handler to follow the dog.  Tracking is terminated if the handler fails to follow the judge's instructions.  If the track is not completed within 15 minutes from the time the dog was put on the track, the judge will terminate tracking.  The performance shown before tracking was terminated will be scored. 

 It is incorrect for a dog to both indicate and pick up articles on the track.  A rating is given only for articles indicated in the manner announced to the judge when the handler reported in. Faulty indication/picking up of an article is included in the evaluation of the corresponding leg.

 No points are given for articles that are not indicated/picked up.   

 The distribution of points, for each individual leg, for maintaining the track has to reflect the length and the degree of difficulty.  Each leg is evaluated in points and ratings.  If the dog is not tracking (lingering in the same place and the dog is not tracking), the judge may terminate the tracking even though the dog is still on the track

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VPG 2, Part B

 Exercise 1        Heeling off lead                                   10 points

Exercise 2        Sit in motion                                        10 points

Exercise 3        Down with recall                                 10 points

Exercise 4        Walking stand                                      10 points

Exercise 5        Retrieve on the flat                              10 points

Exercise 6        Retrieve over hurdle                            15 points

Exercise 7        Retrieve over scaling wall                   15 points

Exercise 8        Send-out with down                            10 points

Exercise 9        Down under distraction                       10 points

Total                                                                          100 points 

 General Regulations:

The judge gives the signal to begin each exercise.  Everything else, such as about turns, halts, changes of pace, etc. is carried out without any signal from the judge.

 The commands are described in the guidelines.  Verbal commands are spoken normally -- brief commands, consisting of one word.  The commands may be given in any language, but the same command is to be used for the same action every time.  If, after three commands, a dog fails to perform the exercise or part of the exercise, the exercise is terminated without a score.  For the recall it is permissible to use the dog's name instead of the command "Hier/Come or Here".  However, using the dog's name in conjunction with a "Here" command is considered a double command.

 In the basic position, the dog sits straight, close to the handler's left side, with its right shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.  Each exercise begins and ends in the basic position.  The handler is permitted to assume the basic position only once at the start of an exercise.  Briefly praising the dog is permitted only at the end of each exercise with the dog in the basic position.  After praising the dog, the handler can assume a new basic position.  In any case, between praising the dog and the start of a new exercise, the handler must show a distinct pause of about 3 seconds.

 An exercise [motion exercise] develops from the basic position.  The handler must show a minimum of 10 paces or a maximum of 15 paces before giving the verbal command for the execution of the exercise.  Between all fronts and finishes, as well as when the handler returns to the dog in the sit in motion or walking stand or to the dog on the long down, a distinct pause (approximately 3 seconds) is to be observed, before the next command may be given.  When picking up the dog, the handler may go directly to the dog's side or go around behind the dog.

 The heel position is to be maintained at all times between exercises. The dog must accompany the handler when picking up the dumbbells.  Playing with the dog or "pumping" it up is not permitted.

 The about turn is executed by the handler as a left about turn.  The dog can either go around behind the handler or back up [to the left] from the front. [The dog stays on the left side of the handler.] The left turn must be performed in the same manner throughout the trial. 

 The dog may perform the finish by going around behind the handler or by executing a flip finish from in front of the handler.

 The solid hurdle (without a flexible top) is 100 cm high and 150 cm wide. The scaling wall consists of two parts connected at the top.  The two sides of the wall are 150 cm wide and 191 cm high.  The wall is positioned on the ground in such a way that the vertical height is 180 cm.  Both sides of the scaling wall must be covered with a nonskid material.  Three cleats (approximately 24/48 mm) shall be attached to the upper part.  All dogs entered in a trial must use the same obstacles.

 Only dumbbells are permitted to be used (retrieve on the flat -- 1,000 gm/1Kilo; over the jump and wall, 650 g) for the retrieval exercises.  The dumbbells provided by the host club are to be used by all participants.  It is not permitted to place the dumbbell in the dog's mouth prior to the exercise.

 If a handler forgets to perform an exercise, the judge will instruct the handler to perform the missing exercise.  No points are deducted for this.

