New AKC Proposed Working Dog Sport

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FOREWORD For thousands of years a unique and amazing bond and the ability to work together as a team have developed and been fostered between man and the dog Dogs have worked with us to hunt our food herd our livestock eliminate vermin protect our property and person and serve important roles in the military and law enforcement

For over a century AKC has sponsored competitive events that enable breeders and owners to demonstrate the maintenance and development of the characteristics for which the dogs have been bred as well as the ability of a human and canine to perform together as a finely honed team Over the years these events have come to include hunting herding coursing going to ground Obedience Tracking and Agility While human canine teams have long served a role in the military in law enforcement and in search and rescue or recovery efforts following natural or man made disasters how crucial these roles really were became poignantly clear in the days following September 11 2001 Whether it be protecting vital facilities detecting dangerous substances or finding and rescuing survivors and recovering the victims of terrorist attacks the role of the intensely trained human canine team has never been more important

In keeping with its long standing tradition and history AKC is now proposing the establishment of a Working Dog Sport designed to demonstrate the development and advancement of the skills instincts and teamwork so necessary for use in defending the country and in reacting to threats and attacks against it The exercises in this event would enable these participants to show the versatility and competency in demonstrating a variety of skills simultaneously In developing these exercises facets of other AKC events including Obedience Agility and Tracking have been incorporated

The ultimate goal of the Working Dog Sport is to provide a sport that is challenging and of interest to a large audience of breeders and participants It is also to increase awareness and to identify and expand the pool of dogs that with further training could possibly be of use in the various tasks necessary for security

CHAPTER 1 General Regulations The word dog wherever used in these Regulations includes both sexes Section 1 Eligibility of Clubs to Hold Working Dog Sport Events The Board of Directors of the American Kennel Club may in its discretion grant permission to AKC clubs to hold Working Dog events which shall be governed by such Regulations as from time to time shall be determined by the

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Board of Directors All AKC clubs may apply to hold Junior Senior and Open level tests Only AKC Parent Clubs are eligible to host Master level tests Initially only the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and the Doberman Pincher Club of America will be eligible to host a Masters Test The time frame designated for Masters Test shall be known as the Pilot Program which shall commence on the date the AKC Board approves the first AKC approved Working Dog Sport After a one year anniversary date other Parent Clubs may make application to the AKC to hold a Working Dog Sport Event provided said club has successfully completed a Sanctioned Event in the following levels Junior Level I Senior Level I Open Level II and Masters Level III The Parent Club holding the Sanctioned Event must gain the approval of the AKC

Section 2 Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline All of AKC's Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline shall apply to all AKC sanctioned licensed and member club Working Dog Events Section 3 Making Application An AKC club that meets all the requirements of the American Kennel Club and wishes to hold a Working Dog Event at which qualifying scores toward titles may be awarded must make application to The American Kennel Club on the form provided for permission to hold a Working Dog Event If the club is not a member of The American Kennel Club it shall pay a license fee for the privilege of holding such event the amount of which shall be determined by the Board of Directors of The American Kennel Club If the club fails to hold its event at the time and place which have been approved the amount of the license fee paid will be returned Applications for AKC licensed and member club Working Dog Events must be received at least twenty four weeks prior to the closing date At present the license fee for a Working Dog Event is 50.00 No fee is required of an AKC member club for the first Working Dog Event held within a calendar year but an application for a second Working Dog Event within that calendar year must be accompanied by a fee of 35.00 Each club making application to the American Kennel Club to hold either a member or licensed Working Dog Event must submit as part of the application a Disaster and Emergency Plan The Disaster and Emergency Plan must be printed in the event catalog of the event giving club Approval for licensed or member club Working Dog Events may be issued to clubs formed for the improvement of AKC recognized breeds A non member specialty club may be licensed to hold a WDS event if the consent in writing that it may be given first shall be obtained from the member specialty club formed for the improvement of the breed sought to be run which first was admitted to be a member of The American Kennel Club which member club is commonly known as the Parent Club If a Parent Club unreasonably withholds its consent in writing to the holding of such event the non member specialty club may appeal to the Board of Directors of The American Kennel Club at any time after one month from the time when said consent was requested and a committee of said Board appointed by said Board or President of The American Kennel Club or in his absence by the Executive Vice President of The American Kennel Club shall hear the parties who may present their respective contentions either orally or in writing and in its discretion may issue a license to the non member specialty club to hold such event Any AKC club may offer Junior Senior and Open Working Dog events for all AKC registerable breeds and those dogs that have been granted Indefinite Listing Privileges ILP's as well as those dogs enrolled in the FSS Foundation Stock Service but may not offer more than one of the same category at any event at which qualifying scores toward titles might be earned

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At least two test levels must be offered at all licensed and member clubs except that a club holding its first licensed or member club event may offer one test level The Master test may be offered by approved Parent clubs without any other test level being offered Only approved Parent clubs may offer the Master level

Due to the requirements and complexity of working dog situations at the different testing levels running priority should be given to the highest level Master working downward to the lowest Senior and Junior being offered by the event giving club The Board of Directors will not approve applications for Working Dog Events where qualifying scores can be awarded when dates conflict with one or more Working Dog events unless it can be shown that the granting of such permission will not work to the detriment of the clubs applying to hold the Working Dog Events

A club will not be approved for a licensed or member event if the proposed date s coincides with an approved licensed or member event s and the distance between Working Dog events is 100 miles or less An exception may be made if a club receives written clearance from the club s holding the established licensed or member s event

A club that meets all of the requirements of the American Kennel Club may be approved to hold a sanctioned Working Dog Event by applying to hold a sanctioned Working Dog Event on a form provided by the American Kennel Club Sanctioned Working Dog Events shall be governed by such simple Regulations as from time to time shall be determined by the Board of Directors

All of these Regulations shall govern AKC sanctioned Working Dog Events except those which state specifically that they apply to licensed and member Working Dog Events Section 4 Approved Working Dog Sport Personnel Approval for the Working Dog Sport Personnel shall as a minimum require attendance at an AKC approved WDS Institute Seminar and the successful completion of a written and or oral exam in addition to regulations requirements that may be in force at the time

Section 5 Entry Requirements Working Dog Events shall be open to dogs twelve months of age or over to all AKC recognized breeds except for those dogs entering the Master level whereas such dogs must be at least 18 months for Master Level I 19 months for Master Level II and 20 months for Master Level III A specialty club formed for any one of the eligible breeds may be approved to hold a Working Dog Event in which only that breed may participate When a specialty club elects to restrict entry to its own breed the premium list must specify that the event is open only to that breed

Dogs of an AKC registrable breed that have been granted Indefinite Listing Privileges ILP's and those breeds listed in the Foundation Stock Service FSS are eligible to participate in Working Dog Events A dog is not eligible to be entered or run in any licensed or member club Working Dog Event in any category if the dog has on two 2 occasions been made the subject of the following report If a dog while under judgment at an AKC licensed or member club Working Dog Event attacks another dog or a

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person while under judgment at an AKC licensed or member club event and if the Judges are unanimously of the opinion that such attack was without reasonable cause the Judges shall identify the offending dog on the judging sheet or in the Official Catalog and the name of the offending dog shall be listed in the report of the event secretary sent to The American Kennel Club

Section 6 Bitches in Season Bitches that are in season or which in the opinion of the Event Committee appear to be in season are eligible to compete They shall run immediately after all other entries in the test have run Entry fees paid for a bitch withdrawn because of coming in season or for a dog that dies shall be refunded in full by the event giving club Prior to paying such refund the club may require an appropriate veterinary certificate In the event a dog is withdrawn for other reasons the event giving club is free to formulate its own policy with reference to refunds provided that said policy shall be fixed in advance of the mailing of the premium list for any particular event Section 7 Judges Eligibility Anyone at least 21 years of age and in good standing with the American Kennel Club may apply to become an apprentice judge to judge a Working Dog Event subject to the qualifications in force at the time The applicant must submit a thorough and detailed resume of his her dog experience with particular emphasis on his her Master Level experience The applicant must have trained handled and titled at least one dog to the title of Master Level III The applicant must be recommended by at least two of the following Parent Club President Training Director parent club or Director of Judges of Parent Club The applicant must attend the AKC approved WDS seminar Neither the Working Dog Event Secretary nor any member of the Working Dog Event Committee will be approved to be published in the premium list as a Judge of any event where they serve in that capacity A dog is not eligible to be entered in any Working Dog test Junior Senior Open or Master at a licensed or member event if a judge of that test or any member of his her family or household has owned sold held under lease boarded trained or handled the dog within one year of the starting date of the test For purposes of this Section the words any member of his her family shall include a spouse a sibling a parent or a child whether natural or adopted or a partner of the Judge in question but shall not extend to other blood or legal relationships Each test level of Working Dog Events shall be judged by a qualified judge If a club must substitute or use additional judges for any reason the substitute or additional judges shall fulfill the requirements to judge as previously stated Prompt notification with the reasons for any changes shall be sent to The American Kennel Club in advance of the event Prior to commencement of his her assignment each judge of an event must sign and return to the Event Secretary the Judge's Affirmation form

Section 8 Judges Responsibility Judges must officiate over all series in their respective assignments A judge shall not handle a dog in another test until the test which he she is judging is fully completed A judge of a Working Dog test shall be familiar with all Rules Regulations and Procedures pertaining to the type of test being conducted Judges shall be thoroughly familiar with the applicable Standards and shall be responsible for judging in the compliance with the Rules Regulations and Standards

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Judges have complete authority to require a person to be removed from any area of an event or to eject from the event grounds entirely any dog that presents an unprovoked and obvious threat or clearly endangers another dog or person or that causes such disorder that it makes it impossible to continue or conduct the testing

The judges have the authority to disqualify a dog that is not present within 5 minutes after it is called to run If a dog is absent after the five 5 minute period it cannot be allowed to run in the event if it shows up later unless some previous arrangement has been made through the marshal or the chairperson

A Judge shall not handle a dog in another test level until the test level that he or she is judging is fully completed Judges decisions in all matters relating to the test they are judging are final Section 9 Apprentice Judges Apprentice Judges will perform six successful apprenticeships at AKC approved WDS events After each apprenticeship the Apprentice Judge will submit a written report and full critique to the Trial Judge within 30 days of completion of the event The event judge will forward that report with comments and assessment to the AKC Performance Events Department The AKC will notify the Apprentice Judge of successful or unsuccessful completion of that apprenticeship trial The apprentice Judge will be required to judge a minimum of 40 dogs The apprentice will take a final written and or oral exam consisting of questions based on Rules and Regulations as well as General knowledge of the Working Dog Sport Upon successful completion of the apprentice judges program the apprentice will be awarded a provisional license for a period of two years After two years as a provisional judge a review will be conducted by the Parent Club WDS Event Committee and a report will be forwarded to the AKC When a club invites persons to judge the club shall at that time advise the perspective judges of the club's intent to have a person apprenticing at the test that they are being requested to judge Clubs shall obtain the consent of the judges accepting the assignment at that test before authorizing an Apprentice Judge

Section 10 Ribbons and Rosettes A club holding a licensed or member Working Dog Event shall offer prize ribbons or rosettes Each ribbon or rosette shall be at least two inches wide and eight inches long and orange in color and shall bear on its face a facsimile of the seal of The American Kennel Club the words Qualifying Score Level Working Dog Test the name of the event giving club and the name of the test Junior Senior Open or Master The Qualification ribbon rosette will be awarded to each participant whose dog on a single day successfully completes level I or II

All ribbons or rosettes shall be offered for outright award Section 11 AKC Publications All clubs holding Working Dog Events are required to have available copies of the latest Working Dog Event regulations the Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline and AKC publications regarding misconduct at events held under AKC Rules and Regulations Section 12 Advertising No club shall advertise the dates of a Working Dog Event as being AKC approved until after the club has received notification from The American Kennel Club that the Working Dog Event has been approved

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Section 13 Training There shall be no training of dogs on the grounds of a Working Dog Event at any time during the event except when designated training areas are identified as such dogs will be permitted to practice in that area This area should not be in close proximity to the testing area unless approved by the judge Training for the purpose of this section shall be defined as any activity intended to strengthen or improve a dog's abilities skills or knowledge Special Training devices that are used to control and train dogs including but not limited to collars with prongs electronic collars used with transmitters muzzles and head collars may not be used on dogs at any AKC event Section 14 Working Dog Event Secretary Any club holding a Working Dog Event shall name a Working Dog Event Secretary who shall be a member of the club The premium list for licensed or member club Working Dog Events shall designate the Working Dog Event Secretary as receiving entries

Section 15 Working Dog Event Committee A club that has been granted permission by The American Kennel Club to hold a licensed or member Working Dog Event shall appoint a Working Dog Event Committee which will have complete responsibility for the planning and conducting of the event The Committee shall be comprised of at least five 5 members of the club and may include the Working Dog Event Secretary but the Working Dog Event Secretary shall not be designated as the Working Dog Committee Chairperson When the Master Level is offered at least three of the members of the committee must be AKC Approved Working Dog personnel A majority of the Working Dog Event Committee must be present during an AKC licensed or member Working Dog Event In the event of absence of Working Dog Committee Members the Chairman or an officiating officer shall appoint sufficient Committee Members in order to insure compliance with this section The host club through its Working Dog Committee and Working Dog Event Secretary shall be held responsible for compliance with all of the applicable Rules and Regulations for Working Dog Events except those coming under the sole jurisdiction of the judges and must provide themselves with copies of the latest editions of these books

The Working Dog Committee of a club holding a licensed or member club Working Dog Event shall have the authority to decide upon any matter arising during the running of the event except a matter coming within the jurisdiction of the Judges Section 16 Premium Lists A premium list shall be provided for licensed or member club Working Dog Events The premium list for a licensed or member club shall be printed any printing or copying process is acceptable and shall state whether the event is Licensed by The American Kennel Club or held by an AKC Member Club

The following information shall be included in the premium list for a licensed or member club Working Dog Event name of club location and date names and addresses of officers time judging will commence entry fees test s offered names and addresses of Judges together with their specific assignments name address and telephone number of the Working Dog Event Secretary date and time of closing and drawing of entries and the official AKC entry form Premium lists shall conform to the official size of from 5 inches x 8 inches to 6 inches x 9 inches

Premium lists shall also contain the name and address of the Working Dog Event Chairperson and the names of the Working Dog Event Committee members

