Working dog training encompasses the targeted training of dogs for various welfare-oriented tasks to assist humans. These include search and rescue missions, assistance for people with disabilities, and the protection and guarding of property. Since the domestication of dogs around 15,000 years ago, the close cooperation between humans and animals has continued to develop and has been structured into clubs and organisations.

Dog bites are a hotly debated topic in Australia, frequently appearing in news articles or online forums. But what are the real statistics of dog bites? Are certain breeds or situations more likely to contribute to these statistics? What are the things that we, as dog owners and handlers, can do to mitigate risk? This article aims to dispel some of the questions and uncertainty around dog bite statistics, and aid in better understanding the actions we can all take to keep ourselves and our pets safe.

IGP is a sport that consists of three levels, IGP1, IGP2 and IGP3. IGP1 is the beginner and “easiest” while IGP3 is the advanced level. With each of these levels consisting of three phases, tracking, obedience and character work.