A scent detection seminar with Prof. Jens Frank from the Swedish Working Dog Institute will take place in Ennepetal from August 21 to 23, 2026. Two free spots are available for young people up to the age of 25. Applications can be submitted via email or social media.
The Helpers Marathon Camp will take place in Prague from July 21 to 26, 2026. It features six days of intensive training for protection work helpers with Jany Böhm, Jeremy Olmez, and Manuel SnoWhite—including F.O.D. Bronze Level Helper Certification on Saturday.
The IGP Youngstars Academy continues to grow: young handlers received further practical training through an obedience seminar with Kathrin Heldt and Thomas Wesselmann, as well as a webinar with Connie and Peter Scherk on maintaining a calm, firm hold on the dumbbell. Both sessions demonstrated the immense value of clear, understandable training, structured approaches, and genuine support for the next generation in the future of dog sports.
To date, there have been very few scientific studies regarding the perception of dog sports, working dogs, and dog training. A Master's thesis by Daniela Schuster-Gerschler aims to address precisely this gap. The anonymous survey takes only about 10 minutes to complete and is open to individuals aged 18 and over in Germany—whether or not they have experience with dogs. Every participation helps to ground discussions surrounding dogs more firmly in facts rather than prejudices.
How do you meaningfully bring a polarizing topic like working dog sport into schools? After the first training course, one thing is clear: the interest is high—but so are the challenges. Teacher Anna Steinmüller explains in an interview why prejudice, bureaucracy, and a lack of structured concepts make this difficult, and where concrete steps are now being taken.
Die SH Dogsport Arena und der RZV für Hovawarte laden zu einem besonderen IGP-Event ein. In einzigartiger Atmosphäre treten Hovawarte, Boxer, Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier und Dobermänner gegeneinander an. Die moderne, beheizte und klimatisierte Arena bietet ideale Bedingungen für Hund und Hundeführer.
Geführt wird in den Abteilungen B und C – sowohl als Einzelstarter als auch im Team. Renommierte Leistungsrichter und erfahrene Helfer sorgen für sportliche Qualität auf höchstem Niveau.
Im Mittelpunkt steht der Spaß am IGP-Sport und die Präsentation der „Exoten“ im Rampenlicht.
Termin: 24./25. Mai 2026 (Pfingsten)
Ort: SH Dogsport Arena, Hückelhoven
Worldwide, agencies working with dogs are facing the growing challenge of providing healthy, high-performing, and temperamentally stable working dogs. K9-and-Sports therefore brings together authorities, breeders, and experts to ensure the quality and training of these dogs in a practical, real-world context. A key highlight was the specialist event in Ennepetal, where more than 150 participants had the opportunity to listen to and exchange ideas with leading experts in genetics, breeding, and training.
The event is covered by the DPolG in their article.
In this guest article, Björn Schimanski and Björn Pansegrau report on their participation in the K9 and Sports event in Ennepetal. Representatives from breeding, sport, and working dog sectors—including the police, customs, and the German Armed Forces—exchanged information there on modern working dog breeding, selection criteria, and training. The insights gained are also of particular importance for the future of the Doberman as a high-performing working dog.
On March 24th at 6:30 pm, a new online professional development course will offer Bavarian teachers of grades 3 and 4 practical knowledge about dogs. From dog breeds and care to working dogs and controversial topics such as breeding, training, and responsibility – teachers will learn how to meaningfully integrate school dogs or external dog visits into their lessons.
Do you work with dogs? Then your experience is needed! A new survey is gathering practical knowledge from training, medicine, and care – participate and help create reliable data.
Ennepetal 2.0 was more than just an event: people from the worlds of sport, breeding, science, and service dog work came together – from all over Germany and several European countries. Despite challenging weather conditions, an intensive exchange of expertise took place, enabling new collaborations and providing important impetus for the future of working dog work.
Our Gebrauchshund HEUTE, will take place again in 2026, and the response has been overwhelming. With participants from Germany and abroad, as well as from nearly all working dog breed associations, the meeting will once again foster exchange between service and sport, practice and science.
