By Dorota Karabasz
On May 26, Kaia and I set a new trend being the first team in Canada to achieve the Stöberprüfung-1 (StPr1), or Article Search Test Level 1. The Stöberprüfung involves a dog systematically searching for and indicating articles off-leash within a designated rectangular area. The StPr test has three levels of difficulty, primarily distinguished by the size of the search area and the number of articles to be found.
The idea to train Kaia in Stöberprüfung was sparked by a seminar at K9Force WDC. I was seeking ways to keep Kaia (IGP3) active post-retirement. This specialized article search discipline seemed the perfect fit for her energetic and sharp mind. Our initial training sessions focused on indoor article indication, similar as in IGP tracking. Once we transitioned to outdoor training, Kaia's performance was remarkable. Her years of rigorous IGP training shone through as she moved with purpose, systematically searching for hidden articles and working off-leash—a freedom she relished.
The May club trial marked our first competition which was held under the watchful eye of USDA/SV judge Nathaniel Roque. For the StPr-1, the search area measured 20 by 30 meters. Within this area Kaia had to find and indicate two articles, while I was restricted to the centre line directing her solely from that position.
Kaia quickly picked up the scent of both articles, indicating each one with precision and without hesitation. Her intense focus and enthusiasm during the search were clearly evident. I am proud of Kaia’s success, her swift and accurate indications, which earned us a remarkable score of 95 points securing our Level 1 StPr title.
Our success in the StPr-1 test has fueled my determination to continue training Kaia in this discipline. Beyond the physical fitness it provides, article indication keeps Kaia mentally stimulated, ensuring she remains active and engaged after retiring from her successful IGP career.
By participating in future trials, we hope to inspire others to explore this discipline. It provides an excellent avenue for dogs to stay active, engaged, and mentally stimulated, fostering a deeper bond between dog and handler. With more awareness and participation, Stöberprüfung could become a popular and rewarding activity for many dog enthusiasts in Canada and beyond.
K9Force (2024, June). In the Judge’s Seat: Exclusive Interview with Nathaniel Roque.
© K9Force WDC 2024. For permission to reproduce any article in this blog, contact info@k9force.ca
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