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Before the Premium list is printed a Judges Panel Questionnaire Form containing the names and addresses of the Judges and their assignments must be submitted to AKC at least three 3 months prior to the closing date of the event Fines will be imposed for late submission of the Judges Panel At least one copy of the Premium list along with any directional maps if provided must be sent to AKC at the time they are mailed to prospective entrants Failure to submit the required premium lists will result in a fine in the amount of 50.00 being assessed the event giving club Section 17 Closing and Drawing of Entries Entries for an AKC licensed or member Working Dog Event may close at any time prior to the event but shall not close later than the third day preceding the start of the event Each entry form must be completed in full and the information given on the entry form must be that which applies to the entered dog

A club holding an AKC licensed or member club event shall not accept any entries received after the closing time and date specified in the premium list Event giving clubs may limit entries in any or all tests however when entries are limited the limitations must be printed on the premium list The order of running shall be decided by lot at the draw dogs worked by the same person or belonging to the same owner being separated when possible The draw for running order is open to the public Dogs may be run in an order different from the order in which they are drawn a When in the opinion of the Judges or the Working Dog Committee such will result in a reasonable and desirable saving of time in the conduct of the event

b When in the opinion of the Judges such will avoid unfairness or prejudice to any dog resulting from an event which has occurred in the particular test c Any bitch that comes in season after the drawing shall be moved down to run at the end of the day or at the end of the test to run last After entries have closed a dog may be moved up to the next level in a test in which it is entered when according to the owner's records the dog has met the title requirements for the test for which it was entered Notification must be made to the Event Secretary at least one half hour before the start of the event The owner handler of the dog will be required to pay any additional entry fee s necessary to participate in the higher test level Section 18 The Working Dog Event Committee may decline any entries or may remove any dog from its event for cause but in each instance shall file good and sufficient reason for doing so with The American Kennel Club Section 19 Catalogs An Official Catalog shall be provided for a licensed or member club Working Dog Event The Official Catalog shall conform to the official size of not less than 5 inches x 8 inches but shall not exceed 8 inches x 11 inches

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The Official Catalog shall list all dogs entered in each test Junior Senior Open or Master in the order in which the dogs were drawn with all identifying information called for on the entry form at least but not limited to full name of dog registration number breed date of birth and name of owner and handler if different from owner Only AKC titles may be published in the Official Catalog

The Official Catalog shall state the name of the event giving club the date and location of the event and shall state whether the Working Dog Event is Licensed by The American Kennel Club or held by an AKC Member Club The following certification must appear in the Official Catalog following the last dog listed in each test Junior Senior Open or Master

Judge's Certification I certify that dogs received Qualifying scores in this Working Dog Test and that the above information identifying these dogs was entered prior to my signing this page

Judge's Signature Judge's Signature Working Dog Secretary's Certification I certify that the Judges have verified the above information and signed this page Number of dogs entered Total Starters Total number of Qualifying scores

Date Signature of Working Dog Secretary Following completion of judging in each test the Working Dog Secretary shall make the Official Catalog with the word Qualifying next to the names of all dogs that received Qualifying scores The Judges shall then certify the accuracy of the marked awards and both the Working Dog Event Secretary and the Judges shall complete their appropriate certifications

Section 20 Submission of Records The Working Dog Event Secretary shall within seven 7 days of the completion of a licensed or member club event forward to The American Kennel Club the Official Catalog marked to indicate dogs that received Qualifying scores and signed and certified by the Judges and the Working Dog Event Secretary along with all entry forms evaluation forms need not be submitted to AKC the complete Working Dog Secretary's Report of the Working Dog Event and a signed Judge's Affirmation form for each judge

A club holding a licensed or member club Working Dog Event shall retain a copy of the Official Catalog At every licensed or member club event held under these regulations a recording fee of 5.00 shall be required for every dog entered The recording fee is to help defray expenses involved in

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maintaining the records and applies to all entries regardless of whether they participate The recording fee may be changed from time to time at the discretion of the AKC Board of Directors Penalty for noncompliance is twenty five dollars 25.00 and five dollars 5.00 for each day's delay beyond the deadline and other penalties as may be imposed by the Board of Directors of the American Kennel Club Section 21 Unsportsmanlike Conduct A It shall be deemed unsportsmanlike conduct if a person during the running of or in connection with an event abuses or harasses a Judge or official or any other person present in any capacity at the event The working Dog Event Committee shall act in accord with paragraph D of this section B Any person who displays unsportsmanlike conduct or who is seen to kick strike or otherwise manhandle a dog while on the grounds of a Working Dog event at any time during the holding of the event shall be expelled from the event by the Working Dog Event Committee which shall also act in accord with paragraph D of this Section

C The Judges shall also have the authority to expel a handler if they observe unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of the handler or see the handler kicking striking or otherwise roughly manhandling a dog while the event is in progress It will be the duty of the Judges to promptly report to the Working Dog Event Committee the expulsion of a handler and the Working Dog Event Committee shall then proceed in accord with paragraph D of this Section D The Working Dog Event Committee shall investigate at once any instance of alleged unsportsmanlike conduct or any report that a person has been observed kicking striking or otherwise roughly manhandling a dog If a Working Dog Event Committee after investigation determines that a person is in violation of this Section and that the incident if proven would constitute conduct prejudicial to the sport or The American Kennel Club it shall exercise its authority in accord with the Guide for Dealing with Misconduct

Note The power conferred to suspend a person from all privileges of The American Kennel Club applies only to Committees at licensed or member events At a sanctioned event the Committee collects evidence holds a hearing and reports its findings and conclusions to The American Kennel Club E The Working Dog Event Secretary shall submit within seven 7 days to the American Kennel Club a complete report of any action taken under this Section

Section 22 Evaluation and Scoring of a Dog's Abilities The evaluation of a dog's abilities can never be precise it is not an exact science However the primary purpose is determined by a dog's possession of a unique set of both natural abilities and abilities acquired through training A Judge must keep in mind the fact that he is evaluating numerically a defined set of abilities and not judging a dog in relation to the performances or merits of the other dogs entered A dog's abilities are scored against an established standard

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The judge observes and records in what respects and to what degrees the abilities have either exceeded or fallen short of that established standard In scoring a dog's abilities the Judges must assign a numerical score from 0 to 100 that reflects their estimation of each ability that they have seen demonstrated To qualify a dog must receive an overall average of seventy 70 for the entire test A zero score means that the dog did not perform minimally For example it would be difficult to assign a score other than a zero in an ability when the dog failed to perform that ability after having been ordered to do so several times A dog can not qualify if a score of zero is awarded in any category and will be excused from the event

Remember that Judges need not fear rating a dog's abilities very high in early series if they have exhibited excellent abilities They do not have to leave room to score another dog relatively higher in a later series The only thing they are scoring is a dog's abilities against the standard There will always be occasions when some aspect of an ability is viewed differently and Judges might not agree on a specific numerical value A Judge's responsibility is to determine through the evaluation of abilities whether or not a dog possesses sufficient abilities to be entitled to official AKC recognition of those abilities in the form of Junior Senior Open or Master titles Much can be achieved in attaining greater uniformity in evaluating the abilities through uniformity in defining and cataloging those abilities both natural and acquired

Section 23 Scorebooks Master level only The applicant who wishes to enter a WDS event must possess an AKC certified scorebook The applicant must complete a request form and submit same with payment in the amount of 10.00 to the AKC The AKC will process and return to the person a certified scorebook The scorebook shall be valid for entry into all levels of the WDS program A foreign or imported dog may enter directly in the Master Levels of the WDS program provided the entrant possesses proof of a previously awarded degree of SchH I II or III The entrant must enclose the original foreign scorebook with the application and fee when requesting an AKC scorebook The original foreign scorebook will be returned to the applicant with the certified AKC scorebook The applicant may not enter into a level higher than the dog has previously achieved All foreign dogs must successfully complete one of the Master levels for the degree to be recognized by the AKC

Section 24 Role of Parent Clubs Master level only A Parent Club that is participating in the WDS shall be responsible for the oversight of the sport and for hosting Masters events Each eligible club must designate a WDS Event committee that shall be responsible for training oversight and supervision of the Masters test events The Committee shall be responsible for establishing a program of seminars to help trainers learn to use methods that develop natural instincts so that the dogs are prepared to pass the multifaceted Masters level exams with a combination of sprit and control All such seminars must be approved by the AKC The Committee will issue quarterly reports evaluating the progress of the sport including all training seminars to the Board of the Parent club that will in turn report to the AKC All United States residents that participant in a Master level tests must

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be parent club members who have demonstrated knowledge of the sport The Parent Clubs will certify members to conduct and oversee training and determine suitability of dogs and handlers for participation in the sport The Parent clubs will establish an approval process that will provide the opportunity for testing in different parts of the country Dogs that have been awarded the following AKC titles FC Field champion AFC Amateur Field Champion OTCH Obedience Trial Champion UDX Utility Dog Excellent Herding Champion Master Agility Champion Master Hunter or BH International Companion Dog degree may enter the Master Level Program A prerequisite for entering a Masters level test is the successful completion of the BH International Companion Dog degree See Regulations for Working Dog Sport Master Levels that includes both formal and real life situation testing or holding one of the above referenced AKC titles Dogs that do not possess any one of the above listed titles must proceed through and successfully complete the Junior Senior and Open levels of the Working Dog Sport Each Parent Club will maintain an active roster of not less than three AKC approved WDS Personnel who will serve as committee members helpers trainers and mentors for prospective Master level judges Initial judges will be those recommended by the AKC recognized Parent Clubs and must be approved by the AKC The Parent Clubs affiliated working dog sport judges will also be eligible to officiate as Masters level judges SV and SV Foreign Judges or other international judges from registries organizations recognized by the AKC will be eligible to officiate Each Parent Club will develop a program for the training of apprentices including specific guidelines and procedures This training program must be approved by The American Kennel Club All apprentices shall be members of the Parent Club for a minimum of five years with a minimum of ten years in the sport and a record of successful participation at the Masters level III trials They must be approved by the WDS Event Committee of the Parent Club before beginning their apprenticeship Those currently recognized by the Parent Club s for domestic judging duties will not have to qualify though the apprentice program for submission to the AKC to become AKC Master level approved judges New apprentices will have to go through a series of apprentice trials at which time they will be required to respond to the officiating judge's questions Following the trial apprentices must provide written evaluations and scores to be graded by the officiating judge An apprentice must successfully pass each apprenticeship before he she is allowed to judge the parent club will submit the name s of the apprentice judge s and documentation of their qualifications to The American Kennel Club Performance Events Department for consideration to become an approved WDS judge as well as those judges recognized by the Parent Club s for domestic judging at the inception of this program All apprentice judges are required to attend one AKC approved WDS Institute Seminar Any approved Obedience and or Agility judge will be qualified to judge the Junior Senior and Open levels Effective Jan 1 2009 all judges must have titled a dog at the level to be judged or higher in order to be eligible to judge the Junior Senior or Open levels Section 25 Master Level Helper Program The Master Levels of the Working Dog Sport require two trained persons at National Level events who possess the skill and knowledge to support the protection phase of the Master levels

Qualifications for WDS Helpers The applicant must be a minimum of 18 years of age and a member of the parent club The applicant must have a through understanding of the protection phases of the Master Levels The applicant should also have a general knowledge of dog behavior and training principles The person should show good physical conditioning and coordination sufficient to carry out a helper's task in an assertive fair equitable consistent and safe fashion for all dogs in the event Teaching helpers shall be appointed by the Parent clubs based upon the qualifications of the applicants Foreign Teaching Helpers from clubs

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recognized by the AKC may also perform these duties All working dog sport helpers are required to attend an AKC approved WDS Institute Seminar AKC Approval Process The training to become eligible for approval as a helper requires that the applicant attend a two day training program that is comprised of the following

1 A discussion of the rules regulations and any updates by the Teaching Helper 2 Event procedure critiques on the field 3 Working at least three different dogs showing skills and a correct understanding of the rules in Master Levels I II and III 4 Pass a written oral and practical exam with a minimum of 70 points from a possible 100 points 5 Upon successful completion of the certification process the helper will be deemed able to work dogs in Master level events Sanctions Any certified helper who performs at any trial in an unfair unsafe or unsportsmanlike manner may be excused from the event and or their certification may be downgraded or revoked

Section 26 Public Relations Each Parent club participating in the WDS will construct a Public Relations strategic plan and will appoint a committee of no less than three people who will be responsible for implementing this plan The plan should include at minimum 1 A clear description of the purpose and expectations for the sport 2 Explanations of the rationale for the choice of the exercises 3 Explanations of the expected benefits to the participants the dogs and the general public resulting from the WDS 4 Written and visual material including videotapes are to be used for describing the actual nature of the sport and its goals

CHAPTER 2 PROTESTS AGAINST DOGS Section 1 Any person who is a member of a member club of The American Kennel Club or who owns a dog entered in the event or who handles a dog competing in the event may make a protest to the Event Committee against any dog competing in the event either before or after the dog has been judged alleging that it is ineligible to compete in the event or in the level in which it is entered Such a protest shall be in writing shall identify the dog protested and specify the basis for the protest shall bear the signature and address of the person who makes it and shall describe his her qualifications for making the protest It shall be filed with the Event Secretary or with the Chairperson of the Working Dog Event Committee before the closing of the event and shall be accompanied by a deposit of 25.00 which shall be returned if the protest is sustained or which will be retained by the club if the protest is not sustained Section 2 If such a protest is received the Event Committee shall hold a meeting as soon as possible The person who has made the protest must be present and the Committee shall give all parties

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concerned an opportunity to be heard and to present witnesses and evidence The Committee may call for additional evidence from other qualified persons present at the trial After hearing all of the evidence the Event Committee shall consider the matter and shall if possible reach an immediate decision and inform the persons involved

A report of the meeting giving all of the essential evidence and the Committee's decision together with the original written protest must be mailed to The American Kennel Club within 7 days of the event Section 3 An appeal to The American Kennel Club from a decision of a Event Committee on any such protest may be made by either the owner of the dog protested or the person who made the protest The appeal must be received by The American Kennel Club within 30 days after the date of the Event Committee's decision and must be accompanied by a deposit of 50.00 which shall be forfeited if the decision is sustained