The focus is on environmental safety and scent work, accompanied by experts such as Prof. Julia Metzer and Dr. Esther Schalke. Jens Frank combines theory and practical demonstrations of scent and detection dog work – with insights that are equally valuable for law enforcement agencies and athletes. Furthermore, insights into detection dog training by Hans Ebbers and the Bleckede Customs Dog School make the event particularly practical.
With 120 registered participants, the event is fully booked; an online stream is being prepared for everyone else. Together, we are shaping the working dog of tomorrow.
In this section, Neutz provides a firsthand account of his work on the working dog commission, the training of judges and assistants, and his perspective on the optimal training of dogs. He explains how motivation, technique, and emotion interact, why a dog should stand precisely where it is positioned on the trial field, and why the distinction between a sporting dog and a working dog is often crucial.
In the first part of the interview, Markus Neutz spoke primarily about changes in the temperament and resilience of today's working dogs, and the role that breeding, suitability for everyday life, and stress management play in this. In the second part, we now turn to training: How have obedience and protection work changed, what role does social media play, and what requirements does a modern examination system impose?
Why do many dogs today seem softer, more sensitive to stimuli, or more easily overwhelmed? Our interviewee describes changes that are noticeable in breeding, training, and practical handling. Between technology-oriented training, media role models, and incomplete selection, essential characteristics of a reliable working dog are increasingly under pressure. An insight into the background and connections.
A recent survey of 126 veterinarians shows that working dogs are far less frequently considered aggressive or problematic in practice than is often assumed. Many owners demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and provide good training for their dogs.
Our Gebrauchshund HEUTE, will take place again in 2026, and the response has been overwhelming. With participants from Germany and abroad, as well as from nearly all working dog breed associations, the meeting will once again foster exchange between service and sport, practice and science.
The focus is on environmental safety and scent work, accompanied by experts such as Prof. Julia Metzer and Dr. Esther Schalke. Live demonstrations by Chief Inspector Achim Hilger, as well as insights into detection dog training by Hans Ebbers and the Bleckede Customs Dog School, make the event particularly practical.
With 120 registered participants, the event is fully booked; an online stream is being prepared for everyone else. Together, we are shaping the working dog of tomorrow.
Anne Apelmeier has been passionate about dog sports and the breeding of Malinois since her youth. In this interview, she talks about her beginnings, the special role of her first female dog “Hexe,” her breeding philosophy, and the path of her dogs into working service as police and military dogs.
An exciting insight into the world of working dogs – from the puppies’ first weeks to the demands of everyday work.
Anne Apelmeier has been passionate about dog sports and the breeding of Malinois since her youth. In this interview, she talks about her beginnings, the special role of her first female dog “Hexe,” her breeding philosophy, and the path of her dogs into working service as police and military dogs.
An exciting insight into the world of working dogs – from the puppies’ first weeks to the demands of everyday work.
Im Hundewesen kursieren zahllose Mythen, Gerüchte und Halbwahrheiten. Fundierte wissenschaftliche Studien oder belastbare Erkenntnisse sind dagegen noch immer rar. Das führt nicht selten zu geradezu
Arthur, a trained IGP-3 German Shepherd, and his handler compete in Top Dog Germany – The Best Dog in Germany. In just 1.5 weeks, Arthur learned over 30 tricks – from bowling to the washing machine – and impressed during filming with his nerves of steel, coolness, and close bond with the crew.
On August 5, 2025, an article by Tanja Mayer about the IGP Youngstars 2025 in Gaimersheim appeared in the Donaukurier.
The article highlights how working dog sports can not only deliver athletic performance, but also make an important contribution to society.
With the kind permission of the Donaukurier, we provide the full article here as a PDF.
Das IGP Youngstars Camp 2025 war ein voller Erfolg und hat hat in Bezug auf den IPG Gebrauchshundesport vor allem drei wesentliche Aspekte klar gezeigt:
1. Der Gebrauchshundesport lebt und ist jung und dynamisch
2. Der Schutzdienst als Teildisziplin des Gebrauchshundesports ist keine Gefahr für Menschen
3. Der Gebrauchshundesport ist mehr als ein Hobby, er ist ein Dienst an der Gesellschaft
A weekend full of team spirit, training, and animal power:
At the IGP Youngstars & Helper Camp 2025, over 300 young dog sports enthusiasts met in Gaimersheim to learn, train, and exchange ideas with world champions, police, and military professionals. The event became living proof of the social potential of modern working dog sports.
