Will Schutzhund Training make my Dog Aggressive?

Schutzhund training is a rigorous training program that was originally developed for German Shepherds in order to test their suitability for police and military work. The training includes obedience, tracking, and protection work. While some people believe that Schutzhund training can make a dog aggressive, this is not necessarily the case.

When done correctly, Schutzhund training is designed to enhance a dog's natural instincts and abilities, and to develop their intelligence and trainability. The protection work component of Schutzhund training is not meant to create aggressive dogs, but rather to build their confidence, focus and control.

The key to successful Schutzhund training is to find a qualified and experienced trainer who understands how to properly train and handle the dogs. They should be able to teach the dog in a positive and motivational way, and provide a balance of discipline and reward.

It's also important to remember that all dogs have different temperaments and personalities, and not all dogs are suitable for Schutzhund training. It's a good idea to consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist before starting any type of advanced training to determine if your dog is a good candidate for it, and to ensure that the training is done in a safe and appropriate way.

It is important to note that Schutzhund is not a sport suitable for all dog breeds, it's mainly used for certain types of working breeds such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Belgian Malinois, and it's not recommended to use this type of training on breeds that are not suited for it, as it may cause more harm than good.

1 comment

Very few dogs have the mentality to go through or are candidates for schutzhund training let alone competing. I’ve only had two, though they may Excell in one maybe two phases of the training, it’s difficult to find that rare dog who’s intelligence, focus and drive exceed most others. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had some wonderful dogs, loyal protective and just great dogs, loved them all. You’re getting on a different playing field all together with that one special dog.

Gunther Wallner December 07, 2023

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