AKC approves Working Dog Sport - Page 2

I would think the answer will depend on the judges selected. Will they be an AKC obedience judge or an SV judge? Would an organization like DVG, USCA or even the WDA be willing to supply a judge for an event? Lots of questions. AS I recall the judge had to be certified the working dog sport program to judge. I guess we will know when the list of approved judges is released. I want to recall one of the requirements was that AKC would not allow another organization to conduct the event which seemed strange to me. This eliminates the WDA for instance having one of the AKC trials even though they are an arm of the AKC that represents one of the selected breeds. I think there's a lot more that needs to be ironed out before we see what becomes of the program.

For sure the SV and WDA would be willing to supply Judges for the event. The WDA is a part of the GSDCA, just set up as a different club so they could hold Schutzhund trials. All that has to occur is for a local GSDCA club host the trial, with approval from the GSDCA. The WDA members, which are also GSDCA members, would do the work, or act as helpers for the local GSDCA club. The WDA is not a member of the AKC, other than it's association with the GSDCA. Everything is pretty much ironned out at this time. We just don't know the details, yet. But I can assure you that the Judges for these events, will be certified Schutzhund Judges from the SV, WDA, or another FCI organization. Keep in mind that the Rottweiler, Dobberman, and Bouvier clubs will also be bringing in Judges for their events as well. Every effort will be made to secure the most respected Judges.

Q: Who may judge these events? A: An individual who is in good standing with AKC, and who meets the following criteria, may judge WDS events: Documented experience in this activity. Be at least 21 years of age. Successful completion of an AKC-approved WDS institute/seminar. Two references from among the President, Training Director, or Director of WDS judges for a Parent Club in the program. Additional requirements may be added by AKC, based upon recommendations from the Parent Clubs in the program. From: www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=2876