Over 250 young people, three disciplines and a strong political message: At the IGP Youngstars Camp in Gaimersheim, Dr. Reinhard Brandl personally acknowledged the importance of working dog sports – and, together with K9andSports, set an exclamation mark for the future.
Working dog sport is threatened not by political bans, but by its own structures. Patricia Knabl discusses problems with young talent, the need for reform, and new impetus for IGP sport.
In his welcoming address to the IGP YOUNGSTARS 2025, Dr. Reinhard Brandl, Member of the German Bundestag, acknowledged the commitment of the organizers, trainers, and participants. He emphasized the importance of working dogs as an intangible cultural heritage and wished all two- and four-legged friends exciting and educational days in Gaimersheim.
A milestone for IGP sport in Australia:
The government of South Australia has now explicitly excluded IGP dogs from the definition of "aggressively trained dogs." This recognizes that IGP is not a form of training that increases aggression, but rather a sport that promotes work ethic, discipline, and the well-being of both dogs and owners.
This decision is the result of many committed voices – especially Connie Bonaros, who fought for fairness, education, and well-founded decisions. It's an important step for the IGP sport, for animal welfare, and for the coexistence of dogs, owners, and the public.
How do working dogs behave in veterinary practices – differently than "normal" dogs?
A new survey among veterinarians aims to provide answers. K9andSports supports the project to counter rumors and half-truths with real data. Help now: Share the survey link and strengthen research!
The ban on protection services and working dog sports is causing heated debate in Austria. Now, the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) and the Federal Armed Forces have also taken a stand – and their reactions demonstrate that the issue has long since gone beyond dog sports. Here are the statements in full.
Working dog and school dog - a contradiction? Many people can hardly imagine that high-performance dogs from IGP sports also play a valuable role in the classroom. But this is exactly where the "The Working Dog as a School Dog" project comes in: It shows how German Shepherds can support not only in sports or service, but also in everyday school life with their calm charisma and strong bond with people. From September 2025, a unique project seminar for high school students will start - with practical examples, expert knowledge and the aim of breaking down prejudices.
The aggressive behavior of dogs is often viewed critically - but it plays an important role in social interaction. The behavioral biologist Dr. Dorit Urd Feddersen-Petersen has studied the social behavior of various dog breeds and comes to a clear conclusion: the breeding of the German Shepherd Dog seems to be going in the right direction. A decisive factor here is the protection service - if carried out correctly, it is indispensable for the breed.
In the interview, Tayfun talks about his first experiences with dogs, how he became fascinated with dog sports and how he became a sponsor of K9-and-Sports through the support of the dog sports community. He also gives us insights into his views on the Doberman's strong nerves. He shares his vision for the future of dog sports and why it is important to him to preserve and pass on this tradition. His commitment shows that he strives not only professionally but also personally to create lasting connections - be it between people and brands or between people and dogs.
We at “K9 and Sports” are committed to putting working dog sports in the right light. We are looking for committed scientists
for exciting dissertation topics relating to sporting dogs.
What we offer:
Financial support (e.g. laboratory costs)
An extensive network & collaborations
Access to huge amounts of data & volunteer test subjects
Interest? Write to Simon Bach or Patricia Pehrsson on Facebook or send us a direct pm or email: mail@k9andsports.com
Dental caps for dogs - useful or dangerous? They are becoming increasingly popular in the world of dog sports, but experts warn: Dental caps can increase the risk of fractures and dental diseases. In an interview, Dr. Martin Florian Buck explains why dental caps do more harm than good, what risks they pose and when professional dental crowning is actually necessary. Find out why aesthetics can be dangerous in this case and what alternatives there are to keep your dog's teeth healthy!
Dogs rarely show toothache, but untreated dental problems can have serious consequences for their health and performance. Find out in our interview how you can recognize dental diseases in your dog early, which preventive measures really help and why regular check-ups with your veterinary dentist are so important. Don't miss these valuable tips for a healthy dog life!