Chapter Three TESTS There are four levels of competition called tests They are called Junior Senior Open and Masters Entry into the sport begins at the Junior level followed by the Senior Open and Master test There are two levels of difficulty within each test level which are designated as I and II Dogs must successfully earn one passing score at different events at each level in order to advance to the next level

EXCEPTION The Master Level shall require a passing score of 210 points from a possible 300 point test 70 points tracking 70 points obedience 70 points protection The entrant shall be required to obtain passing scores only once in order to advance to the next level The entrant will be awarded a title of WDM with scores of 70 70 70 but cannot proceed to the next level until they have achieved the scores of 70 70 80 Upon completion of these requirements an AKC certificate WDJ WDS WDO or WDM will be issued to the owner and the dog shall be identified as a WDJ WDS WDOS or WDM in all official AKC records by the appropriate suffix title

13 Masters level Open level Senior level

Junior level 13
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Each test level is designed to provide a greater challenge and a higher level of difficulty Exhibitors who wish to begin competition at the Master's level must first pass a qualifying temperament and performance test and comply with Chapter 1 Section 23 A dog that competes at any level of the Masters Test may also continue to earn titles in another level No dog will be allowed to compete in two tests or levels on the same day A dog that is not able to continue at the Master's level may continue in the sport but must begin at the Junior level and advance accordingly Credit is not transferable from one test to another The requirements of each test must be met in order to advance to the next level Judges will assign individual scores for each exercise within each level OBSTACLE SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS RINGS The WDS will use the agility ring size requirements to test dogs for each test Masters level competitions may use a larger space in order to accommodate their special needs EQUIPMENT Low and high jumps walk table tire jump tunnel seven boxes bicycle folding chairs garbage can waste basket ladders 6ft chain link fence 2 radios 2 blankets 1 umbrella book TITLES 1 Working Dog Junior Test WDJ 2 Working Dog Senior Test WDS 3 Working Dog Open Test WDO The above titles will be awarded to dogs that have one successful score at a level I and II for the Junior Senior and Open test 4 5 Working Dog Master WDM Eligibility for entry into this level require the following a Certified hips and elbows b AKC DNA certification c Microchip and enrolled in AKC CAR d Successful completion of junior senior and open Test or exempt by previous earned titles Chapter 1 Sec 24 e Successful completion of Masters Test I II III

Junior Levels Passing scores The Junior Level I scoring shall be based on a 100 point system The team must obtain a minimum score of 70 points at two different events to advance to Level II Junior Level II scoring shall be based on a 200 point system The obedience portion of Level II shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires a minimum score of 70 points to pass The tracking portion of Level II shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires 70 points to pass A team will not be awarded a WDJ title unless the team has completed a minimum score of 140 points 70 obedience 70 tracking on the

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same day The handler may encourage the dog which must show interest and acceptance of the commands and a willingness to carry out such commands When tracking the dog must find the object s and when responding to a find must respond with a passive sit or down Verbal commands and encouragement is allowed throughout Dogs are expected to focus on each task regardless of the surface or conditions Dogs that show a lack of drive or stamina will be penalized Junior Level I

Formal Obedience on leash off leash 100 points 1 On leash heeling around three unfamiliar objects such as a chair table jump etc and four helpers 15 points 2 On leash heeling with two left turns and two right turns with a sensitivity test to noise drop can with coins 10 points 3 Steadiness test Dog is held by a helper and given a sit or down command Handler walks out to a distance of 30 paces and remains in sight Pedestrians and other dogs pass by at a distance of five feet 2 minutes The dog is to maintain composure without becoming frightened or aggressive 15 points 4 Individual down with beginning distractions 1 minute Handler stands 20 paces away 10 points 5 Table jump with a sit 20 seconds Handler walks around the table during 20 second sit 10 points 6 Dog Walk Handler directs dog up and over the walk On the level surface dog must step over two unfamiliar objects such as a can towel bowl etc Object must be small as not to impede the dogs ability to step over them safely 10 points 7 Jumps over two low hurdles placed 10 paces apart that are in a straight line First hurdle is a single bar the second is panel 15 points 8 Tunnel and tire jump 15 points

Junior Level II A Practical portion 100 points 1 Heeling through a crowd of pedestrians with 2 other dogs in crowd 4 or more helpers On leash 10 points 2 Heeling through a dense crowd 8 12 helpers with towel being carried or dragged parked bicycle chair table a person on crutches and another with one open umbrella carried over head 15 points 3 Walking sit Handler proceeds 10 paces and while walking commands dog to sit Then continues for 20 paces turns and returns to the dog off leash 10 points 4 Retrieve the dog's ball placed by handler among several unfamiliar objects off leash Handler sits dog and walks toward a grouping of unfamiliar objects placing ball among the objects Dog is allowed to see ball placed Handler returns to dog and sends dog to retrieve object with return to front position 15 points 5 Retrieve dumbbell tossed on the flat off leash Handler tosses dumbbell sends dog to retrieve recalls dog to front position 15 points 6 Group down under distractions 2 minutes handlers return to dogs No more than 5 dogs in the group and one time Dogs shall be separated by a distance of approximately 7 six feet 10 points 8 Reaction to distractions on lead 10 points a Heeling past three persons one on each crutches wheelchair walker b Heeling continues and judges introduces a sudden noise dropping large book or folded chair spoon strikes a metal pan etc no closer than five feet behind dog c Heeling continues as judge introduces a person pushing shopping cart pulling a dolly or riding a bicycle that passes within five feet of dog

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9 Tunnel followed by jump on table with sit stay for 30 seconds Handler walks around table during the 30 seconds off leash 15 points The tunnel must not be closer than 15 feet from the table B Tracking scent discrimination 100 points Track 100 paces long for scent discrimination Seven boxes with a large round hole in the top equally spaced in a row An odor of anise oil is placed in one of the boxes boxes 3 to 7 but not 1 and 2 NOTE The same box used for the scent should be used each time in order that the other six boxes remain odor free Unfamiliar objects are also placed in two of the other boxes The dog is to follow the track and search each box The dog is on a 10 foot leash Any help from the handler other than verbal commands will deem the exercise faulty and no points will be awarded When the anise box is detected the dog must respond with a passive sit or down The tracklayer will not be the handler or trainer of such dog performing the test and the handler shall not know the location of the anise scent and unfamiliar objects The pure anise oil should be diluted to a ratio of one drop of pure anise to one ounce of distilled water

Senior Levels Passing score The Senior Level I scoring shall be based on a 100 point system The team must obtain a minimum score of 70 points at two different events to advance to Level II Senior Level II scoring shall be based on a 200 point system The obedience portion of Level II shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires a minimum score of 70 points to pass The tracking portion of Level II shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires 70 points to pass A team will not be awarded a WDS title unless the team has completed a minimum score of 140 points 70 obedience 70 tracking on the same day Senior level performances are all off leash At the senior level dogs are expected to maintain strong drive and stamina throughout the test In obedience the dog must be energetic and willing to work In tracking dog must work independently sniffing and actively searching In detection work dog must respond with a passive sits Dogs that fail to remain focused on the task regardless of the surface conditions and distractions or meet timed requirements will be penalized A lack of energy interest or drive will be penalized Dumbbells used in all exercises will be made of one or more solid pieces of wood or of a rigid or semi rigid firm nontoxic non wooden material similar in size shape and weight to a wooden dumbbell Metal dumbbells are not permitted Dumbbells will not be hollowed our and the size of the dumbbell must be proportionate to the size of the dog Senior Level I Obedience Off leash 100 points

1 Heeling with distractions The handler heels his dog 30 paces in a straight line during which time a loud and sudden noise occurs twice during the exercise The handler makes an about turn and after one right and one left turn the handler walks toward table and commands dog to jump on table for a down 15 seconds Handler walks around table then walks 10 paces away from table turns and recalls dog to front position 15 points 2 Walking sit Handler moves 30 paces away from dog turns and returns to dog 10 points 3 Dog walk handler directs dog over dog walk crossing over three unfamiliar objects can towel and dog brush At the bottom of walk are seven boxes with a large round hole in the top equally spaced in a row An odor X oz of anise is placed in one of the boxes boxes 3 to 7 but not 1 and 2 Unfamiliar objects are also placed in two of the other boxes The dog is asked to search each box When the anise box is detected the dog should respond with a passive sit 15 points 4 Dog Walk Handler guides dog to middle of walk turns dog around at a slow speed and returns to ground and the starting point 10 points

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5 Retrieve a ball or dumbbell with return to front position followed by a command to the heel position From a sit position the dog watches handler walk 15 20 paces away and places the ball or dumbbell amongst several other objects Dog is allowed to see the placement Handler returns to dog and commands dog to find retrieve the ball or dumbbell and return to front and then to the heel position 15 points 6 Retrieve a ball or other object Handler sits dog and proceeds 20 paces with a ball or Kong which is placed under a towel box or dish Handler returns to dog Handler and dog make a 360 degree turn before dog is sent to retrieve object Dog is to return to a front position 15 points 7 Retrieve on the flat requires dog to navigate around between and over objects as part of the search and retrieve Handler will toss dumbbell over low broad jump into a pile of objects With or without the object dog must return to front position 25 seconds allowed 10 points 8 Tunnel followed by jump on table with sit stay for 20 seconds Handler walks around table during the 20 seconds 10 points The tunnel must not be closer than 15 feet from the table Senior Level II A Obedience off lead 100 points 1 Heeling with distractions The handler heels his dog 30 paces in a straight line during which time a loud and sudden noise occurs twice during the exercise The handler makes an about turn and after one right and one left turn the handler walks toward table and commands dog to jump on table for a down 15 seconds Handler walks around table then walks 10 paces away from table turns and recalls dog to front position 10 points 2 Retrieve a ball or dumbbell with return to front position followed by a command to the heel position From a sit position the dog watches handler walk 15 20 paces away Object is placed out of sight under or between objects Dog is allowed to see the placement Handler returns to dog and commands dog to find retrieve the ball or dumbbell and return to the front position followed by a command to the heel position 15 points 3 Retrieve over a jump to recall position From sit position dog observes handler hide object under a can or box which is among several boxes and or cans Handler returns to dog and sends dog to retrieve object 15 points 4 Send away to a distance of 30 paces Handler commands dog to down then return to dog 15 points 5 Table jump sit 10 seconds followed by dog walk The table jump must not be closer than 15 feet from the dog walk Dog walk Handler directs dog over dog walk crossing over three unfamiliar objects can towel and dog brush etc and continues to tunnel and continues to tire and continues to bar jump 15 points 6 Sit down and recall under distraction From sit position handler walks 20 paces turns and commands dog to down then recalls dog 15 points 7 Group down with distractions 3 minutes Handlers downs dogs in an unused area inside the ring leaves area and is not in view No more than 5 dogs in the group and any one time Returns to dog when time elapses 15 points B Tracking and scent discrimination 100 points Track 100 paces long are laid with two 90 degree turns for scent discrimination Seven boxes with a large round hole in the top are paced in a row An odor of X oz of anise is placed in two of the boxes boxes 3 to 7 are used for the anise odor but not 1 and 2 Unfamiliar objects are also placed in three of the other boxes two boxes are left empty The dog is asked to search each box The dog is on a 10 foot leash Any help from the handler other than verbal commands will deem the exercise faulty and no points will be awarded When the anise is detected the dog must respond with a passive sit or down The tracklayer

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will not be the handler or trainer of such dog performing the test and the handler shall not know the location of the anise or the unfamiliar objects The pure anise oil should be diluted to a ration of one drop of pure anise to one ounce of distilled water

Open Test Passing score Open Level I scoring shall be based on a 200 point system The obedience portion of Level I shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires a minimum score of 70 points to pass The tracking portion of Level I shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires 70 points to pass A team will not be awarded a WDOT title unless the team has completed a minimum score of 140 70 obedience 70 tracking on the same day at two different events Open Level II scoring shall be based on a 200 point system The obedience portion of Level II shall be scored on a 200 point system which requires a minimum score of 140 points to pass The tracking portion of Level II shall be scored on a 100 point system which requires 70 points to pass A team will not be awarded a WDO title unless the team has completed a minimum score of 140 points 70 obedience 70 tracking on the same day All exercises are off leash At the open level dogs are expected to maintain strong drive and stamina throughout each exercise In obedience the dog must be energetic and willing to work In tracking the dog must continue to work regardless of distractions or surface In tracking the dog must continue to work independently sniffing and actively searching regardless of distractions or surface Finding objects require passive sits Dogs that do not meet timed requirements or who lose concentration will be penalized Open Level I Off leash

Obedience and Tracking Combinations 100 points 1 Heeling over a course that has physical and human distractions moving objects that must be negotiated Reaction to distractions 15 points a Heeling past three persons one on each crutches wheelchair walker b Heeling continues and judges introduces a sudden noise dropping large book or folded chair spoon strikes a metal pan etc no closer than five feet behind dog c Heeling continues as judge introduces person pushing shopping cart pulling a dolly or riding a bicycle whom passes within five feet of dog 2 Two dogs will do this exercise at the same time Handlers and dogs heel 30 paces apart followed by walking sit Handlers proceeds 20 paces turns and recalls dogs to the front position and then commands dog to heel position The handler 1 proceeds at a trot and directs dog over panel jump then through tunnel and tire Handler 2 begins same routine as Handler 1 approaches tire 15 points 3 Two dogs will do this exercise at the same time Handlers and dogs are 30 paces apart Walking down Handler proceeds 20 paces turns and recalls dogs to front position and then commands dog to heel position The handler 1 proceeds to trot dog over panel jump tunnel and tire All obstacles must not be closer than 15 feet apart Handler 2 begins same routine as Handler 1 approaches tire 10 points 4 Retrieve on flat with return to front position release dumbbell and command to heel position From basic position dog is sent on the flat to retrieve dumbbell that is placed among several objects 15 points 5 Retrieve over a bar jump a ball or dumbbell followed by a sit with handler return to dog 6 Retrieve a dumbbell over a high jump with a return to front position