 1.         Heeling off lead                       10 points

 a) Commands

A command to work at heel  = Fuß/Heel

The handler is permitted to use the command only when starting an exercise and at the change of pace.

 b) Execution of the exercise

At the beginning of Part B, the handler reports to the judge with the dog heeling off lead and puts the dog in the basic position.   At the heel command, from the basic position, the dog must follow the handler attentively and happily, straight by the handler's left side. The dog's shoulder must stay aligned with the handler's left knee and when the handler stops, the dog must automatically sit quickly and straight.  At the start of the exercise handler and dog must walk 50 paces straight ahead, without stopping, perform an about turn and after 10-15 more paces, show the fast and slow (a minimum of 10 paces each).  The transition from fast to slow is performed without any transitional paces in between.  [In other words, the handler goes directly from fast into slow.] The two different paces must be performed at distinctly different speeds.  Then, at a normal pace, handler and dog must perform at least one right turn, one left turn and one about turn.  A halt from the normal pace must be performed at least once.  As the handler and the dog walk down the first leg [of the heeling pattern], two shots are fired (caliber 6 mm), five seconds apart, at a distance of at least 15 paces from the dog.  The dog must remain indifferent to the gunshots.  On instruction from the judge, at the end of the [heeling] exercise, the handler and the dog go through a moving group, consisting of at least four people.  In the group, the handler must heel the dog around two people, one to the left and one to the right and must halt at least once in the group.  The judge is entitled to ask the handler to repeat the exercise.  The handler and the dog leave the group and assume the basic position.

 c) Evaluation:

Deductions can be made accordingly for forging, heeling wide or sideways, lagging, slow or hesitant sits, additional commands, physical help from the handler, inattentiveness during heeling at all paces and turns and /or an unhappy working attitude of the dog.

 2.         Sit in motion                10 points

 a) Commands

One command each to heel and sit = Fuß/Heel and Sitz/Sit.

 b) Execution of the exercise

From the basic position the handler goes straight ahead with the dog heeling off lead.  After 10-15 paces, the handler gives the command to sit and the dog must sit quickly and straight without the handler stopping, altering speed or looking back at the dog.  The handler continues another 30 paces, then stops and immediately turns to face the calmly sitting dog.  At the judge's signal the handler returns to the dog and takes the position on the dog's right side. 

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made for incorrect development, slow sit, or a restless and inattentive sit.  Five points will be deducted if the dog downs or stands.

 3. Down with recall                  10 points

 a) Commands 

One command each for heeling, down, recall and finish = Fuß/Heel, Platz/Down, Hier/Come or Here (The call name of the dog can be used instead of come command) and Fuß/Heel.)

 b) Execution of the Exercise

From the basic position the handler goes straight ahead with the dog heeling off lead.  After 10-15 paces, the handler gives the down command. The dog must down quickly without the handler stopping, altering speed or looking back at the dog. The handler continues on for another 30 paces, then stops and immediately turns to face the dog calmly lying [on the field].  At the judge's signal the handler calls the dog, using a recall command or the dog's name.  The dog must come directly [to the handler], happily and quickly and must sit straight in front, close to the handler.  At the heel command, the dog must quickly go to the basic position, straight beside the handler with its shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made accordingly for incorrect development, downing slowly, restlessness, slow recall or slowing down on the recall to the handler, straddle-legged stance by the handler, incorrect front sit and/or incorrect finish. If the dog stands or sits after receiving the down command, 5 points will be deducted.

 4. Walking Stand                                 10 points

 a) Commands

One command each for heel, stand, sit = Fuß/Heel, Steh/Stand, Sitz/Sit

 b) Execution of the Exercise

From the basic position, with the dog heeling off lead, the handler walks straight ahead.  After 10-15 paces, the handler gives the dog the stand command and the dog must immediately stand facing the direction of movement, without the handler stopping, altering speed or looking back.  After walking an additional 30 paces straight ahead, the handler stops and immediately turns to face the dog standing calmly in place.  At the judge's signal, the handler returns directly to the dog and takes the position on the dog's right side.  After about a 3-second pause, at the judge's signal, the dog is given the sit command and must sit quickly and straight.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made for incorrect development, stretching out the command, restlessness, taking steps towards the handler, restlessness as the handler returns, sitting slowly at the command.  Five (5) points will be deducted if the dog sits or downs on the stand command.

