Over the weekend of June 13–15, Meyerton Sports Club was abuzz with barking, cheering, and world-class athleticism — not from rugby players or parkrunners, but from elite working dogs competing in the IGP Dogsport National Championships, hosted by the German Shepherd Dog Federation of South Africa (GSDFSA).

IGP — short for Internationale Gebrauchshund Prüfungsordnung — is an international working dog sport that puts German Shepherds through their paces in tracking, obedience, and protection.

Originally developed in Germany, the sport tests a dog’s physical ability, intelligence, and character — from scent tracking to high-speed pursuit and discipline under pressure.

The event brought together handlers and dogs from across South Africa, all striving to show off their dog’s training and spirit. Judging the competition was Horst Dieter Träger, a top K9 trainer from German Customs, with Edris Fahi from the Netherlands serving as protection helper.

Although some locals were surprised by the cancellation of the Saturday parkrun and relocation of the club rugby matches to nearby Hoërskool Dr. Malan, it was all to make space for this internationallevel event — the first of its kind hosted at the sports club.

The weekend not only showcased skilled dogs but also highlighted a strong sense of community.

Clubs from all over the country came together to compete, support each other, and celebrate the working heritage of the German Shepherd dog.

The GSDFSA has been active since 1984, promoting responsible breeding and training of German Shepherds.

As a member of international bodies like the WUSV and SV, the Federation is putting South African dog sport firmly on the global map.