Veteran police dog expert, Bernhard Flinks, talks to Kate Fairweather during a break at the UK’s National Police Dog Trials 2025.
A wide-ranging conversation with Bernhard, who spent over 40 years in the German police force.
Bernhard has been hugely successful in the uniquely German sport, “Schutzhund” (German for Protection Dog), also known as IGP. This is something of a triathlon for working dogs (tracking, obedience, protection)or working trials for protective breeds – notably German Shepherds but also the other main protection dog breeds. Schutzhund was given Intangible Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO in 2025.
Bernhard discusses cultural differences between training regimes in Germany and the UK. Also how approaches to training working dogs have evolved, particularly the balance between negative correction and positive reinforcement techniques.
Photo: photo of Bernanrd Flinks (www.Flinks.de).
More information from www.flinks.de.
Do you work your dog or dogs?
If you work your dog or dogs, or know someone else who does and would be interesting to be on the show, get in touch!
Kate Fairweather is obsessed with working dogs, and always loves hearing from theri owners and handlers. Get in touch on team@shineradio.uk.
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