The purpose of the Phoenix Schutzhund Club is the promotion and enjoyment of the working dog, primarily through Schutzhund/IPO dog training (Obedience, Protection, and Tracking) as defined by the Verbande fur das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH, German parent organization for dog clubs). Phoenix Schutzhund Club is and will be conducted as a non-profit organization. The objective of this association will
be to preserve the German Shepherd dog in accordance with the breed standard as a working dog, to promote humane dog training methods for the working dog and to support responsible dog ownership and breeding practices. "Schutzhund is a European form of training which aims to develop the full working potential of the dog while maintaining its spirited, intelligent character." The Schutzhund training program consists in principal of three parts: Obedience, Tracking and Protection. The dual goal of the Schutzhund program, as viewed by the club, is:
The enhancement of the working dog by developing and demonstrating the inherent abilities and instincts of the dog, allowing for recognition and selection of the desirable physical and mental traits. Our Dog-Training Philosophy
The dog's loyalty to its master combined with its inherent working abilities is the basis for all training undertaken by this Club; training methods used shall be in keeping with this basis. Obedience, Protection, and Tracking training sessions designed to prepare the dog handler team for Schutzhund trials shall be held by the club at least once a week. All Schutzhund trial preparation shall be in accordance with VDH trial rules. Training goals may vary from or go beyond the Schutzhund performance requirements to accommodate the membership's views and interests, but all training must fall within the framework of the Club's stated purpose and all dogs on the active list of the Club's record are to be engaged in United Schutzhund Clubs of America trial degree preparation on a regular basis.