 5.         Retrieve on the flat                  10 points

 a) Commands

One command each to retrieve, release the dumbbell and finish = Bring/Fetch, Aus/Out, Fuß/Heel.

 b) Execution of the Exercise

From a straight basic position the handler throws a dumbbell (weight: 1000 g) about 10 paces.  The retrieve command is not to be given until the dumbbell stops moving.  The dog must sit calmly off lead next to the handler until it receives the command to retrieve and then must run quickly, straight to the dumbbell, immediately pick it up and quickly return with it, directly to the handler.  The dog must sit straight in front, close to the handler.  The dog must hold the dumbbell calmly in its mouth until the handler, after a pause of about three seconds, gives the release command and takes the dumbbell.  The dumbbell is to be held quietly in the handler's right hand with the arm stretched out along the right side of the body. On the heel command, the dog must quickly go to the basic position, straight beside the handler's left side with its shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.  The handler is not permitted to change position during the entire exercise.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made for incorrect basic position, going slowly to the dumbbell, incorrect pick up, slow return [to the handler], dropping the dumbbell, playing with or mouthing the dumbbell, straddle-legged stance by the handler, incorrect front sit and incorrect finish.  Throwing the dumbbell too short as well as handler help without changing position will result in a point deduction. 

 If the handler leaves his/her position before the exercise is completed, the exercise will be rated unsatisfactory.   If the dog does not retrieve the dumbbell, the exercise will be evaluated with 0 points.

 6.         Retrieve over hurdle (100 cm = 39.5")              15 points

 a) Commands

One command each to jump, retrieve, release the dumbbell, heel to finish = Hopp/Hupp or Over, Bring/Fetch, Aus/Out or Give, Fuß/Heel.

 b) Execution of the exercise

The handler and dog assume the basic position at least 5 paces in front of the jump.  From the basic position the handler throws a dumbbell (650g) over the 100cm high jump. The command to jump may not be given until the dumbbell has stopped moving. The dog must sit calmly off lead next to the handler until it receives the command to jump and retrieve (the command to retrieve must be given while the dog is jumping). Upon command, the dog must jump the hurdle, run quickly, direct to the dumbbell, immediately pick it up and quickly return with the dumbbell, directly back over the hurdle to the handler.  The dog must sit straight in front, close to the handler.  The dog must hold the dumbbell calmly in its mouth until the handler, after a pause of about three seconds, gives the release command and takes the dumbbell. The dumbbell is to be held quietly in the handler's right hand with the arm stretched out along the right side of the body. On the heel command, the dog must quickly go to the basic position, straight beside the handler's left side with its shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.  The handler is not permitted to change position during the entire exercise.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions may be made accordingly for incorrect basic position, slow jump out, incorrect pick up, slow return over the jump, dropping the dumbbell, playing with or mouthing the dumbbell, straddle-legged stance by the handler, incorrect front sit and incorrect finish.  For touching the hurdle up to 1 point must be deducted per jump and for stepping on the hurdle up to 2 points must be deducted. 

A partial score for the exercise is possible only if at least two out of the three parts of the exercise (jump out -- retrieve - return jump) are completed. 

Both jumps perfect, retrieve without fault                                      =          15 points

Jump out or return jump refused, retrieve without fault                    =          10 points

Both jumps perfect, dumbbell not retrieved                                   =          10 points

 If the dumbbell lands substantially to one side or is not readily visible to the dog, the handler may ask the judge for a re-throw or may do so at the judge's suggestion.  No point deduction results. The dog must remain sitting in place.

 Any handler help without changing position is evaluated accordingly.  If the handler leaves his/her position before the exercise is completed, the exercise is rated unsatisfactory

 7.         Retrieve over the scaling wall (180 cm = 71")              15 points

 a) Commands

One command each to climb over, retrieve, release, heel to finish = Hopp/Hupp or Over, Bring/Fetch, Aus/Out or Give, Fuß/Heel.