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7 Track 100 paces long with two 90 degree turns for sent discrimination Seven boxes with a large round hole in the top equally spaced in a row Track 100 paces long are laid with two 90 degree turns for sent discrimination Seven boxes with a large round hole in the top are paced in a row An odor of X oz of anise is placed in two of the boxes boxes 3 to 7 are used of the anise odor but not 1 and 2 Unfamiliar objects are also placed in three of the other boxes The dog is asked to search each box When the anise is detected the dog should respond with a passive sit or down 60 seconds 8 Send away to a distance of at least 30 paces and on judges signal commands the dog to down Handler returns to dog 10 points 9 Down under advanced distraction 4 minutes Handler downs dog and leaves area and is not in view Returns to dog when time elapses 10 points Open Level II Obedience scent discrimination off leash 1 Heeling through a dense crowd 8 12 helpers one helper will drag a hanging towel another will walk a bicycle and a third will walk on crutches A fourth will hold an open umbrella carried over head 10 points 2 Retrieve on flat with return to front position release dumbbell and command to heel position From basic position dog is sent on the flat to retrieve dumbbell that is placed among several objects 15 points 3 Walking down with recall to front and heel position Handler will proceed forward in a normal pace and after 10 paces will command the dog to down Handler without breaking stride will continue for 20 paces and will stop and turn facing dog At the judges signal will recall the dog to front and then command to heel position 10 points 4 Retrieve over a jump a dumbbell followed by a sit with handler return to dog 15 points 5 Retrieve a dumbbell over a 5'11 scaling wall 15 points 6 Retrieve of a ball on the flat after a 20 second delay A ball is placed amongst several other objects at a distance of 20 paces After a 20 second delay the dog is sent to retrieve the ball and return to a front position 15 points 7 Send away 30 paces Dog is to down on command 10 points 8 Down under distraction 5 minutes Handler downs dog in an unused area inside the ring leaves area and is not in view Returns to dog when time elapses 10 points B Tracking 100 points Track 200 paces long is laid with two 90 degree turns and two articles on the track are hidden from sight The track is not aged and the tracklayer will not be the handler owner or trainer The dog is on a ten foot leash The dog is evaluated on intensity and ability to follow the track precisely The dog responds with a passive sit or down at each article No shoes that have spikes or cleats such as golf football soccer or baseball etc shoes shall be worn during any of the tracking events

DEFINITIONS If not specified in these regulations the definitions are listed below On leash means a leather or cloth lead or harness if not specified Off leash means without leash or harness

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Corrections means verbal non verbal and other types of encouragement One pace means the normal length of a stride taken by the handler Drift away means dogs that lag more than 3 feet over a distance of six feet Lag behind means dogs that do not maintain a position close to the handler's leg Table jump means a grooming table approximately three feet high for large dogs Smaller heights may be used for smaller dogs

Closed Tunnel The Closed Tunnel consists of a rigid entrance section to which a chute is attached The entrance section is 24 to 36 inches long with the opening either 24 inches in diameter or 24 inches in width and height with a 2 inch tolerance The top edge of the opening shall be cushioned to prevent dogs from scraping their back when entering The bottom inside surface of this section must have a non slip surface which may be provided by attaching a non slip surface which may be provided by attaching a non slip material If the entrance section is cylindrical the non slip surface must extend to a height of at least 6 inches The entrance section is either so heavy that dogs cannot move it when passing through the chute or else it shall be secured in place The major portion of the tunnel is formed by a chute which is constructed from an opaque lightweight rugged cloth like water resistant material such as rip stop nylon or pack cloth It has only two openings one of which is attached to the end of the entrance section and one through which dogs exit the tunnel The circumference of the opening section to 96 inches at the exit The length of the chute is such that the over all length of the Closed Tunnel is 12 to 15 feet At the judge's discretion the length of the fabric chute may be reduced to six feet in length in severe weather conditions Severe weather includes rain sleet and snow but does not include dew or windy conditions Walkover means the standard dog walk used in Agility 12 inch minimum in width Tire means the raised tire as used in Agility for dogs of different sizes Hurdle means a jump that is described in the exercise Encouragement means that the handler is allowed to verbally instruct the dog to carry out the command Touching and physically handling the dog is not allowed

Group down with beginning distractions means that two helpers will walk a middle line between the dogs and handlers One or both may drag a rope or may wheel a barrel cart or walk with a bicycle Group down with advanced distractions means that two helpers will walk a middle line The first will ride a bike followed by a second that will walk slowly and at various speeds Two other helpers will follow The first will drag a ten foot piece of rope followed by a helper with a dog at the heel position

HEIGHTS OF JUMPS TABLE SCALING WALL Jumps Broad Jump The Broad Jump is composed of either four 8 inch sections or five 6 inch sections and four corner markers The actual width of the 8 inch sections is 7 to 8 inches and the width of the 6 inch sections is 5 to 7 inches The sections are constructed from a top piece and two sidepieces The length of the sections are between 4 and 5 feet long and they may be of different lengths To improve

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visibility either the center of the sections or both ends must be marked with a color contrasting band that is at least 3 inches wide The sections are of varying height and they shall be arranged in ascending order Each section of a Broad Jump is at least inch higher than the previous one and the height of the front edge of a section is at least lower than the back edge No portion of any section may be lower than 3 1 2 inches or higher than 8 1 2 inches The length of the jump is twice the jump height of the division Consequently not all the sections are used in the lower height divisions In those cases the jump must be assembled with the lowest sections The length of the jump within 1 inch and the number of sections to be used for the different divisions are as follows

Division Length No Of 6 No Of 8 inches Sections Sections 8 Inch 16 2 2 12 Inch 24 3 3 16 Inch 32 4 3 20 Inch 40 5 4 24 Inch 48 5 4 The corner markers are at least 1 inch wide and 36 inches high and they may be decorated to improve visibility They are either attached to the sides of the first and last sections or they are freestanding and placed as close as possible to those positions Freestanding is recommended Panel Jump The Panel Jump uses up to six cross boards to give the illusion of a solid wall from the jump height to the ground Specifications for the board supports and uprights are the same as for the Bar Jump The cross boards are 4 to 5 feet long 3 to 4 inches wide and no thicker than 1 inch The top board for all jump height classes shall be a maximum of 4 high Panels are to be supported 1 1 4 to 1 3 4 inches below the top of the board so as to be easily displaceable The support ends for the panels are recommended to be rounded like a jump bar fitting into a jump cup This will help keep the panels on the uprights in windy conditions Flat plank ends on flat supports are discouraged Bar Jump Bar Jumps consist of bars that are supported by bar supports that are mounted to uprights The supports must be positioned so that the tops of the bars can be set within inch of the five different jump heights 8,12,16,20 and 24 inches An additional position for a bar placed 2 to 6 inches above the ground is also required Unless a jump is specified as a One Bar Jump by the judge all jumps shall have at least two bars In the Novice classes the lower bar shall be placed at about the height of the top bar In all other classes lower bar placement shall be determined by the judge The bars must be either cylindrical with 1 1 4 to 1 3 4 inch diameters or square with 1 1 4 to 1 3 4 inch sides Constructed from wood or plastic they must be 4 to 5 feet long and striped for visibility Bars cut from PVC shall be Schedule 40 The bottom of the bar sits on top of the bar supports such that the bar is easily displaced If rectangular bars are used the top of the support must be flat and no wider than the bar it is supporting If cylindrical bars are used the supports may be no wider than the bar and they should have a lip that is no more than 1 8 inch higher than the support although lips up to are allowed Bolts used as bar supports are allowed if the comply with all other provisions of this section and if bars can be made displaceable form both directions Bars held in place by Velcro magnets etc are not allowed The inside of the uprights must be at least 32 inches tall and the upright must be 1 to 48 inches wide An inside height of 42 inches and a minimum width of 3 1 2 inches are recommended for visibility Widths less than 30 inches are recommended to facilitate handler movement on the course Table The top of the Pause Table is a 36 inch square plus or minus 2 inches with a non slip surface carpeting may be used The vertical edge of the top of the table top must be 3 or greater in

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height and it is recommended that the table edge be of a color in contrast to the running surface and ring gating He height of the table within 1 inch is 8 inches for dogs in the 8 inch and 12inch divisions 16 inches for dogs in the 16 inch and 20 inch divisions and 24 inches for dogs in the 24 inch division

Scaling wall The A Frame is constructed from two panels the top surface of which is constructed from wood or wood like substance The panels are 35 to 49 inches wide and their length is within 2 inches of 9 feet Panels shall be of a consistent width flat and straight and connected so as to eliminate gaps large enough to fit a dog's foot or toe The height of the A Frame is to be set within 1 inch of 5 foot 6 inches The top surface is painted and has a rough non slip surface alternating layers of sand and flat latex paint are recommended Slats are placed across the width of the panels to provide footing They are 3 8 to thick and to 1 1 2 wide and they extend to within of the panel sides Slat edges shall be rounded or beveled so as not to be sharp and radius is recommended The centers of the slats are placed at 12 inch intervals with a 2 inch tolerance and no slat is within 4 inches of the top of a contact zone Contact zones are painted on the lower 42 inches of both panels with a tolerance The color of the zones must contrast with the rest of the panel but may not be white black or brown Bright yellow contact zones are recommended

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Master Test The three Masters Level tests provide a well formulated evaluation of a dog's character intelligence and desire to work As such it not only provides a test of a dog's suitability for serving mankind police work narcotics detection homeland defense etc but also offers an extremely valuable tool for the breeder who wishes to maintain these characteristics in all working breeds

Dogs at this level are expected to be mentally and physically sound before being allowed to participate Before any portion of this stake begins one judge must give each dog a simple temperament test If the dog shows any temperament problem at any time during the test it will be excused In order to obtain a Master Working Dog title a dog must pass all three levels tracking obedience protection in a single day

PERFORMANCE REGULATIONS Table of Contents Trial Regulations Preface General Regulations BH International Companion Dog Degree WDM I Tracking Obedience Protection WDM II Tracking Obedience Protection WDM III Tracking Obedience Protection

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Regulations for Working Dog Sport Master Levels General Rules Regulations Part A Title levels International Companion Dog Examination BH Working Dog Sport Master I WDM I Working Dog Sport Master II WDM II Working Dog Sport Master III WDM III

Part B Requirements The minimum age requirements for entry into the various levels are BH 15 months WDM I 18 months WDM II 19 months WDM III 20 months

Evidence of prior attainment of the BH title must be verified before entry into any WDM level is allowed A judge is able to judge a maximum of 30 segments per day where BH International Companion Dog counts as 2 segments and all Master levels count as 3 segments If the entries exceed these limits the trial must be extended to an additional day or another judge must be secured to officiate Dogs may only be exhibited in one Master Level per trial If a dog has been awarded a Master Level a 4 week waiting period must elapse before the dog can be exhibited for the next higher level Once a dog has earned a Master Level III title it will be up to the discretion of the handler when to trial the dog again as long as it is not repeated on the same trial day A handler may not participate in 2 trials on the same day If an event lasts two or more days a dog may be awarded a BH on one day and compete for the Master level I title on one of the succeeding days of the trial

Only dogs that appear healthy can be exhibited in a trial Dogs must pass a test of impartiality and sureness before being permitted to participate in a trial A dog demonstrating faulty temperament during the trial will be dismissed even if the initial impartiality test was positive Part C Point Score Rating The highest maximum score in each phase shall be 100 points with the highest point total in all 3 phases is 300 points A degree will be awarded if a dog achieves at least 70 points in all 3 of the following phases Phase A Tracking Phase B Obedience Phase C Protection Note A minimum of 80 points in phase C is also needed in order to enter for the next highest Master level The following ratings will be awarded with the corresponding point totals Unsatisfactory 0 109 points

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Faulty 110 209 points Satisfactory 210 239 points Good 240 269 points Very Good 270 285 points Excellent 286 300 points

Should there be awards presented and in the case of a tie the dog with the highest point score in phase C of the trial should receive the award Should there still be a tie the point total in phase B shall prevail Awards for working character in phase C including drives self confidence and resilience are P Pronounced S Satisfactory I Insufficient

Part D Conduct of the Participants At the beginning of each trial after being summoned by name each handler and dog will report to the judge stating the handler's full name as well as the dog's full registered name The dog must be

leashed no leash required in Master Level III and is to sit in the basic position The score book is to be presented to the trial secretary prior to the beginning of the trial

All trial participants must follow the instructions of the judge trial secretary trial committee without any disagreement The handler must exhibit the dog in a sportsman like manner at all times Poor sportsmanship actions may lead to misconduct proceedings The final decision rests with the judge and trial secretary and cannot be challenged Protest is not permitted

The dog must be exhibited with a metal choke collar in the neutral position dead ring at all times during the trial Flat buckle collars are also permitted in the Junior Senior and Open levels The handler may praise the dog only once after each exercise Body help from the handler is not permitted and will be penalized by point deduction if used In the event the handler possesses a handicap that hinders movement of the dog on the left side the handler may exhibit the dog on the right side with no point deductions Part E Duties of the Trial Secretary Prior to the start of the trial the Trial Secretary will provide the judge with properly filled out judge's books score sheets The Trial Secretary will be responsible for obtaining acceptable tracking fields and ensure that experienced track layers are available A field that is large enough for both obedience and protection phases must be obtained well in advance of the trial date A group of 4 people must be available during the obedience portion of the trial Either 1 or 2 experienced helpers must be secured for the protection phase The Trial Secretary must be available to the judge at all times and must make sure the trial runs as smoothly as possible

Part F Entry requirements
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In the United States of America under AKC regulations all dogs competing in the Master Levels must show proof of having obtained a BH International Companion Dog degree All dogs must be identified by a tattoo or Micro Chipped American Kennel Club Field Champion Amateur Field Champion Master Agility Champion Master Hunter National Field and or National Amateur Field Champion Obedience Trial Champion or Herding Champion titled dogs do not have to show proof of previously obtaining a BH International Companion Dog degree and are eligible to enter Master events

Part G Trial Participants A handler must be prepared to show his dog in all 3 phases of the trial If the dog fails 1 or more portions of the trial he must continue on to finish the entire trial UNLESS the dog is dismissed for faulty temperament the judge dismisses the dog handler for unsportsmanlike conduct or the dog is injured If the dog becomes injured or his performance is substantially diminished during the trial the judge has the right to terminate the dog's trial performance even if the handler wishes to continue The participating dog will be dismissed if he or she attacks any person other than the helpers or another dog during the performance of its exercises

