The 2026 Judge Workshop focused on improving scoring consistency during the protection phase of IGP competitions.
Experienced judges from multiple regions participated in practical video analysis sessions and discussed common scoring variations observed during national events.
Workshop Objectives
Standardized Evaluation
The workshop emphasized the importance of applying identical evaluation criteria regardless of breed, handler experience, or competition level.
Grip Assessment
Judges reviewed examples of:
- Full grips
- Calm grips
- Regripping behavior
- Grip pressure consistency
Video examples were analyzed frame by frame to compare scoring decisions.
Guarding Behavior
Participants discussed:
- Correct guarding position
- Handler neutrality
- Barking intensity
- Focus on the helper
Special attention was given to distinguishing minor faults from major deductions.
Courage Test Review
Several examples of courage tests were reviewed to ensure judges apply deductions consistently when evaluating speed, commitment, and confidence.
Key Outcome
The workshop concluded that regular video-based calibration sessions significantly improve judging consistency and should become a standard part of continuing judge education.
All participants agreed to incorporate these evaluation principles into future certification and recertification programs.