 b) Execution of Exercise

The handler and dog assume the basic position at least 5 paces in front of the scaling wall.  From the basic position the handler throws a dumbbell (650g) over the wall. The dog must sit calmly off-lead next to the handler until it receives the command to jump and retrieve (the command to retrieve must be given while the dog is climbing over the wall).  Upon command, the dog must climb the wall, run quickly direct to the dumbbell, immediately pick it up, return at once back over the wall and quickly bring the dumbbell directly to the handler. The dog must sit straight in front, close to the handler, holding the dumbbell calmly in its mouth until the handler, after a pause of about three seconds, gives the release command and takes the dumbbell. The dumbbell is to be held quietly in the handler's right hand with the arm stretched out along the right side of the body. On the heel command, the dog must go quickly to the basic position, straight beside the handler's left side with its shoulder aligned with the handler's knee.  The handler is not permitted to change position during the entire exercise.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions may be made accordingly for incorrect basic position, slow climb over, incorrect pick up, slow return back over the wall, dropping the dumbbell, playing with or mouthing the dumbbell, straddle-legged stance by the handler, incorrect front sit and incorrect finish.

 A partial score for the exercise is possible only if at least two out of the three parts of the exercise (climb over - retrieve - return climb) are completed.

 Both climb over and back and retrieve without faults                                  =          15 points

Climb over or back refused, retrieve without faults                          =          10 points

Climb over and back perfect, dumbbell not retrieved                                   =          10 points

 If the dumbbell lands substantially to one side or is not readily visible to the dog, the handler may ask the judge for a re-throw or may do so at the judge's suggestion.  No point deduction results. The dog must remain sitting in place.

 Any handler help without changing position is evaluated accordingly.  If the handler leaves his/her position before the exercise is completed, the exercise is rated unsatisfactory

 8.         Send out with down                            10 points

 a) Commands

One command each to heel, go, down, sit  = Fuß/Heel, Voraus/Go, Platz/Down, Sitz/Sit.

 b) Execution of Exercise

From the basic position with the dog off lead, the handler walks straight ahead in the direction indicated by the judge.  After 10-15 paces the handler gives the dog the command to go.  Simultaneously the handler lifts his/her arm (only once) and stops.  The dog must go out purposefully, at a fast pace and in a straight line, at least 30 paces in the indicated direction.  At the judge's signal, the handler gives the command to down.  The dog must down immediately.  The handler may keep the arm raised until the dog downs.  On the judge's signal, the handler goes to the dog and takes up a position on the dog's right side.  After about three seconds, at the judge's signal, the handler gives the dog a sit command and the dog must sit quickly and straight into a basic position.

 c)  Evaluation

The following errors will be evaluated accordingly: incorrect development, the handler follows the dog [after giving the go out command], dog goes out too slowly, strong deviation to the side, distance is too short, downs slowly or prematurely, is restless on the down or stands up/sits up prematurely when picked up.

 9.         Down under distraction                       10 points

 a)  Commands

One command each for  Ablegen, Aufsetzen (Down, Sit)  = Platz/Down, Sitz/Sit

 b) Execution of the Exercise

At the beginning of the obedience routine for another dog, the handler downs the dog from a correct basic position at a location designated by the judge.  No lead or article is left with the dog.  Without turning around, the handler then walks away a minimum of 30 paces from the dog.  The handler remains on the trial field and stands quietly in sight of the dog, facing away from the dog. The dog must remain calmly in the down position without any influence from the handler while the other dog performs exercises 1 though 6.  At the judge's signal, the handler returns to the dog and takes the position on the dog's right side. After about three seconds, at the judge's signal, the handler gives the dog the command to sit.  The dog must sit up quickly and straight into a basic position.

 c)  Evaluation

Restless behavior by the handler or other hidden handler help or if the dog is restless during the down or stands up/sits up prematurely when the handler returns will be evaluated accordingly.  If the dog sits up or stands up, but remains in the designated area, partial points will be given.  If the dog moves from the designated area by more than 3 meters before the other dog has completed exercise 3, zero points will be given for this exercise.  If the dog leaves the designated area after exercise 3 is completed, partial points will be received.  If the dog walks towards the handler when the handler returns to the dog, up to 3 points may be deducted.

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VPG 2, Part C

 Exercise 1:       Search for the helper                                                    5 points

Exercise 2:       Hold and bark                                                              10 points

Exercise 3:       Prevention of an attempted escape of the helper        10 points

Exercise 4:       Defense of an attack during the guarding phase         20 points

Exercise 5:       Back transport                                                                5 points

Exercise 6:       Attack on the dog out of the back transport                 30 points

Exercise 7:       Attack on the dog out of motion          [long bite]        20 points

Total                                                                                                    100 points

General regulations:

In a suitable location six blinds are to be set up along the length of the field, in a staggered fashion, three on each side (see sketch).  Essential marks must be clearly visible for the handler, the judge and the helper.