If the dog is withdrawn from the trial due to illness after having completed at least one phase of the trial the handler must obtain a verification of the dog's illness from a licensed veterinarian The trial paperwork will be marked dog withdrawn due to illness Part H Temperament Test Before starting the trial for BH International Companion Dog or the Master Levels each dog must pass a temperament test One of the most important portions of the temperament test is the examination and inspection of the tattoo number or microchip verification

The temperament evaluation will continue throughout the entire trial Dogs that have passed the temperament test prior to the start of the trial may still be dismissed during the trial by the judge if the dog shows faulty temperament at any time throughout the trial If a dog is dismissed from the trial for faulty temperament the entry in the score book will read Failed Temperament Test

Part I Further Procedural Regulations Tracking The dog must complete the Master Level track within a maximum of 20 minutes from the start time A tracking harness or bellyband may be used Obedience Voice commands must be given clearly and audibly The handler may choose which language to use No practice jumps are allowed

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No food reward is allowed No placing the dumbbell in the dog's mouth is allowed No toys or playthings are allowed The basic position may be taken once at the start of the exercise The handler may praise his dog after the completion of each exercise once the dog is in the basic position A noticeable interval about 3 sec must elapse before the start of the next exercise

Handler help or body language will not be permitted and will result in a point deduction if used If a handler performs an obedience exercise out of order the judge is required to interrupt the incorrect exercise and instruct the handler to proceed to the correct exercise

Protection phase Only a leather covered padded soft stick is to be used

The officiating judge must ensure that a sufficient number of blinds are available on the trial grounds These blinds may be either natural or man made The blinds will be placed at least 2 meters away from natural or man made boundaries BH International Companion Dog General provisions All breeds and sizes of dogs are eligible to enter the BH International Companion Dog test The minimum age requirement is 15 months No point total is given but the judge will announce either Pass or Fail The test is passed when 70 of the total points available 60 points in Part A are earned and the trial judge considers the exercises in Part B to be sufficient

There is no waiting period requirement for the test to be repeated The title BH is not a training title but is a requirement to proceed to a more advanced level of the Master Level Work

Part I Formal obedience Total points 60 Each individual exercise starts and finishes in the basic position handler standing still and the dogs sitting to the left of the handler The dog is to sit straight in the basic position with its right shoulder blade even with the handler's knee The handler is not to stand at ease The ending basic position for one exercise may serve as the initial basic position for the next exercise Point deductions will be made for handler help No toys or training aids may be used If the handler has a handicap that prevents the proper execution of an exercise this must be made known to the judge prior to the start of the trial If a handler handicap prevents the dog from heeling on the left side of the handler the dog will be permitted to heel to the right side of the handler

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The judge indicates when to begin an exercise Everything else e g turns stops change of pace etc is to be carried out without any indication from the judge Nonetheless the handler may ask the judge to give these indications The dog may be praised after the completion of each exercise The handler may then take a new basic position A clear interval about 3 seconds should elapse between the praise and the start of a new exercise Between exercises the dog must stay at heel Collar and leash For reasons of safety the handler must carry a leash at all times The dog must also always wear a choke chain on dead ring setting 1 On lead heeling 15 point's command heel The exercise begins with the dog in the basic position The dog is to be on leash and wearing either a smooth collar or a harness The dog is to heel happily when the heel command is given and the collar is to be on the dead ring The handler and dog go 40 50 paces in one direction and then return without stopping The dog should heel with its shoulder blade close to the handler's knee and should stay to the left of the handler without forging lagging or moving too far sideways from the handler The straight line portion of the exercise is to be carried out in normal slow and fast pace In a normal pace at least one right turn one left turn and one left about turn are to be carried out The command heel may be used only when beginning or when changing speed When the handler stops the dog is to sit quickly without further handler help The handler is not allowed to change position e g move closer to the dog if it sits too far to the side The lead should be held in the left hand of the handler and should not be taut At the judge's indication the handler should heel his dog through a group of at least four people who are slowly mingling The handler is to stop at least once in the group Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are all faulty

2 Off lead heeling 15 points command heel At the judge's indication the dog is taken off lead The lead may be hung over the shoulder or put into a pocket and the handler then heels his dog back into the group where he should stop at least once After leaving the group the handler first assumes the basic position and then begins the off lead heeling using the same pattern that was followed in the on lead heeling except for entering the group again During the off lead heeling but not while the handler is in the group two gunshots are to be fired from a distance of about 15 paces A blank .22 or .32 caliber starter type pistol that is incapable of firing live rounds shall be used The dog should show no reaction to the gunfire If the dog is gun shy it fails the BH and is to be excluded from the remainder of the test If the dog becomes aggressive as a result of the gunfire the reaction is to be faulted but the dog may continue if it remains under control

3 Walking sit 10 points From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After a minimum of 10 steps the handler without breaking stride gives the command sit whereupon the dog is to immediately sit The handler continues walking straight ahead for 30 paces and then turns to face the dog At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position to the right of the dog The dog is to sit quietly until the handler returns If the dogs downs or stands 5 points are to be deducted 4 Walking down with recall 10 points From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After at least 10 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command down whereupon the dog is to immediately down The handler is to continue ahead 30 steps without further handler help or

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looking back at the dog and then turn and face the dog At the judge's signal the handler is to recall the dog The dog is to come rapidly and happily and to sit in front of the handler The handler then gives the command heel and the dog is to come to heel in the basic position If the dog sits or stands but comes properly when recalled 5 points are to be deducted

5 Down under distraction 10 points Before a second dog begins the on field obedience the handler heels his dog to the side of the field and from the basic position gives the command down The dog is to down immediately and the handler walks about 30 paces away without leaving the lead or any other article near the dog The handler stands in full view of the dog with his back turned The dog is to lie quietly without any further handler help until the other dog has completed exercises 1 4 The handler then returns to the right side of the dog and gives a sit command whereupon the dog is to sit in the basic position Part II Practical exercises The second part of the BH International Companion Dog degree serves to test the dog's social behavior as well as the dog's self confidence in its environment The evaluation is to proceed with everyday situations For this reason the testing is not to be on or adjacent to the formal obedience field These should generally be in a populated area during a time when there is substantial activity The judge together with the Trial Secretary shall determine where and how the exercises are to be carried out on streets paths or open areas The rules of the municipality or other laws are not to be interfered with The evaluation of the dog in Part B is not to proceed with undue haste The exercises should not be too superficial The dogs should proceed through the exercises individually and should be evaluated individually There is no score but the judge is to decide if the dog's behavior is acceptable The dogs must pass both parts of the BH in a single trial in order to receive a BH International Companion Dog title 1 Encounter with a group of people At the judge's indication the handler walks with his dog on lead down a sidewalk or path At the judge's indication the street may be crossed The judge follows at an appropriate distance The dog should be to the left of the handler on a loose lead with its shoulder near to the handler's knee and should willingly follow The dog should pay no attention to the pedestrian or automobile traffic While walking a pedestrian associated with the trial shall cut across their path The dog should remain neutral i e its behavior should be unaffected The dog and handler should pass through a group of at least 6 people in which one person speaks with the handler and greets him with a handshake At the handler's command the dog should sit or down and remain quiet during the conversation 2 Encounter with a bicycle rider A short time later a bicycle rider associated with the trial shall pass close to them coming from behind This should happen in such a way that the dog is between the handler and the bicycle rider As the bicycle passes the bicycle bell should be rung The bicycle rider turns around and passes the dog from the opposite direction The dog's behavior should remain unaffected 3 Encounter with automobiles The handler with his dog on lead passes several automobiles During this one car is started and the door of a second car is slammed A car then stops and the driver lowers the window and asks for directions At the handler's indication the dog is to sit or down The dog is to remain calm and neutral towards the noises

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4 Encounter with joggers or in line skaters The handler with his dog on lead walks his dog down a quiet path and at least two joggers pass him from behind without changing their speed Then the joggers pass the dog and handler from the front The dog needn't heel exactly and the handler may sit or down the dog during the encounter Instead of joggers in line skaters may be used 5 Encounter with other dogs When passing another dog both from behind as well as from the front the dog must remain neutral The handler may give multiple heel commands or sit or down the dog during the encounter 6 Behavior of a dog when tied up and left alone behavior towards other animals At the judge's indication the handler walks with his dog on lead down a path with slight traffic After a short distance the handler stops and ties the end of the lead to a fence post etc The handler then departs staying out of sight of the dog while he enters a shop or entrance to a house The dog may stand sit or lie down During the absence of the handler a passer by associated with the trial with a dog walks by at a distance of about five paces from the dog being tested During the absence of the handler the dog is to remain calm and should allow the second dog to pass by an aggressive passer by dog should not be used without showing signs of aggression straining against the lead continuous barking etc At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and puts it on lead General remarks At the judge's discretion each dog may in turn complete all exercises or all dogs may complete one exercise before proceeding to the next one

Obedience Heeling Pattern for B The pace count indicates the minimum required paces in the pattern The heeling pattern must be done both on leash and off leash

T Normal pace Slow pace 10 paces oooooo Fast pace o B Basic position o L Left turn 10 paces o R Right turn o T About turn T 10 paces H Halt or stop

H R R L B

Group 30
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The 1 m Jump The top 8in must be of flexible material

The Scaling Wall

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32 Master Level I Part A Tracking Maximum point total 100 Command Find it Performance on the track 80 points 2 articles 10 10 20 points

The handler is to lay a track of 350 400 paces with two articles on it After the track has aged for 20 minutes the dog is to track at the end of a 33 ft long lead The track is to have two 90 turns The judge will determine the shape of the track in accord with the nature of the tracking field The start of the track is to be marked with a flag or stake that is to be to the left of the start After stamping out a scent pad the handler is to walk in the direction indicated by the judge and to place the first article approximately in the middle of the first or second leg without breaking stride The handler will decide on which leg the article is to be placed The second article will be placed at the end of the track Following completion of the track the handler will continue for several paces and will then leave the track to the side The handler may track with his dog at the end of a 33 ft lead or33 ft behind the dog off lead Scoring shall not depend on which way the handler works the dog

Sample Masters Level 1 Tracks

Procedures Before beginning to lay the track the handler must show the judge the articles to be used Articles may be made of leather synthetic cloth or wood and may not exceed the size of a wallet Toys may not be used and the articles should not differ substantially in color from the field The dog is not to see the track being laid The track is not to be altered when the article is laid and the handler is not to stop The article is to be placed on the track not next to it The handler prepares his dog for tracking and when called he reports to the judge The dog is to sit in the basic position and the handler is to tell the judge if the dog will indicate or retrieve the articles Doing both is faulty At the indication from the judge the handler takes the dog slowly and quietly to the start pad Before the track and during the entire track there is to be

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33 no force used At the start pad the dog is to take a sufficient amount of time to pick up scent Everything must be avoided that might cause the dog to start tracking in an unruly manner The dog should quietly pick up scent with a deep nose After the dog begins tracking the handler is to remain still until the prescribed 33 ft lead runs through his hands The handler should follow the dog at a distance of 33ft even if the dog is off lead As soon as the dog has found the article it should indicate or pick it up convincingly without any help from the handler If the dog picks up the article it may sit stand or bring it to the handler Continuing forward or picking up the article and downing are faulty Indicating may be done while downing sitting or standing The handler is to drop the lead and go immediately to the dog The article is to be held high to show that the dog has found it Then the handler and the dog are to resume tracking Following completion of the track the handler is to show the judge all of the articles The tracking lead is allowed to hang loose as long as the handler keeps a hold of it

Evaluation For faulty starts quartering circling at the corners continuous handler praise faulty picking up or indicating or dropping the article up to 4 points will be deducted For restarts pronounced quartering tracking primarily with a high nose rambunctious tracking urinating hunting and similar behavior up to 8 points will be deducted For each article that is picked up or indicated falsely up to 4 points will be deducted For each article that is not found 10 points will be deducted For indicating or picking up an article that was not deposited by the tracklayer 4 points will be deducted The start and 1 st leg together are worth 27 points the 1 st turn and 2 nd leg together are worth 27 points and the 2 nd turn together with the 3 rd leg are together are worth 26 points

Part B Obedience Maximum point total 100 points Each exercise will begin and end with the dog in the basic position The judge will indicate when each exercise is to begin All further actions e g turns stops change of pace etc will be done without any indication from the judge The handler may nonetheless ask the judge questions about procedure

1 On lead heeling 15 points command heel The exercise begins with the dog in the basic position The dog is to be on leash and wearing either a smooth collar or a harness The dog is to heel happily when the heel command is given The handler and dog go 40 50 paces in one direction and then return without stopping The dog should heel with its shoulder blade close to the handler's knee and should stay to the left of the handler without forging lagging or moving too far to the side of the handler The straight line portion of the exercise is to be carried out in normal slow and fast pace In a normal pace at least one right turn one left turn and one left about turn are to be carried out The command heel may be used only when beginning or when changing speed When the handler stops the dog is to sit quickly without further handler help The handler is not allowed to change position e g move closer to the dog if it sits too far to the side The lead should be held in the left hand of the handler and should not be taut At the judge's indication the handler should heel his dog through a group of at least four people who are slowly mingling The handler is to stop at least once in the group The handler is to then heel his dog out of the group and stop with the dog in the basic position

Evaluation 33
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34 Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are considered to be faults 2 Off lead heeling 20 points command heel At the judge's indication the dog is taken off lead The lead may be hung over the shoulder or put into a pocket and the handler then heels his dog back into the group where he should stop at least once After leaving the group the handler first assumes the basic position and then begins the off lead heeling using the same pattern that was followed in the on lead heeling except for entering the group again During the off lead heeling but not while the handler is in the group two gunshots are to be fired from a starter type pistol of .22 or .32 caliber using blank ammunition from a distance of about 15 paces Pistols must be of type that will not fire live rounds The dog should show no reaction to the gunfire Evaluation Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are all faulty If the dog is gun shy it fails the obedience and is to be excluded from the remainder of the test If the dog becomes aggressive as a result of the gunfire the reaction is to be faulted but the dog may continue if it remains under control 3 Walking sit 10 points commands heel sit From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After a minimum of 10 15 steps the handler without breaking stride gives the command sit whereupon the dog is to immediately sit The handler continues walking straight ahead for 30 paces and then turns to face the dog At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position to the right of the dog The dog is to sit quietly until the handler returns Evaluation If the dog downs or stands after the sit command is given 5 points are to be deducted

