how do i tell if my gsd would be a good for SAR work, he is 3yr old, has a great temperment,has schutzhund training and really loves to work. plus what training do humans need?
A very strong play and hunt drive. Ideally, it should be started young but the right dog will do well with the right training. YOu need to contact a local SAR team and find out what their qualifications are....If they have any. I receintly left the team I was on because of conflicts about training. To many chiefs that don't know what they are doing. That's the norm, unfortunately. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />
There are many disciplines of K9 SAR, so the requirements vary. Like Bob said, typically High prey drive, little defense or high defensive threshold dogs are a good start.
There is a LOT of training for the humans and an ability to take off work as needed for call-outs. Also you need to determine if you have interest in Wilderness or Disaster SAR. Two different disciplines with very different training and commitment requirements.
What area/state do you live in? Some have it more together than others.
Virginia has a class act and, unfortunatly, is not typical of many states.
If you can find a team, the best way is to go volunteer to "be a victim" for them for awhile and see if it is what you expected -- many teams do not let newcomers train dogs until the handlers complete their training.
Jason Shipley Webboard User Reg: 05-13-2005
Posts: 220
Loc: northern Illinois
Offline
Chris,
I am a member of Chicago Regional SAR, you would be welcome to come out to a practice and observe what we do. PM me and I will put you in touch with the unit leader.
How can you tell if your dog has strong hunt drive??
A few basic tests are -
1. Take your dogs toy, throw it into tall grass. Hold the dog for 30 seconds and then let him go. Does he search for the toy? For how long?
2. Same thing, but turn your dog in a circle(after you throw the toy), and then then wait 1 minute. How long does he search?
As for the dog being SchH trained, that could be a problem, as many groups must exlude dogs with bite work due to insurance reasons. So make sure you let them know up front about any bite work the dog has done.
Does it matter when the dog starts? What I mean , is does age matter? I have a 6 yr old female, outstanding drive. Sch didn't work due to the drive time and she ended up with mild HD. Although you would never know! She does whatever she wants.
Shari
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