 The helper must be equipped with a protection suit, sleeve and soft stick.  The sleeve must be equipped with a bite bar and the sleeve cover must be made from natural colored jute.  If it is necessary for the helper to keep a close eye on the dog during the guarding phase, the helper is not required to stand still, though he is not permitted to make any threatening or defensive movements.  The helper must protect his body with the sleeve.  It is up to the handler how he/she chooses to disarm the helper. (See also Helper Regulations)

 It is possible to work all trial levels with a single helper.  If more than 7 dogs are entered in the trial, two helpers should be used.   The same helper(s) should be used to work all dogs within the same trial level. 

 If a dog is out of control and will not out after a defense exercise, or will out only through physical influence from the handler, or dogs which bite the helper anywhere other than on the bite sleeve must be disqualified.  No TSB rating is given.

 If dogs fail during a defense exercise [i.e., fail to engage or come off the sleeve and won't re-engage] or can be chased away, protection is terminated.  The dog does not receive a score.  A TSB rating is given.

 The out command is permitted one time during all defense exercises. See the table below for the scoring for the "out".

1.         Search for the helper              5 points

 a) Commands

One command each to search, come or here (The "Hier/Here command may be used in conjunction with the dog's name.)  = Voran or Revier/Search, Hier/Here or Come

 b) Execution of the exercise

The helper is located in the last blind, out of sight of the dog.  With the dog off lead, the handler takes a position between the second and third blinds in order to be able make four side searches [of the field].  At the judge's signal Part C begins.  With a search command in conjunction with visible signal with the right or left arm (which may be repeated), the dog must quickly leave the handler and purposefully circle the  indicated blind, tightly and alertly.   As soon as the dog has searched the blind the handler calls the dog (the dog's name may be used in conjunction with the command) and, while moving up field, sends the dog with another search command into the next blind.  The handler moves at a normal pace down an imaginary centerline [of the field].  The handler must remain in the center of the field during the blind search.  The dog must search in front of the handler.  When the dog reaches the find blind, the handler must stop and stand still and no further commands are permitted. 

 c) Evaluation

 Deductions can be made according to limitations concerning manageability, [lack of] fast and purposeful approach to the blinds as well as tight, attentive circling of the blinds.

 2.         Hold and bark                          10 points

 a) Commands

One command each to come to heel position = Hier/Fuß, Come or Here/Heel [Given as a single command.] 

 b) Execution of the Exercise

The dog must actively and intently confront the helper, barking continuously.  The dog is not permitted to jump on or bite the helper.  After approximately 20 seconds, at the judge's signal, the handler approaches the blind and stops about 5 paces away.  At the judge's signal the handler calls the dog out of the blind into heel position.   

 c)  Evaluation

Deductions will be made based on limitations regarding continuous, challenging barking and intense guarding, uninfluenced by the judge or the approach of the handler until the call out command is given.  Continuous barking will earn 5 points. If the dog only barks weakly, 2 points are deducted.  If the dog does not bark but guards the helper actively, intently and tightly, 5 points are deducted.  Molesting the helper, for example bumping, jumping on, etc., results in a deduction of up to 2 points.  Up to 9 points may be deducted for hard biting.  If the dog leaves the helper before the judge signals the handler to leave the center [of the field], the dog may be sent to the blind again.  If the dog stays with the helper this time, protection may be continued, though the hold and bark is to be rated "insufficient".  If the dog will not search the blind or leaves the helper again, phase C is terminated. If the dog returns to the handler as the handler approaches the blind, or the dog returns to the handler prior to receiving the call out command, partial points are given reflecting an "insufficient" rating.