4 Walking down with recall 10 points commands heel down come heel From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command down whereupon the dog is to immediately down The handler is to continue ahead 30 steps without further handler help or looking back at the dog and then turn and face the dog At the judge's signal the handler is to recall the dog The dog is to come rapidly and happily and to sit in front of the handler The handler then gives the command heel and the dog is to come to heel in the basic position

Evaluation If the dog sits or stands after the command down is given but comes properly when recalled 5 points are to be deducted 5 Retrieve on the flat 10 points commands bring out heel From the basic position following a single command bring the dog is to quickly go to a dumbbell 1.43 lbs that has been thrown at least 10 paces in front of the handler immediately pick it up and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command Heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

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35 Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted 2 Retrieve over 39 inch hurdle 15 points commands over bring out heel The handler stands at an appropriate distance from the jump so that the dog can jump over the jump freely The handler is to throw a dumbbell 1.43 lbs far enough over the jump that the dog can freely jump over the jump when returning From the basic position following a single command over the dog is to quickly go over the jump without touching it A bring command is to be given while the dog is in the air and the dog is to immediately pick it up and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

Procedure If the dumbbell comes to rest far to one side of the jump the handler may request or the judge may suggest that the dumbbell be re thrown While the handler picks up the judge and rethrows the dog is to remain in the sit position

Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted If the dog completes only two of the three basic elements jump retrieve and return a maximum score of 10 points is possible If the dogs touches the jump slightly while going over and maximum of good may be given for each jump If the dog hits the jumps strongly a maximum rating of satisfactory is given for the jump

7 Send away 10 points commands heel go sit The judge indicates where the exercise is to begin At the judge's indication the Handler heels his dog off leash 10 15 paces in the indicated direction and gives the command Go The dog is to run quickly at least 30 paces in the same direction After giving the command the handler is to stop When giving the command the handler may raise an arm After the dog has gone the required distance but is still at least 8 paces from the end of the field the handler is to give a down command If the judges so indicates the handler must immediately give a down command The dog must immediate go down The handler then goes to his dog and stands to the right of the dog After a short pause the handler is to give a sit command and the dog is to come into the basic position

Evaluation Raising an arm repeatedly is faulty as is deviating from a straight line going down slowly after the down command is given or anticipating the down command or anticipating the sit command when the handler returns to the dog

8 Down under distraction 10 points commands down sit Before a second dog begins the on field obedience the handler heels his dog to the side of the field and from the basic position gives the command down The dog is to down immediately and the handler walks about 30 paces away without leaving the lead or any other article near the dog The handler stands in full view of the dog with his back turned The dog is to lie quietly without any further handler help until the other dog has completed exercises 1 7 The handler then returns to the right side of the dog and gives a sit command whereupon the dog is to sit in the basic position

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36 Procedure Males and bitches are to be put into the down positions in different spots Evaluation If the dog moves more than 10 ft before the other dog has completed the retrieve on the flat exercise no points will be given for this exercise Otherwise a partial score may be given If the dog comes to the handler while the handler returns to the dog the exercise is to e rated satisfactory

Part C Protection work Maximum point total 100 points 1 Blind search 5 points command search The dog is to begin in the basic position At the judge's indication the handler sends his dog to search two blinds on opposite sides of the field The handler is to stay in the middle of the field until told by the judge to approach the blind

Procedure The dog's name may be used in combination with the command Search2 Hold and bark 10 points As soon as it reaches the blind the dog should begin to bark without gripping the sleeve The dog should guard close and attentively and bark convincingly and self confidently until the end of the exercise At the judge's indication the handler goes to the blind puts the dog on lead and goes into the blind after the helper leaves it The helper is then to hide behind another blind that is about 70 80 paces away

Evaluation If the dog comes back to the handler as he approaches the blind a partial score is to be given If the dog leaves the helper before the judge tells the handler to pick up the dog a partial score is to be given

3 Heeling to the blind for the attack on handler 5 points command heel At the judge's indication the handler leaves the blind stops with his dog in the basic position and takes the leash off The leash is to be hung around the handler's torso or put into a pocket At the judge's indication the handler is to heel his dog towards the blind behind which the helper is hiding The dog is to heel properly If the dog does not heel correctly and goes to the blind prematurely the handler may call him back with a command In this case the handler is to stop If the dog returns a second try at the off leash heeling may follow If the dog is again uncontrollable the protection work is to be ended due to lack of control A partial score for this exercise can be given only if the dog heels at least halfway to the blind

4 Attack on handler 40 points commands out sit At the judge's indication the helper comes out of the blind and attacks the dog and handler without shouting The dog must immediately energetically and self confidently defend against the attack by gripping the sleeve The grip is to be full and firm After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to correctly utilize the padded stick The handler is allowed to encourage the dog verbally

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37 At the judge's indication the helper stops the attack and becomes passive The dog is to release the sleeve after a single out command and to guard the helper attentively When the judge indicates the handler approaches the dog and gives a sit command to put the dog into the basic position He puts the dog on leash and goes into a blind as indicated by the judge 5 Courage test 40 points commands go out sit heel The judge tells the to leave the blind and heel his dog to a point at the middle of that end of the field as indicated by the judge The handler is to take the dog off leash and hold the dog on the collar The handler may not stimulate the dog who must sit quietly next to the judge The dog is to remain in this position until he is given a Go command to defend against an attack by the helper At the judge's indication the helper leaves the blind at the far end of the field 70 80 paces from the handler in which he is hiding and walks across the field The handler is to tell him to stand still The helper refuses and turns towards the handler to attack him The judge then immediately gives the handler the indication to send his dog to defend against the attack As soon as the judge indicates the handler is to send his dog with the command Search and stand still The dog is to quickly and energetically go to the helper and defend against the attack with a firm full self confident and quiet grip on the sleeve After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to attempt to intimidate the dog and stand still at the judge's signal When this happens the dogs is to release the grip after a single out command is given by the handler and guard the helper intensely If the dog grips but cannot hold the grip but without pause re grips the exercise is to be rated satisfactory At the judge's indication the handler approaches the dog at a normal pace and with a sit command brings his dog into the basic position Even if the dog is already sitting the sit command may be given to re enforce the sit Similarly if the dog downs after outing the handler may give a down command to re enforce the down The handler tells the helper to take 3 paces backwards and lift his arms and then puts his dog into a down position The handler then disarms the helper After searching the helper the handler returns to his dog puts him into a sit position and puts him on lead The helper then heels his dog to the right of the helper and puts him into the basic position between the helper and handler After a side transport to the judge the handler reports completion of the exercise The helper leaves the field and the judge gives a critique and score during which time the dog may down

Evaluation If the dog is unruly in the basic position prior to the courage test up to 3 points will be deducted Evaluation of the out If the dog fails to release at any time during the protection phase the exercise is terminated and no points will be awarded for the exercise

Evaluation of character in phase C If the dog leaves the helper before the judge signals the handler to approach the dog phase C is to be ended If dog is out of control and thus excluded from the remainder of the trial it will receive no score Dogs that are not allowed to continue in the trial because of insufficient drives self confidence or tolerance of stress refusal to grip the sleeve during appropriate exercises receive no score in phase C

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38 Master Level II Part A Tracking Maximum point total 100 Command Find it Performance on the track 80 points 2 articles 10 10 20 points

A tracklayer is to lay a track of 600 paces with two articles on it After the track has aged for 30 minutes the dog is to track at the end of a 33 ft long lead The track is to have two 90 turns The judge will determine the shape of the track in accord with the nature of the tracking field The start of the track is to be marked with a flag or stake that is to be to the left of the start After stamping out a scent pad the tracklayer is to walk in the direction indicated by the judge and to place the first article approximately in the middle of the second leg without breaking stride The second article will be placed at the end of the track Following completion of the track the tracklayer will continue for several paces and will then leave the track to the side The handler may track with his dog at the end of a 33 ft lead or 33 ft behind the dog off lead Scoring shall not depend on which way the handler works the dog

Sample Masters Level 2 Tracks

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39 The handler prepares his dog for tracking and when called he reports to the judge The dog is to sit in the basic position and the handler is to tell the judge if the dog will indicate or retrieve the articles Doing both is faulty At the indication from the judge the handler takes the dog slowly and quietly to the start pad Before the track and during the entire track there is to be no force used At the start pad the dog is to take a sufficient amount of time to pick up scent Everything must be avoided that might cause the dog to start tracking in an unruly manner The dog should quietly pick up scent with a deep nose After the dog begins tracking the handler is to remain still until the prescribed 33 ft lead runs through his hands The handler should follow the dog at a distance of 33 ft even if the dog is off lead As soon as the dog has found the article it should indicate or pick it up convincingly without any help from the handler If the dog picks up the article it may sit stand or bring it to the handler Continuing forward or picking up the article and downing are faulty Indicating may be done while downing sitting or standing The handler is to drop the lead and go immediately to the dog The article is to be held high to show that the dog has found it Then the handler and the dog are to resume tracking Following completion of the track the handler is to show the judge all of the articles The tracking lead is allowed to hang loose as long as the handler keeps a hold of it

1 On lead heeling 10 points command heel The exercise begins with the dog in the basic position The dog is to be on leash and wearing either a smooth collar or a harness The dog is to heel happily when the heel command is given and the collar is to be on the dead ring The handler and dog go 40 50 paces in one direction and then return without stopping The dog should heel with its shoulder blade close to the handler's knee and should stay to the left of the handler without forging lagging or moving too far to the side of the handler The straight line portion of the exercise is to be carried out in normal slow and fast pace In a normal pace at least one right turn one left turn and one left about turn are to be carried out The command heel may be used only when beginning or when changing speed When the handler stops the dog is to sit quickly without further handler help The handler is not allowed to change position e g move closer to the dog if it sits too far to the side The lead should be held in the left hand of the handler and should not be taut At the judge's indication the handler should heel his dog through a group of at least four people who are slowly mingling The handler is to stop at least

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40 once in the group The handler is to then heel his dog out of the group and stop with the dog in the basic position Evaluation Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are all faulty 2 Off lead heeling 15 points command heel At the judge's indication the dog is taken off lead The lead may be hung over the shoulder or put into a pocket and the handler then heels his dog back into the group where he should stop at least once After leaving the group the handler first assumes the basic position and then begins the off lead heeling using the same pattern that was followed in the on lead heeling except for entering the group again During the off lead heeling but not while the handler is in the group two gunshots are to be fired from a starter type pistol of .22 or .32 caliber using blank ammunition from a distance of about 15 paces Pistols must be of type that will not fire live rounds The dog should show no reaction to the gunfire Evaluation Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are all faulty If the dog is gun shy it fails the obedience and is to be excluded from the remainder of the test If the dog becomes aggressive as a result of the gunfire the reaction is to be faulted but the dog may continue if it remains under control 3 Walking sit 5 points commands heel sit From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After a minimum of 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command sit whereupon the dog is to immediately sit The handler continues walking straight ahead for 30 paces and then turns to face the dog At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position to the right of the dog The dog is to sit quietly until the handler returns Evaluation If the dog downs or stands after the sit command is given 5 points are to be deducted

4 Walking down with recall 10 points commands heel down come heel From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command down whereupon the dog is to immediately down The handler is to continue ahead 30 paces without further handler help or looking back at the dog and then turn and face the dog At the judge's signal the handler is to recall the dog The dog is to come rapidly and happily and to sit in front of the handler The handler then gives the command heel and the dog is to come to heel in the basic position

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41 dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted 6 Retrieve over the 39 inch hurdle 15 points commands over bring out heel The handler stands at an appropriate distance from the jump so that the dog can jump over the jump freely The handler is to throw a dumbbell 1.43 lbs far enough over the jump that the dog can freely go over the jump when returning From the basic position following a single command over the dog is to quickly go over the jump without touching it A bring command is to be given while the dog is in the air and the dog is to immediately pick up the dumbbell and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position Procedure If the dumbbell comes to rest far to one side of the jump the handler may request or the judge may suggest that the dumbbell be re thrown While the handler picks up the dumbbell and re throws the dog is to remain in the sit position

Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted If the dog completes only two of the three basic elements jump retrieve return jump a maximum score of 10 points is possible If the dogs touches the jump slightly while going over and maximum of good may be given for each jump If the dog hits the jumps strongly a maximum rating of satisfactory is given for the jump

7 Retrieve over a 6 ft scaling wall 15 points commands over bring out heel The handler stands at an appropriate distance from the scaling wall so that the dog can climb over the scaling wall freely The handler is to throw a dumbbell 1.43 lb far enough over the scaling wall that the dog can freely return over the scaling wall From the basic position following a single command hop the dog is to quickly go over the scaling wall A bring command is to be given while the dog is going over the scaling wall and the dog is to immediately pick up the dumbbell and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

Procedure If the dumbbell comes to rest far to one side of the jump the handler may request or the judge may suggest that the dumbbell be re thrown While the handler picks up the dumbbell and re throws the dog is to remain in the sit position

Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted If the dog completes only two of the three basic elements going over the scaling wall retrieve returning over the scaling wall a maximum score of 10 points is possible

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42 8 Send away 10 points commands heel go sit The judge indicates where the exercise is to begin At the judge's indication the Handler heels his dog off leash 10 15 paces in the indicated direction and give the command Go The dog is to run quickly at least 30 paces in the same direction After giving the command the handler is to stop When giving the command the handler may raise an arm After the dog has gone the required distance but is still at least 8 paces from the end of the field the handler is to give a down command If the judges so indicates the handler must immediately give a down command The dog must immediate go down The handler then goes to his dog and stands to the right of the dog After a short pause the handler is to give a sit command and the dog is to come into the basic position

9 Down under distraction 10 points commands down sit Before a second dog begins the on field obedience the handler heels his dog to the side of the field and from the basic position gives the command down The dog is to down immediately and the handler walks about 30 paces away without leaving the lead or any other article near the dog The handler stands in full view of the dog with his back turned The dog is to lie quietly without any further handler help until the other dog has completed exercises 1 7 The handler then returns to the right side of the dog and gives a sit command where upon the dog is to sit in the basic position

Procedure Males and bitches are to be put into the down position in different spots Evaluation If the dog moves more than 10 ft before the other dog has completed the retrieve on the flat exercise no points will be given for this exercise Otherwise a partial score may be given If the dog comes to the handler while the handler returns to the dog the exercise is to be rated satisfactory

