American Schutzhund’s BTX, offers handlers the opportunity to get their BT with an added protection phase. All dogs must be a minimum of 15 months.
BTX Overview:
The BTX, like the BT, is a prerequisite for advancing forward to AS titles and certain independent certifications, including Stadium Only and Independent Obedience. It consists of four parts:
1. Dog Aggression Test (one time test that must be passed in order to proceed)
2. Obedience Test (same as BT)
3. Protection Phase
4. Environmental Evaluation
Key Requirements:
Dog/handler teams can choose either a BT or a BTX as their pathway. Dogs must be a minimum of 15 months old.
If choosing the BTX, both the obedience and protection phase must be passed in order to receive a BTX certification. The BTX certification cannot be broken up; For example, if a team passes the obedience phase but fails the protection phase, the team must re-do both the obedience and protection phases at another time.
Special Considerations:
Dog/handler teams with a BT who wish to earn a BTX, must participate in and pass both the obedience and protection phases.
If the BTX is failed, but a BT has already been earned prior, the team can still advance.
Teams with an Independent Environment Evaluation:
To earn a BTX, both the obedience and protection phase will need to be passed in order to complete the BTX certification. For those wanting to do a BT instead of the BTX, only the obedience portion of the BT needs to be passed in order to complete the BT certification. Again, once the dog aggression test and environmental evaluations are completed, they are not to be repeated.
For more information on the BTX, please refer to the following resources. These resources will provide valuable insights into the BTX requirements and expectations.
Trial Paperwork:
View the judge's sheets to understand the testing criteria. AS judges evaluate various genetic factors, including grip and gripping behavior.
Rule Book:
Access the rules for the BTX under the main menu.
BTX Video:
Watch the BTX on the American Schutzhund YouTube Channel
https://youtu.be/JU0g82SkQrk?si=2Acf8naexP4CKqvJ
Helpful Tips:
During the protection phase, handlers can choose to sit or stand during the aggression reaction portion of the test.