 3.         Prevention of an Escape Attempt by the Helper          10 points

 a) Commands

One command each to heel, down, out = Fuß/Heel, Platz/Down, Aus/Out

 b) Execution of the Exercise

At the judge's signal, the handler orders the helper out of the blind.  The helper moves at a normal pace to the designated location for the escape.  At the judge's signal, with the dog heeling off lead, the handler goes to the designated down location for the escape. The distance between dog and helper is 5 paces.  The handler leaves the dog in the down position, guarding the helper and goes into the blind, maintaining visual contact with the dog, the judge and the helper.  At the judge's signal the helper tries to escape.  The dog must immediately and independently forcibly prevent the escape, by means of an energetic and strong bite.  The dog may only bite the protection sleeve.  On the judge's signal the helper stands still.  When the helper stops moving the dog must release immediately.  The handler may independently give an out command within an appropriate time. 

 If the dog does not out after the first command, the handler will receive the judge's instruction to give up to two additional out commands.  If the dog does not out after receiving three commands (one permitted plus two additional commands), the team is disqualified.  While giving the out command, the handler must stand still, without influencing the dog.  Once the dog has outed, it must remain close to the helper and guard him intently.

 c)  Evaluation

Deductions will be made according to qualifying factors concerning important evaluation criteria: rapid, energetic response and pursuit combined with a powerful grip and energetic prevention of the escape, full, calm bite until given the out command; intense, tight guarding of the helper.  If the dog remains in the down position or has not prevented the escape by biting and holding tightly before the helper has taken about 20 steps, the protection is terminated. 

 If the dog is somewhat inattentive and/or bothers the helper slightly while guarding, the exercise will be marked down by one grade.  If the dog is guarding the helper very inattentively and/or bothers the helper a lot, the exercise is marked down by two grades.  If the dog does not guard the helper but stays with him, the exercise is marked down by three grades.  If the dog leaves the helper or if the handler gives the dog a verbal command to stay with the helper, phase C is terminated. 

 4.         Defense of the dog during guarding phase [Reattack]             20 points

 a) Commands 

One command each to out and come to heel position = Aus/Out, Fuß/Heel

 b) Execution of the Exercise

After a guarding [the helper] for about 5 seconds, at the judge's signal, the helper attacks the dog.  Without any influence from the handler, the dog must defend itself by an energetic, powerful bite. The dog may only bite the helper's protection sleeve.  As soon as the dog has bitten, the helper gives [the dog] two stick hits.  Hits may only be applied to the shoulders and the area of the withers.  At the judge's command, the helper stands still.  After the helper stops, the dog must immediately out. The handler may independently give an out command within an appropriate time period. 

 If the dog does not out after the first command, the handler will receive the judge's instruction to give up to two additional out commands.  If the dog does not out after receiving three commands (one permitted plus two additional commands), the team is disqualified.  While giving the out command, the handler must stand still, without influencing the dog.  Once the dog has outed, it must remain close to the helper and guard him intently.  At the judge's signal, at a normal pace, the handler walks directly to the dog and puts the dog into the basic position.  The handler does not take the stick from the helper.

 c)  Evaluation

Deductions will be made according to qualifying factors concerning important evaluation criteria: quick, strong response; full, calm bite until given the out command; intense, tight guarding of the helper.

 If the dog is somewhat inattentive and/or bothers the helper slightly while guarding, the exercise will be marked down by one grade.  If the dog guards the helper very inattentively and/or bothers the helper a lot, the exercise is marked down by two grades.  If the dog does not guard the helper but stays with him, the exercise is marked down by three grades.  If the dog comes toward the handler as he/she approaches, the exercise is rated as insufficient.  If the dog leaves the helper before the judge gives the handler the signal to approach or if the handler gives the dog a verbal command to stay with the helper, phase C is terminated.

 5.         Back Transport                                                5 points

 a) Commands

A command to heel  = Fuß/Heel

 b) Execution of the Exercise

Exercise 4 (Reattack) is followed by the back transport of the helper over about 30 paces.  The judge determines the direction of the back transport.  With the dog heeling off lead, the handler will instruct the helper to walk forward and follows behind him [at a distance of] about 5 paces.  The dog should watch the helper closely.  The distance of 5 paces must be maintained through the entire back transport.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made according to limitations regarding important evaluation criteria, such as [the dog] watching the helper attentively, correct heeling, maintaining the required distance [behind the helper].

