AD - Ausdauerprufung - Endurance Test
GSDL
General information
The AD is an endurance test used for show and breeding requirements. The endurance test will provide evidence that the dog is able to perform physical exertion of a certain degree without afterwards manifesting substantial symptoms of fatigue. The required strain on the physical condition of the dog can only come from running exercises. It also tests other characteristics, such as vitality and toughness. The ability to endure must be regarded as evidence of physical health and the presence of desired characteristics; both are desirable in our breed stock.
Application
The endurance test will be run by the member club. It is subject to trial date approval like every other event. In the registration of the dog, all known facts are to be declared and the scorebook submitted.
Requirements for entry
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The minimum age for admission is 16 months; the maximum age for admission is 6 years.
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A single judge is authorized to test a maximum of 20 dogs; if there are more than 20 dogs, a second judge must be consulted.
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The handlers must present a working record book.
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Dogs must be completely healthy, as well as in superb condition. Sick dogs, dogs without strength, bitches in heat, and pregnant or nursing bitches may not be admitted.
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At the beginning of the test, after being called, the participants prepare themselves for the identification check.
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All participants must announce to the judge their names and the names of their dogs. The judge together with the trial manager must be satisfied that the dog is in good condition.
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Dogs which give an impression of tiredness are to be disqualified from participating.
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The handler must have a sportsmanlike manner throughout the test.
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A participant can be disqualified from the trial for wilful violation of the regulations.
The decision in every case rests with the judge; it is not contestable.
Scoring
The Points and ratings are not awarded, but only Passed (Bestanden) or Failed (Nicht Bestanden). Dogs with Passed (Bestanden) the title AD will be awarded.
Terrain
As much as possible, the test shall be held on streets and paths of differing composition. Asphalted, paved and unpaved streets and paths are suitable.
Holding the endurance test
Completion of a distance of 12.5 miles (20km) in 1.5 hours. The dog must run on the side of the handler at a normal trot next to the bike. A hurried pace is to be avoided. The line must be held at an appropriate length so that the dog has the possibility to adapt his pace to the speed. Light pulling on the line (forging) is not incorrect; however, constant lagging behind is. The judge and trial manager shall accompany the dogs, if possible on bikes, but they can also follow in a car. Notes on the dogs are to be recorded. It is necessary for a car to follow the participants so that the in which weaknesses or injuries are perceived can be transported in the car.
a - after the dogs have completed 4.5 miles, there is a 15 minute break. During this time the judge is to observe the dogs for possible signs of fatigue and sore feet. Severely fatigued dogs are to be disqualified from further testing.
b - after the first break, the dogs complete an additional 4.5 miles before there is then a 20 minute break during which they are given the chance to exercise freely and unrestricted. Shortly before continuing the moving exercise, the judge checks the dogs for signs of fatigue or sore paws. Severely fatigued dogs, or whose paws are sore, must be disqualified from further running of the test.
c - after the second break, the dogs complete an additional 3 miles. After completion of the running exercise there is an additional 15 minute break, during which time the dogs are given the chance to exercise freely and unrestricted. Here again the dogs are checked.
Valid as failing the test is if dogs are lacking in toughness or show no signs of vitality, show unusual signs of fatigue and cannot keep up with the minimum pace of 12km per hour and consume considerably more time. Dogs with extremely sore feet and that show shyness in traffic are also to be excluded from passing.
Obedience
After the running exercise and when requested by the judge, the handler will assemble with their dogs in the heeling position. Under the direction of the judge, the handler and dog will go through the heeling exercise (on or off leash) according to the IGP rules. No gun shots are to be fired. In addition, the judge must verify the psychological condition of the dogs. The method is to be left up to the judge.
