The Level 3 Protection Dog Training course is the pinnacle of our protection training program, designed for handlers seeking to achieve the highest level of control and responsiveness in their protection dogs. This advanced course focuses on teaching your dog to bite on command, release on command, and perform precise recalls, all while remaining calm and under your control in high-stress situations. We emphasize safety and precision throughout this training, ensuring both handler and dog are equipped to handle real-world protection scenarios with confidence.

Prerequisites

While it is possible to start directly with Level 3, we strongly recommend completing Level 1 and Level 2 first. These foundational courses build critical skills such as threat assessment, controlled barking, and basic decoy interactions, which are essential for success in Level 3. Skipping these stages may leave gaps in your dog’s training, particularly in control and focus during protection work.

Training Approach

In Level 3, the focus shifts to advanced bite work and controlled responses, ensuring your dog can effectively protect while maintaining a full grip on the bite sleeve without shaking, tearing, or losing control. You will learn to give precise commands such as “bite,” “out,” and recall, emphasizing immediate and reliable compliance. This level of training requires a deep understanding of your dog’s body language, stress signals, and drive, ensuring they remain composed, confident, and focused throughout the exercises.

Course Highlights:

Advanced Bite Work on Command: Train your dog to bite on command with full grip control, focusing on holding the bite sleeve securely without shaking or ripping it apart. The goal is a firm, controlled grip that maintains safety for both the handler and the decoy.

Mastering the “Out” Command: Teach your dog to release the bite immediately upon your “out” command. This skill is crucial for maintaining control and preventing accidents during both training and real-world scenarios.

Recall Under Distraction: Perfect the recall command, ensuring your dog disengages from the bite and returns to your side promptly, even in high-pressure situations.

Safety and Control Techniques: Emphasize handler safety by teaching you the correct use of leads, harnesses, and muzzles. Learn how to position yourself correctly and maintain a safe environment during bite work exercises.

Understanding Fight or Flight: Gain insight into the fight-or-flight response, recognizing when your dog may feel stressed or unwilling to work. Learn how to manage these situations without forcing your dog, maintaining their confidence and willingness to engage.

Drive Management and Focus: Learn how to maintain your dog’s drive and focus, overcoming distractions that may arise during protection exercises. Understand how to use food, toys, and verbal cues to keep your dog motivated and ready to perform.

Decoy Safety Protocols: Understand the role of the decoy and the correct handling techniques to ensure the safety of all participants during bite work. This includes the proper use of bite sleeves and protective gear.

Equipment and Safety Focus:

Leads and Harnesses: Learn about the correct types of leads and harnesses needed for Level 3 training, ensuring maximum control and safety during exercises. We cover the use of strong, durable equipment suitable for advanced protection work.

Muzzles and Protective Gear: Understand the importance of using muzzles during initial bite work to prevent accidents and injuries. We teach you how to properly fit and use muzzles as part of the training process.

Proper Posture and Positioning: Learn the correct stance and positioning as a handler, helping you maintain control and stability when giving commands and managing your dog during bite work.

What You’ll Learn:

Advanced techniques for teaching your dog to bite and release on command with full grip control

How to handle and manage your dog’s drive, ensuring they remain calm, focused, and responsive in various scenarios

The skills necessary for reading your dog’s body language and stress signals to maintain a safe and productive training environment

Practical safety protocols for using leads, harnesses, muzzles, and bite sleeves effectively

How to engage with decoys safely and efficiently to simulate real-world protection scenarios

This comprehensive course includes in-depth video tutorials, hands-on exercises, and expert tips to guide you through the training process. The Level 3 Protection Dog Training course is designed to ensure your dog reaches the highest level of performance while prioritizing safety, control, and confidence.

Enroll today to master the advanced skills needed for an elite protection dog and build a strong, safe partnership with your canine companion!