SchutzHund 3 Tracking




Maximum point score is 100 points.

Track Laying

Tracking on a 800 to 1000 paces long track laid by a stranger at least fifty minutes old with three objects.

The strange track has four 90 degree right angle turns. The judge, by taking into consideration the existing terrain, will determine the course of the track. The tracks must be of different shapes. It is not recommended that the corners and articles be at the same distance on all tracks. The start must be properly marked with a sign or marker which is to be pressed into the ground at the left hand side
of the starting point. The tracklayer, after remaining at the starting point for some time, will proceed in the direction as indicated by the judge and places the first article after approximately 100 paces and the second article on the middle of the second or third leg without interrupting pace or changing stride. The third article is to be deposited at the end of the track. The tracklayer will now proceed a
few paces straight ahead and move away from the track. The handler has the option of tracking the dog freely or with a 10 meter leash. Both methods will be scored identically.

Performance Rules and Regulation

The tracklayer must show the articles to the judge prior to the laying of the track. Only practical objects which carry the scent of the tracklayer, which are not greater than the size of a wallet and do not differ in color from the terrain are to be used. So called search packages are not to be used during the trial, however wallets, eye glasses cases, etc. can be used. During the laying of the track,
the dog and handler must be out of sight. The scent of the track must not be disturbed when an article is placed, that is the track layer must not scuff or stop. The article must not be placed next to the track but must be placed onto the track. 
The handler prepares the dog for the tracking exercise. As soon as the dog begins to track, the handler must stop and let the length of the 10 meter leash glide through his/her hands. The handler now follows the dog and maintains the 10 meter distance even though the dog may track without a leash.

Immediately after the dog has found an article it must be either picked up or convincingly pointed out without being influenced by the handler. During the pick up indication, the dog may stop and stand, sit or return to the handler. Forward motion with the article or picking up while lying down is faulty. The point out indication can be accomplished either by lying down, sitting or a stand stay. The
handler drops the leash and proceeds immediately to the dog. By lifting the article high into the air, the handler indicates to the judge that the object has been found. It is permissible for the handler to step toward the dog who has picked up the article, however it is faulty if the dog continues with the article. The tracking leash may hang loosely when being held by the handler. The handler and dog
continue on the track. The articles are presented to the presiding judge after the completion of the track.

Minimum point score is 70 points.

Go to SchH III Protection