The new International Utility Dogs Regulations have been adopted and will take effect from January 1, 2025: What changes do you need to be aware of, and how and why were the adjustments made? We had the opportunity to ask all our questions to our K9andSports ambassador Klaus-Jürgen Glüh, who is, among other roles, Vice President of the FCI Utility Dogs Commission and a member of the VDH Utility Dogs Commission.
Sprenger and K9andSports share a passion for working dog sports and work together to promote its acceptance in society. As a leading manufacturer of dog necklaces, Sprenger relies on the highest quality and product safety to optimally support athletes. Through their sponsorship, they not only want to further develop their products, but also actively shape the future of dog sports.
In the second part of this interview, Horst-Dieter Träger talks about the special characteristics and abilities of sniffer dogs, their breeding and training, as well as the challenges and perspectives in the fight against drug smuggling.
Horst-Dieter Träger, a retired, experienced dog handler from customs in Bremerhaven and K9 ambassador, has made a name for himself as an innovative problem solver. With his combination of expertise in the field of detection dogs and his passion for technical innovations, he has developed a new method for drug detection. This method makes it possible to detect drugs in shipping containers more efficiently and quickly. We took this as an opportunity and conducted a two-part interview with him. In the first part you will find out more about the search method he developed.
During a conversation with Eileen Brendel, we gain exciting insights into her first steps in dog sports. After successfully mastering her first obedience test with her Hovawart dog Milla, she reflects on her beginnings, challenges and passion for this sport. Eileen shares her motivation as a youth ambassador at K9 and Sports and encourages young people to actively participate in this exciting world.
In the following article, Fanny, Fiete's owner, will tell you about the impressive connection between man and dog as well as Fiete's remarkable abilities both as a therapy dog and in the demanding IGP sport and make it clear that both aspects are by no means mutually exclusive.
The SV youth and junior championship took place in Dingolfing at the weekend, where young participants showed their skills in dealing with German Shepherd dogs. Hubert Aiwanger, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of offspring and practical animal protection in his speech. He criticized the animal welfare regulations that were often issued by people with little experience and argued that politicians and theorists should not interfere in the breeding goals. The event not only offered exciting competitions, but also an opportunity to celebrate the next generation of German Shepherd handlers.
Horst-Dieter Träger is an ambassador for "K9andSports" and, prior to his retirement, worked as a customs dog handler and trainer. He discusses his service with the dog and the demands placed on the animal.
Summer is just around the corner and by now everyone has probably realized that overheating is a major danger for dogs. But what about the differences between dog breeds? What to do if a dog overheats? And what factors increase the risk of overheating? You can find out all this and more in our article.
In the second part of our conversation with Astrid Hübner from Malinois Diversity, she shares her views on maintaining genetic diversity through cross-breeding and talks about topics such as popular sire syndrome, inbreeding coefficients and the genetic identification of dog breeds.
In an interview with K9andSports, Astrid Hübner, founder of the "Malinois Diversity" project, shares her experiences and insights regarding dog breeding. She describes her background and highlights the importance of health testing for breeding dogs. Furthermore, she discusses various aspects of breeding selection—including temperament traits and environmental behavior—as well as the challenges involved in selecting dogs for different dog sports.
In this letter, we address the pressing issue of the impending ban on working dog sports in Austria. As an organization deeply committed to the preservation of capable and healthy working dogs, we aim to present our concerns and arguments against this ban. Within this correspondence, we shed light on the diverse roles that working dogs play in society and illustrate the potential adverse effects of such a prohibition. We invite you to delve into our arguments and engage with this crucial issue.
"TAKE MATTERS INTO
YOUR OWN HANDS"
A strong work ethic, resilience, and noise tolerance – that
are just a few traits of working dogs. The initiative K9and
Sports advocates for working dog breeds. Their goal is to preserve the
exceptional qualities of service dogs used in roles such as police, military, or
Customs, explained by organizer Florian Knabl.
Lena, a primary school teacher from the Palatinate region. Her dogs Anni (Border Collie, 7 years old) and Saru (Malinois, 3 years old) are school and riding companion dogs, as well as active in IGP sports. They have undergone extensive training, are calm in their interactions with children, and have experience in the film industry. We critically question the working dog sport and emphasize responsible training.
English 
German