 6.         Attack on the dog out of the Back Transport                30 points

 a) Commands

One command each for out and heel = Aus/Out, Fuß/Heel

 b) Execution of the Exercise

At a signal from the judge and while moving, an attack is performed out of the back transport.  Without hesitation and without any influence from the handler, the dog must defend against the attack by a strong, energetic bite.  The dog may bite only the helper's sleeve.  As soon as the dog has bitten, the handler must immediately stand still.  At the judge's signal, the helper stops attacking.  As soon as the helper stops, the dog must immediately out.  The handler can give an out command within an appropriate period of time.

 If the dog does not out after the first command, the handler will receive the judge's instruction to give up to two additional out commands.  If the dog does not out after receiving three commands (one permitted plus two additional commands), the team is disqualified.  While giving the out command, the handler must stand still, without influencing the dog.  Once the dog has outed, it must remain close to the helper and guard him intently.  At the judge's signal, at a normal pace, the handler walks directly to the dog and puts the dog into the basic position.  The handler does not take the stick from the helper.

 c) Evaluation

Deductions will be made according to limitations regarding important evaluation criteria such as a quick and powerful strike; full, calm bite until given the out command; close, intense guarding after outing.

 If the dog is somewhat inattentive and/or bothers the helper slightly while guarding him, the exercise will be marked down by one grade.  If the dog guards the helper very inattentively and/or bothers the helper a lot, the exercise is marked down by two grades.  If the dog does not guard the helper but stays with him, the exercise is marked down by three grades.  If the dog comes toward the handler as he/she approaches, the exercise is rated as insufficient.  If the dog leaves the helper before the judge gives the handler the signal to approach or if the handler gives the dog a verbal command to stay with the helper, phase C is terminated.

 7.         Attack on the Dog out of Motion [Long Bite]                            20 points

 a)  Commands

One command each to sit, confront or go, out, heel = Sitz/Sit, Stell oder Voran/ Hold or Go, Aus/Out, Fuß/Heel

 b) Execution of the Exercise

The handler is sent with the dog to a marked spot on the centerline of the field, level with the first blind.  The handler may hold the dog by its collar but may not stimulate the dog.  At the judge's signal, the helper steps out of the blind, carrying the soft stick, and runs to the centerline of the field. The helper ignores the handler's command to stop and runs towards the handler and dog (at a running pace), attacking them head-on, while yelling and making vigorous threatening gestures.  As soon as the helper has reached a point about 50 to 40 paces from the handler and dog, the judge signals the handler to release the dog and he/she does so with a command "to defend" [against the attack]. The dog must defend against the attack without hesitation by an energetic, strong bite. The dog may only bite the helper's protection sleeve.  The handler may not move from his/her position.  On a signal from the judge, the helper stops the attack.  After the helper has stopped the attack and is standing still, the dog must immediately out. The handler may independently give an out command within an appropriate period of time. 

 If the dog does not out after the first command, the handler will receive the judge's instruction to give up to two additional out commands.  If the dog does not out after receiving three commands (one permitted plus two additional commands), the team is disqualified.  While giving the out command, the handler must stand still, without influencing the dog.  Once the dog has outed, it must remain close to the helper and guard him intently.  At the judge's signal, at a normal pace, the handler walks directly to the dog and puts the dog into the basic position.  The soft stick is taken from the helper.

 A side transport of the helper to the judge follows over a distance of about 20 paces.  A heel command is allowed.  The dog must walk on the helper's right side, so that the dog is in between the handler and the helper.  The dog must watch the helper closely during the transport.  The dog may not bother, jump on or bite the helper.  The group stops in front of the judge, the handler presents the soft stick to the judge and reports that Part C is completed.  At the instruction of the judge, before the critique, the dog is put on lead.

 c)  Evaluation

Deductions will be made according to qualifying factors concerning important evaluation criteria: energetic defense with a powerful strike; a full, calm bite until the out, intense, tight guarding of the helper. 

 If the dog is somewhat inattentive and/or bothers the helper slightly while guarding, the exercise will be marked down by one grade.  If the dog guards the helper very inattentively and/or bothers the helper a lot, the exercise is marked down by two grades.  If the dog does not guard the helper but stays with him, the exercise is marked down by three grades.  If the dog comes toward the handler as he/she approaches, the exercise is rated as insufficient.  If the dog leaves the helper before the judge gives the handler the signal to approach or if the handler gives the dog a verbal command to stay with the helper, phase C is terminated. 

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