What began in 2023 as a bold pilot project is developing into a movement. Our Gebrauchshund HEUTE enters its next phase in 2026, with an overwhelming response.

With participants from home and abroad, from almost all breed associations of working dogs and a strong representation from the operational area, this meeting once again unites what belongs together: service and sport, science and practice, experience and innovation.

Looking back: 2023 – the starting signal for a new way of thinking

Moderated by Dr. Esther Schalke (Senior Veterinarian, German Armed Forces Service Dog School), experts, breeders and practitioners discussed in 2023 which character traits the working dog of today needs.

The discussions were not purely theoretical. Practical tests and initial investigations into the heritability of key traits rounded out the program. The results had an impact: some findings have already been incorporated into breeding regulations, particularly the increased focus on environmental safety and the motivation for scent work. This is a clear signal for a future-oriented breeding approach.

2026: Focus on environmental safety and nose work

In January 2026, the focus will be on the further development of these topics. To ensure that scientific findings form the framework and not just opinions, leading experts will once again accompany the event.

Prof. Julia Metzer, Director of the Institute for Animal Genomics at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo Hannover), and Dr. Esther Schalke, Senior Veterinary Officer at the German Armed Forces' Service Dog School, will provide scientific support for the event and offer insights into current research approaches.

Practical experience will again play a central role this year. Chief Inspector Achim Hilger (trainer and examiner for service dogs in North Rhine-Westphalia) will conduct live evaluations of dogs for purchase, demonstrating what is truly important for working and operational dogs.

Hans Ebbers (former Chief Police Commissioner and SEK member, trainer and performance judge) as well as representatives of the Customs Dog School Bleckede also provide insights into the training of detection dogs, training methods and proven tools from everyday operations.

Achieving more together

With 120 participants already registered, the event is fully booked. This clearly demonstrates the high level of interest in responsible breeding, modern training, and scientifically sound performance evaluation.

For those who were unable to secure a place, work is currently underway on an online dial-in or live stream so that as many interested people as possible can participate.

Only together can we shape the working dog of tomorrow – with knowledge, exchange and passion for the dog that is needed today and tomorrow.