FCI-IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshunde Prüfungsordnung)

FCI-IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshunde Prüfungsordnung) is a sport designed to test the working ability, temperament, and training of dogs through three distinct phases: Tracking, Obedience, and Protection.

It offers dogs and handlers an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and partnership across a variety of challenging tasks, with an emphasis on precision, control, and instinct.

The Three Phases of IGP

Tracking

Dogs must accurately follow a scent trail laid out on natural terrain.
The exercise evaluates the dog’s ability to focus, work independently, and locate small articles placed along the track.

Obedience

Dogs must perform a series of obedience exercises in a field, including heeling, retrieving, and recall work.
The exercises are performed under controlled conditions and judged on precision, enthusiasm, and teamwork between dog and handler.

Protection

In the protection phase, dogs are required to demonstrate courage, control, and responsiveness under pressure.
The dog must protect the handler, locate and detain a “helper,” and respond precisely to commands, while maintaining composure and discipline.

Evaluation and Emphasis

In all three phases, dogs are assessed for:

Instinctive behaviour
Self-confidence
Ability to cope with stress
Obedience

The emphasis is on precision and the ability of the dog to work confidently and reliably under varying conditions.

Each phase is judged individually, and points are awarded for execution, control, and performance.

Who Can Participate?

IGP is open to a wide range of breeds, traditionally including German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Malinois, and other working breeds.
However, any dog with the required drive, temperament, and training can participate.

Handlers must be dedicated to training and conditioning their dogs for the challenges of tracking, obedience, and protection.

Participation in IGP strengthens the bond between dog and handler while showcasing the dog’s natural working abilities.

Download the IGP Leaflet

Click here to download the full IGP Information Leaflet (PDF)