About SWDC (Synergy Working Dog Club)

The goal of the Synergy Working Dog Club is to be a safe place to learn. Our passion is the working dog breeds and our goal is to excel in performance events that showcase the working dog's abilities – specifically IGP/IPO/Schutzhund.

We apply tested methods of behavioural science in order to understand and communicate with our dogs. We do this in a supportive environment, and our concerns are, in order, the safety of the community, the handler, and the dog.

Visiting the Club

We are monitoring the COVID situation. Currently, we are permitting some visitors on a limited basis. We understand that quite a few people have acquired a dog during COVID, and are now interested in Schutzhund. If you are looking for a club and want to find out more about us, please phone Penny at (416) 561-2607 to find out if we are a good fit for you.

What is Schutzhund/IPO/IGP?

Schutzhund was the original test of suitability for the German Shepherd Dog - the proof that the dog was worthy to be bred and be part of the legacy of the breed. In a nutshell - it is sport that demonstrates the dog's ability to work in harmony with her/his handler, and to demonstrate their courage and obedience.

Schutzhund has three parts: Tracking, Obedience, and Protection. The Tracking portion demonstrates the dog's ability to follow a scent with focus and concentration. In the Obedience portion, dogs perform a variety of exercises such as heeling, sitting, retrieving, and ignoring distractions. The Protection portion tests the dog's courage and strength, but also their obedience and ability to remain calm.

Schutzhund training and competition preserves the spirit of the dogs that also the base for canine law enforcement dogs, military working dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Although Schutzhund training is for all breeds, German Shepherd Dogs do excel due to their intelligence, their bravery, and their willingness to work and to please.