There are many amazing resources online that can help you get started in IGP. The first level is the BH, which is an obedience and temperament test, so we recommend focusing on your obedience fundamentals before you join a club. 

The basic position and focused heel are key skills for your dog, and are used in all levels of IGP. Any dogs wishing to join WSDC must have these skills already established. 

New to IGP?

• Dogs must have an established marker system, basic position, and focused heel

• Dogs should be over 1 year old

• Handlers must be familiar with the sport of IGP and the level requirements

• Dogs must be able to be crated in the car safely while they are not on the field

• Dogs that are under 1 year old will still be considered for handlers with prior experience in the sport

• There are no breed-specific limitations

Wollongong Sportdog Club does annual intakes in January. Membership is capped, so each intake may have a different number of spots available, and priority will be given to dogs/handers who have prior training in IGP.

Prospective handlers should be planning to complete their first title within 6 months of joining (pending age limitations and trial availability), and should already have a strong foundation in IGP skills and training.  

Our club meets weekly on Mondays from 5pm until late. A minimum attendance rate of 65% per annum is mandatory for all members. In addition to this, members are expected to attend a minimum of 1 club tracking session (6am, usually on weekends) per month. Dogs that are of age are expected to participate in at least 1 trial per year.

WSDC hosts 2 trials per year (usually in March and September) and all club members are required to attend, regardless of whether they are entered in the trial. Additional workshops may also take place throughout the year which require club attendance, and these will be advised several weeks in advance.