Part C Protection work Maximum point total 100 points 1 Blind search 5 points command search The dog is to begin in the basic position At the judge's indication the handler sends his dog to search six blinds on opposite sides of the field The handler is to stay in the middle of the field until told by the judge to approach the blind

Procedure The dog's name may be used in combination with the command Search2 Hold and bark 10 points command heel down As soon as it reaches the blind the dog should begin to bark without gripping the sleeve The dog should guard close and attentively and bark convincingly and self confidently until the end of the exercise At the judge's indication the handler goes to the blind and calls the dog to heel The handler tells the helper to come out of the blind and stand about 10 paces from the blind with his hands raised The dog is placed in a down position about 7 paces from the helper

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43 the handler goes to the helper to search him for a weapon and then goes into the blind At this point the exercise is finished Evaluation If the dog does not come to heel after three commands the handler is to go to the blind and heel the dog out This portion of the exercise is then to be rated faulty 3 Escape 10 points command heel The handler is to be in the blind and the dog is to watch the helper attentively while downing quietly At the judge's indication the helper attempts to escape The dog is to quickly go to the helper and take a firm and energetic grip on the sleeve to hinder the escape At the judge's indication the helper is to stop The dog must then release the grip either independently or after a single command from the handler The dog is then to guard the helper

Evaluation If the dog does not grip the sleeve before the helper has run 60 ft the protection phase is to be ended 4 Defense 20 points command out At the judge's indication the helper re attacks the dog The dog is to immediately and energetically take a full grip on the sleeve to hinder the attack After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to correctly utilize the padded stick The handler is allowed to encourage the dog verbally At the judge's indication the helper stops the attack and becomes passive The dog is to release the sleeve after a single out command and to guard the helper attentively When the judge indicates the handler approaches the dog and gives a sit command to put the dog into the basic position 5 Front transport 5 points command heel The handler tells the helper to step back turn around and start walking The handler is then to heel his dog walking no more than five paces behind the helper At the judge's indication the helper is to make a 90 degree turn The dog is to watch the helper attentively without forging

6 Defense against aggression on handler 20 points commands out sit After about 50 paces of heeling and at the judge's indication the helper is to turn around and attack the dog and handler without shouting The dog must immediately energetically and selfconfidently defend against the attack by gripping the sleeve The grip is to be full and hard At the judge's indication the helper stops the attack and becomes passive The dog is to release the sleeve after a single out command and to guard the helper attentively When the judge indicates the handler approaches the dog and gives a sit command to put the dog into the basic position He puts the dog on leash and goes into a blind as indicated by the judge 7 Courage test and side transport 30 points commands heel go out sit heel The judge tells the to leave the blind and heel his dog to a point at the middle of that end of the field as indicated by the judge The handler is to take the dog off leash and hold the dog on the collar The handler may not stimulate the dog which must sit quietly next to the judge The dog is to remain in this position until he is given a Go command to defend against an attack by the helper At the judge's indication the helper leaves the blind at the far end of the field 70 80 paces from the handler in which he is hiding and walks across the field The handler is to tell him to

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44 stand still The helper refuses and turns towards the handler to attack him The judge then immediately gives the handler the indication to send his dog to defend against the attack As soon as the judge indicates the handler is to send his dog with the command Go and stand still The dog is to quickly and energetically go to the helper and defend against the attack with a firm full self confident and quiet grip on the sleeve After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to attempt to intimidate the dog but without stick hits and stand still at the judge's signal When this happens the dogs is to release the grip after a single out command is given by the handler and guard the helper intensely If the dog grips but cannot hold the grip but without pause re grips the exercise is to be rated satisfactory At the judge's indication the handler approaches the dog at a normal pace and with a sit command brings his dog into the basic position Even if the dog is already sitting the sit command may be given to re enforce the sit Similarly if the dog downs after outing the handler may give a down command to re enforce the down The handler tells the helper to take 3 paces backwards and lift his arms and then puts his dog into a down position The handler then disarms the helper After searching the helper the handler returns to his dog puts him into a sit position and puts him on lead The helper then heels his dog to the right of the helper and puts him into the basic position between the helper and handler After a side transport to the judge the handler reports completion of the exercise The helper leaves the field and the judge gives a critique and score during which time the dog may down

Evaluation of character in phase C If the dogs leaves the helper before the judge signals the handler to approach the dog phase C is to be ended If dogs are out of control and thus excluded from the remainder of the trial they will receive no score Dogs that are not allowed to continue in the trial because of insufficient drives self confidence or resilience refusal to grip the sleeve during appropriate exercises receive no score in phase C

MASTER LEVEL III Part A Tracking Maximum point total 100 Command Find it

Performance on the track 80 points 3 articles 7 7 6 20 points

A tracklayer is to lay a track of 800 paces with three articles on it After the track has aged for 60 minutes the dog is to track at the end of a 33 ft long lead The track is to have four 90 turns Either left right or a combination of both turns may be used in the laying of the tracks The judge will determine the shape of the track in accord with the nature of the tracking field The start of the track is to be marked with a flag or stake that is to

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45 be to the left of the start After stamping out a scent pad the tracklayer is to walk in the direction indicated by the judge and to place the first article after at least 100 paces on the 2 nd leg if necessary and the second article approximately in the middle of the second or third leg without breaking stride The third article will be placed at the end of the track Following completion of the track the tracklayer will continue for several paces and will then leave the track to the side The handler may track with his dog at the end of a 33 ft lead or 33 ft behind the dog off lead Scoring shall not depend on which way the handler works the dog

Sample Masters level 3 Tracks

Procedures Before beginning to lay the track the tracklayer must show the judge the articles to be used Articles may be made of leather synthetic cloth or wood and may not exceed the size of a wallet Toys may not be used and the articles should not differ substantially in color from the field The dog and handler are not to see the track being laid The track is not to be altered when the article is laid and the tracklayer is not to stop The article is to be placed on the track not next to it The handler prepares his dog for tracking and when called he reports to the judge The dog is to sit in the basic position and the handler is to tell the judge if the dog will indicate or retrieve the articles Doing both is faulty At the indication from the judge the handler takes the dog slowly and quietly to the start pad Before the track and during the entire track there is to be no force used At the start pad the dog is to take a sufficient amount of time to pick up scent Everything must be avoided that might cause the dog to start tracking in an unruly manner The dog should quietly pick up scent with a deep nose After the dog begins tracking the handler is to remain still until the prescribed 33 ft lead runs through his hands The handler should follow the dog at a distance of 33 ft even if the dog is off lead As soon as the dog has found the article it should indicate or pick it up convincingly without any help from the handler If the dog picks up the article it may sit stand or bring it to the handler Continuing forward or picking up the article and downing are faulty Indicating may be done while downing sitting or standing The handler is to drop the lead and go immediately to the dog The article is to be held

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46 high to show that the dog has found it Then the handler and the dog are to resume tracking Following completion of the track the handler is to show the judge all of the articles The tracking lead is allowed to hang loose as long as the handler keeps a hold of it Evaluation For faulty starts quartering circling at the corners continuous handler praise faulty picking up or indicating or dropping the article up to 4 points will be deducted For restarts pronounced quartering tracking primarily with a high nose rambunctious tracking urinating hunting and similar behavior up to 8 points will be deducted For each article that is picked up or indicated falsely up to 4 points will be deducted For each of the first two articles that is not found 7 points will be deducted If the last article is not found 6 points will be deducted For indicating or picking up an article that was not deposited by the tracklayer 4 points will be deducted The start and 1 st leg together are worth 16 points the 1 st turn and 2 nd leg together are worth 16 points and the 2 nd turn together with the 3 rd leg are together are worth 16 points the 3rd turn and 4th leg together are worth 16 points and the 4th turn together with the 5th leg are together are worth 16 points

Part B Obedience Maximum point total 100 points Each exercise will begin and end with the dog in the basic position The dog shall be off lead during the entire obedience The judge will indicate when each exercise is to begin All further actions e g turns stops change of pace etc will be done without any indication from the judge The handler may nonetheless ask the judge questions about procedure

1 Off lead heeling 10 points command heel The exercise begins with the dog in the basic position The dog is to be off leash and wearing either a smooth collar or a harness The dog is to heel happily when the heel command is given The handler and dog go 40 50 paces in one direction and then return without stopping The dog should heel with its shoulder blade close to the handler's knee and should stay to the left of the handler without forging lagging or moving too far to the side of the handler The straight line portion of the exercise is to be carried out in normal slow and fast pace In a normal pace at least one right turn one left turn and one left about turn are to be carried out The command heel may be used only when beginning or when changing speed When the handler stops the dog is to sit quickly without further handler help The handler is not allowed to change position e g move closer to the dog if it sits too far to the side At the judge's indication the handler should heel his dog through a group of at least four people who are slowly mingling The handler is to stop at least once in the group The handler is to then heel his dog out of the group and stop with the dog in the basic position During the off lead heeling but not while the handler is in the group two gunshots 6mm caliber are to be fired from a distance of about 15 paces The dog should show no reaction to the gunfire Evaluation Lagging forging heeling too far away from the handler as well as following too sloppily on the turns are all faulty If the dog is gun shy it fails the obedience and is to be excluded from the remainder of the test If the dog becomes aggressive as a result of the gunfire the reaction is to be faulted but the dog may continue if it remains under control

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47 2 Walking sit 5 points commands heel sit From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After a minimum of 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command sit where upon the dog is to immediately sit The handler continues walking straight ahead for 30 paces and then turns to face the dog At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position to the right of the dog The dog is to sit quietly until the handler returns Evaluation If the dogs downs or stands after the sit command is given 3 points are to be deducted

3 Running down with recall 10 points commands heel down come heel From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After 10 15 paces the handler gives the command heel and begins to run After another 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command down whereupon the dog is to immediately down The handler is to continue ahead 30 steps without further handler help or looking back at the dog and then turn and face the dog At the judge's signal the handler is to recall the dog The dog is to come rapidly and happily and to sit in front of the handler The handler then gives the command heel and the dog is to come to heel in the basic position

Evaluation If the dog sits or stands after the command down is given but comes properly when recalled 5 points are to be deducted 4 Walking stand 5 points commands heel stand From the basic position the handler begins heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After a minimum of 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command stand whereupon the dog is to immediately stand The handler continues walking straight ahead for 30 paces and then turns to face the dog At the judge's indication the handler returns to the dog and assumes the basic position to the right of the dog The dog is to sit quietly until the handler returns Evaluation If the dogs downs or sits after the stand command is given 3 points are to be deducted

5 Running down with recall 10 points commands heel down come heel From the basic position the handler begins to run heeling his dog off leash using the command heel After 10 15 paces the handler without breaking stride gives the command stand whereupon the dog is to immediately stand The handler is to continue ahead 30 steps without further handler help or looking back at the dog and then turn and face the dog At the judge's signal the handler is to recall the dog The dog is to come rapidly and happily and to sit in front of the handler The handler then gives the command heel and the dog is to come to heel in the basic position

Evaluation If the dog sits or stands after the command stand is given but comes properly when recalled 5 points are to be deducted 6 Retrieve on the flat 10 points commands bring out heel From the basic position following a single command bring the dog is to quickly go to a dumbbell 4.4 lbs that has been thrown at least 10 paces in front of the handler immediately

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48 pick it up and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted 7 Retrieve over a 39 inch hurdle 15 points commands over bring out heel The handler stands at an appropriate distance from the jump so that the dog can jump over the jump freely The handler is to throw a dumbbell 1.43 lbs far enough over the jump that the dog can freely jump over the jump when returning From the basic position following a single command over the dog is to quickly go over the jump without touching it A bring command is to be given while the dog is in the air and the dog is to immediately pick it up and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command Heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

Procedure If the dumbbell comes to rest far to one side of the jump The handler may request or the judge may suggest that the dumbbell be re thrown While the handler picks up the dumbbell and re throws the dog is to remain in the sit position

8 Retrieve over a 6 ft scaling wall 15 points commands over bring out heel The handler stands at an appropriate distance from the scaling wall so that the dog can climb over the scaling wall freely The handler is to throw a dumbbell 1.43 lbs far enough over the scaling wall that the dog can freely return over the scaling wall From the basic position following a single command over the dog is to quickly go over the scaling wall A bring command is to be given while the dog is going over the scaling wall and the dog is to immediately pick it up and quickly return to the handler sitting in front The dog shall firmly hold the dumbbell until the handler gives an out command Following the command Heel the dog shall immediately go to the basic position The handler is not to change his position until the dog has come to the basic position

Evaluation If the dog drops the dumbbell plays with it or chews up to 4 points will be deducted If the dog completes only two of the three basic elements going over the scaling wall retrieve

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49 returning over the wall a maximum score of 10 points is possible 9 Send away 10 points commands heel go sit The judge indicates where the exercise is to begin At the judge's indication the Handler heels his dog off leash 10 15 paces in the indicated direction and gives the command Go The dog is to run quickly at least 30 paces in the same direction After giving the command the handler is to stop When giving the command the handler may raise an arm After the dog has gone the required distance but is still at least 8 paces from the end of the field the handler is to give a down command If the judge so indicates the handler must immediately give a Down command The dog must immediate go down The handler then goes to his dog and stands to the right of the dog After a short pause the handler is to give a sit command and the dog is to come into the basic position

10 Down under distraction 10 points commands down sit Before a second dog begins the on field obedience the handler heels his dog to the side of the field and from the basic position gives the command down The dog is to down immediately and the handler walks about 30 paces away without leaving the lead or any other article near the dog The handler stands in full view of the dog with his back turned The dog is to lie quietly without any further handler help until the other dog has completed exercises 1 7 The handler then returns to the right side of the dog and gives a sit command where upon the dog is to sit in the basic position

Procedure Males and bitches are to be put into the down positions in different spots Evaluation If the dog moves more than 10 ft before the other dog has completed the retrieve on the flat exercise no points will be given for this exercise Otherwise a partial score may be given If the dog comes to the handler while the handler returns to the dog the exercise is to be rated satisfactory

Part C Protection work Maximum point total 100 points 1 Blind search 5 points command search The dog is to begin in the basic position At the judge's indication the handler sends his dog to search six blinds on opposite sides of the field The handler is to stay in the middle of the field until told by the judge to approach the blind

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50 heel The handler tells the helper to come out of the blind and stand about 10 paces from the blind with his hands raised The dog is placed in a down position about 7 paces from the helper the handler goes to the helper to search him for a weapon and then goes into the blind At this point the exercise is finished

