The Schutzhund family tree
Schutzhund is the oldest label. IPO came later, and the international rules now use IGP. Think of them as successive names for one tradition of three-part trials: tracking, obedience and protection.
When a club says it runs IGP, it is almost certainly talking about this family.
Where PSA fits
PSA stands for Protection Sports Association, an organization based in the United States. Its events are known for scenario-style protection work and a different scoring approach from IGP. It is its own sport with its own rulebook, not a rename of Schutzhund.
Why one club may not do both
Because the rulebooks differ, clubs often specialize. A group that trains for IGP trials may not be set up for PSA, and the other way around. Equipment, field layout and judging all change.
A cheat sheet
- Schutzhund: older name for the same family as IGP.
- IPO: an intermediate name you may still see.
- IGP: the current name in international rules.
- PSA: a separate organization with its own sport.
General education only. Nothing here replaces hands-on guidance from a qualified, insured trainer or club, and nothing here is legal or veterinary advice. Rules differ by organization and by location.