The sport of Schutzhund in America found its roots starting in 1957, in California. The first German Shepherd (GSD) fanciers began to train together under the tutelage of Czechoslovakian immigrant, Gernot Riedel. This group later became the first U.S. Schutzhund Club in 1958. The first Schutzhund trial held in America was in 1963. However, the first official SV (the sanctioning club in Germany), sanctioned trial was in 1969.
In 1972, the parent GSD breed club in Germany required trials to be held under the GSDCA, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America. However, this was short lived and in 1975, the GSDCA declared a moratorium on all trials because the AKC (American Kennel Club), did not want to be involved with the sport. This continues on today.
Due to this, on November 21, 1975, the United Schutzhund Clubs of America was formed. In 1975 there was only six full member clubs registered with the USCA. In 2013 the number had increased to 200 full member clubs.
In March of 2000 the first all GSD National IPO3 Championship was held. This is the world qualifier championship that determines what team will represent the USA at the World Championship. Today the World Qualifier is known as the USCA GSD IPO3 National Championship. Also lovingly called, “The Nationals.” Both nationals and worlds are held by different clubs that are full clubs recognized by the USCA.
I have been taking lessons with O.G. Indianapolis Schutzhund und Polizei, which is a working dog organization and a longstanding member of the United Schutzhund Clubs of America, Mid Eastern Region. I am so grateful for all the assistance the members have given me and Creed. I have found a group that is like a family, and I always hope my clients can feel that way when they work with me.
If you are interested in Schutzhund and would like to find a club or trial near you, checkout the USCA website at www.germanshepherdog.com.
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