Evaluation If the dog does not come to heel after three commands the handler is to go to the blind and heel the dog out This portion of the exercise is then to be rated faulty 3 Escape 10 points command heel The handler is to be in the blind and the dog is to watch the helper attentively while downing quietly At the judge's indication the helper attempts to escape The dog is to quickly go to the helper and take a firm and energetic grip on the sleeve to hinder the escape At the judge's indication the helper is to stop The dog must then release the grip either independently or after a single command from the handler The dog is then to guard the helper

6 Defense against aggression on handler 15 points commands out sit After about 50 paces of heeling and at the judge's indication the helper is to turn around and attack the dog and handler without shouting The dog must immediately energetically and selfconfidently defend against the attack by gripping the sleeve The grip is to be full and hard At the judge's indication the helper stops the attack and becomes passive The dog is to release the sleeve after a single out command and to guard the helper attentively At the judge's indication the handler approaches the dog at a normal pace and with a sit command brings his dog into the basic position Even if the dog is already sitting the sit command may be given to re enforce the sit Similarly if the dog downs after outing the handler may give a down command to re enforce the down The handler tells the helper to take 3 paces backwards and lift his arms and then puts his dog into a down position The handler then disarms the helper After searching the helper the handler returns to his dog puts him into a sit position and puts him on lead The handler then heels his dog to the right of the helper to the judge He then heels his dog and goes into a blind as indicated by the judge

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51 7 Courage test and guarding 20 points commands heel go out The judge tells the to leave the blind and heel his dog to a point at the middle of that end of the field as indicated by the judge The handler is to take the dog off leash and hold the dog on the collar The handler may not stimulate the dog who must sit quietly next to the judge The dog is to remain in this position until he is given a Search command to defend against an attack by the helper At the judge's indication the helper leaves the blind at the far end of the field 70 80 paces from the handler in which he is hiding and walks across the field The handler is to tell him to stand still The helper refuses and turns towards the handler to attack him The judge then immediately gives the handler the indication to send his dog to defend against the attack As soon as the judge indicates the handler is to send his dog with the command Search and stand still The dog is to quickly and energetically go to the helper and defend against the attack with a firm full self confident and quiet grip on the sleeve After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to attempt to intimidate the dog and stand still at the judge's signal When this happens the dog is to release the grip after a single out command is given by the handler and guard the helper intensely If the dog grips but cannot hold the grip but without pause re grips the exercise is to be rated satisfactory 8 Defense against aggression 15 points command out sit heel At the judge's indication the helper re attacks the dog The dog is to immediately and energetically take a full grip on the sleeve to hinder the attack After the dog has gripped the sleeve the helper is to correctly utilize the padded stick The handler is allowed to encourage the dog verbally At the judge's indication the helper stops the attack and becomes passive The dog is to release the sleeve after a single out command and to guard the helper attentively When the judge indicates the handler approaches the dog and gives a sit command to put the dog into the basic position Even if the dog is already sitting the sit command may be given to re enforce the sit Similarly if the dog downs after outing the handler may give a down command to re enforce the down The handler tells the helper to take 3 paces backwards and lift his arms and then puts his dog into a down position The handler then disarms the helper After searching the helper the handler returns to his dog puts him into a sit position The helper then heels his dog to the right of the helper and puts him into the basic position between the helper and handler After a side transport to the judge the handler reports completion of the exercise The helper leaves the field and the judge gives a critique and score during which time the dog may down Evaluation If the dog is unruly in the basic position prior to the courage test up to 3 points will be deducted Evaluation of the out If the dog fails to release at any time during the protection phase the exercise is terminated and no points will be awarded for the exercise

Evaluation of character in the Protection Phase If the dogs leaves the helper before the judge signals the handler to approach the dog phase C is to be ended If dogs are out of control and thus excluded from the remainder of the trial they will receive no score

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52 Dogs that are not allowed to continue in the trial because of insufficient drives self confidence or resilience refusal to grip the sleeve during appropriate exercises receive no score in phase C FURTHER MASTER LEVELS I II III RULES AND TERMINOLOGY TRACKING 1 Suitable Terrain for Tracking Meadow grass plowed fields and forest soil All natural terrain Sight tracking is to be avoided as much as possible 2 Tracking Articles Within any one track articles different from each other must be used Their color may not stand out considerably from that of the terrain and their size may not exceed that of a wallet billfold The articles are to be carried on the track layers bodies for at least 30 minutes before laying the tracks 3 Laying of the track Before laying the tracklayer must show the articles to the judge Only the previously described common use household articles are to be used The trial judge is responsible for determining the layout of the tracks and for the instruction of the track layer s 4 The Scent Pad The start or scent pad is to be marked with a signpost tracking stake with a number mark It is to be placed in the ground directly to the left of the scent pad and must remain there throughout the tracking work The tracklayer remains for awhile on the scent pad and light stepping about on is permitted 5 Legs of the Track A leg of a track is the distance from the starting place to the first turn and is also defined as the distance between turns 6 Corners The corners about 90 degrees are to be made at a normal pace during which attention must be paid to make sure that it is possible for the dog to continue tracking directly into the next leg of the track The continuity of the track is not to be destroyed disrupted by the making of the corners Heavy stomping of the corners is not allowed 7 Placing of the Articles The articles are to be laid on the track while the tracklayer is in motion After laying the last article at the end of the track the tracklayer must proceed straight ahead a few paces further 8 Various Options in the Tracking Work Use of a collar tracking harness or free tracking is permitted a The collar The collar may not be used on the choke ring The lead attached to the collar may be placed over the dog's back along the side of the dog or between the fore legs and or the hind legs b The Tracking Harness The breast harness and the belly band harness are permitted The tracking line is to be attached to the tracking harness by means of the device ring etc on the harness that is provided for that purpose without attaching the line to the collar except in the case of a belly harness If a belly harness is used the judge must ensure that the body strap is not fastened in the area of the dog's sensitive private parts The use of additional straps is not permitted The tracking line must be at least 33 feet long Examination of the line length the collar and the harness by the judge may take place before the beginning of the trial Retractable lines are not permitted c Free Tracking The distance of at least 33 feet between handler and dog must be maintained 9 Tracking Evaluation Start to Finish After the tracks are laid for Master Levels II and III the judge or the trial chairperson will have the handlers draw for their starting positions Each handler will report in to the judge in the basic position with his her dog ready for tracking on the laid out tracking line The handler will inform the judge whether the dog will indicate or pick up the articles a The Start The dog is to be brought calmly to the starting point any forceful influence is to be avoided here The setting of the dog onto the track at the start and after finding the articles must be done at the dog's location not from a distance A certain amount of play in the line must be available to the handler The start is not time dependent

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53 After successfully taking up the scent the dog must proceed with tracking behavior appropriate to the working out of the track After the 4 th unsuccessful start at the beginning the tracking work is to be terminated A start consists of the handler taking the dog at b Tracking Performance Whether the dog tracks fast or slowly is not a factor in the scoring so long as the track is worked out intensively evenly and convincingly The tracking line may sag but this may not result in a substantial shortening of the distance between handler and dog The line touching the ground is not faulty c Indicating and Picking Up of Articles Indicating of articles must be done convincingly in the direction of the track and right before the article As soon as the dog has found an article he must immediately pick it up or indicate it convincingly without influence from the handler The handler must drop the line and immediately go to the dog Found articles are to be shown to the judge by holding them in the hand and raising the arm up high The handler must position himself next to the dog while taking delivery of or lifting up of the article d Leaving the Track If the dog goes to leave the track and the handler restrains him from doing so the judge will instruct the handler to follow the dog The handler must obey this instruction The tracking work is to be terminated if the dog leaves the track by more than one line length or if the handler fails to obey the judge's instruction to follow the dog e Wild Game If wild game appears during the tracking work and the dog goes into hunting drive the handler may give the Down command in an effort to bring the dog under control On the judge's signal the tracking work will then continue If this is unsuccessful the tracking work is to be terminated f Praise Occasional praise and giving of the start command is permitted in all levels g Reporting Out After completion of the tracking work the found articles are to be shown to the judge Playing or feeding the dog between the finding of the last article and the reporting out procedure is not allowed Reporting out must be done with the dog in the basic position 10 Carrying a leash The handler must carry with him her a dog lead throughout the entire course of the trial This includes a requirement that the dog must wear a collar at all times

OBEDIENCE 1 Hurdle The height of the hurdle shall be 39.5 inches and the width shall be 59 inches wide The uppermost 8 inches must be made so it will give flex under load 2 Scaling Wall or A Frame The dimensions of the two sides of the scaling wall are 75 inches long by 59 inches wide Three cleats shall be located approximately 10 22 and 34 inches from the top that extend the width of the side The cleats shall not be larger than 2x2 inches Dumbbells dumbbells are to be made of wood and have the weights prescribed in the regulations The dumbbells available on the trial grounds are to be used by all the trial participants The handler is not allowed to spit on the dumbbells In all the retrieving exercises the dumbbell may not be placed in the dog's mouth in advance 3 Blind One blind must be provided for the use by Master Level III handlers while their dogs are on the long down 4 Pistol and ammunition Caliber .22 or .32 blank ammunition only Starter pistol incapable of firing live shells 5 Procedure a Reporting In At the beginning of each trial section the handlers must report in to the trial judge in a sportsmanlike manner b BH Master Level I and II The handler enters the field with his dog on lead and reports in in the basic position c Master Level III Handler enters field with his dog heeling free and reports in in the basic position 6 Basic Position and Start of Exercises Every exercise begins and ends in the basic position The dog sits straight on the left side and next to his handler with his right shoulder blade at knee height Taking of the basic position is allowed only once per exercise In the basic position the handler stands with a sporting posture straight stance feet together at

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54 attention The ending basic position for one exercise may be used as the beginning basic position for the following exercise 7 Development of the Exercise From out of the basic position on the judge's signal comes the building up of all the obedience exercises the so called development The handler must show a minimum of 10 paces max 15 as the development for the following exercises before the command for the performance of the exercise may be given Sit out of Motion Down out of Motion Master Level III in each gait Walking Stand Running Stand Send Away Handler's Distance from the Dog The handler must exhibit a minimum of 30 paces in those portions where the handler must proceed away from the dog It is up to the handler to decide if he wants to go further than the prescribed minimum of paces The judge may stop a handler from distancing himself to far from the dog 8 Praising Praising of the dog is allowed after every completed exercise but only in the basic position After that the handler may take a new basic position Between praising and starting a new exercise if the handler does not take a new basic position a distinct pause of 3 seconds is to be observed 9 Voice Commands If a dog fails to perform an exercise after three commands are given the exercise is terminated and no points are given for it When recalling the dog the dog's name may be used instead of the command Come However use of the dog's name in combination with the command will be counted as a double command and penalized by a point loss a Penalties for additional commands 1 st extra command part exercise rated satisfactory 2 nd extra command part exercise rated faulty 10 Fronts and Finishes The dog may perform the finish by going around behind the handler or by executing a Military flip finish from in front of the handler The handler may return from the front or by going around behind the dog 11 Behavior During Change of Pace Heeling and Exercise Development The command heel is permitted only at the start and when changing pace The about turn must be a left about turn and the dog may either go around the handler or turn in place 12 Group The group is to consist of four people who are slowly moving Praising of the dog after leaving the Group is permitted only in the ending basic position 13 Gunshots The firing of the gunshots is done during the off leash heeling on the first straight leg of the pattern and during the Down under Distraction Two shots will be fired five seconds apart The first shot is fired at a distance of about 15 paces In Master Level III care must be taken to ensure that the handler of the dog on the Down is out of the dog's sight COMMENT In doubtful cases the judge should assess the dog's gunfire indifference by first instructing the handler to put the dog on lead Shots will then be fired by the judge at a distance of about 15 paces during which the dog must remain on a loose hanging lead If a dog proves to be gun shy it will immediately be eliminated from the trial and the scorebook will be marked failed gun shy Under no circumstances are pistols capable of firing live ammunition to be used 14 Retrieve on Flat Ground The dumbbell must be thrown at least 10 paces away The command Bring may first be given when the dumbbell is lying still 15 39 Inch Hurdle The command Hop may first be given when the dumbbell is lying still the command Bring is given while the dog is still in the process of going over the jump Practice jumps before the exercise are not allowed 16 Scaling Wall or A Frame Master Level II and III only The command Bring must be given while the dog is still in the process of going over the scaling wall on his way to pick up the dumbbell Practice jumps before the exercise are not allowed 17 Send Away The judge designates the start position While giving the command Go the handler may raise up one arm Repeated raising of the arm is not permitted and the arm may not be lowed at the same time that the down command is given

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55 18 Down Under Distraction No leash or other article is to be left with the dog Whenever possible bitches are to be placed on the Down at a spot separate from where the males are placed

PROTECTION PHASE 19 General The assessment of the protection work is of the utmost importance for the breeding selection of working dogs For this reason the assessment of the protection work has the highest priority The protection work is especially effective in differentiating natural and useful performance attributes from learned ones Reporting In The dog handler must in every instance report in to the trial judge at the beginning of the Protection Work If a handler cannot report in with his dog in an orderly fashion for example the dog breaks and runs into the bark blind the handler is allowed three commands to call his dog back If the dog does not come after the third command The Protection Phase is terminated 20 Searching for the Helper The handler must walk at a normal pace in the imaginary midline Upon a single sending in for each blind the dog must go directly and attentively to the blind with intensity and single mindedness and must look into the blind or run around it closely Just looking in is permitted Omitting the search sending directly to the Helper is not allowed 21 Hold and Bark There are no commands allowed on the Hold and Bark Intense close circling of the blind is permitted on a limited basis COMMENTS If the dog leaves the Helper before the handler leaves the midline on the judge's signal the handler may on the judge's signal send the dog in again If the dog then stays close to the helper the Hold exercise will be rated insufficient but the protection work is allowed to continue If on the second attempt the dog fails to go in to the Helper or leaves the Helper again the protection work is terminated If the dog comes to meet the handler as the handler approaches the blind a partial score will result If the dog leaves the Helper before the judge's signal to pick up the dog a partial score is likewise given

Critique After the reporting out the scoring is concluded The dog is put on lead The Helper leaves the field The judge announces the point score The dog is allowed to lie down during the critique 55.

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