Working dogs in transition – An interview with Markus Neutz (Part 3)

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.

Working dogs in transition – An interview with Markus Neutz (Part 2)

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?

Working dogs in transition – An interview with Markus Neutz (Part 1)

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.

The "guard dog" from a veterinary perspective

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 working dog TODAY – the journey continues in 2026!

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.

Gebrauchshundesport (IGP) ist jung und dynamisch. Schutzdienst im IGP-Sport ist ungefährlich.

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

IGP officially recognized in South Australia – An important milestone for the IGP community across Australia

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.

Survey on working dogs in veterinary practices – your support counts!

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!

Ban on working dog sports in Austria: Growing criticism from ministries

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.

The Working Dog as a School Dog

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.

German Shepherd Dog: Why Protection Service is Indispensable

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.

From successful entrepreneur to dedicated dog sportsman: Interview with Tayfun Ledin

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.

An Interview with Klaus-Jürgen Glüh (Vice President of the FCI Utility Dogs Commission)

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.

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