Difference Between IGP 1 2 and 3

Understanding IGP and Why Levels Matter

IGP is a structured working dog sport built around tracking, obedience, and protection. Handlers move through clear levels that increase in difficulty and proof. If you want to know the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3, you are asking the right question, because your plan, your standards, and your results depend on it. At Smart Dog Training, we guide teams through each stage using the Smart Method so dogs perform with clarity, motivation, and trust. Every certified Smart Master Dog Trainer SMDT teaches this progression the same way nationwide.

In simple terms, the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is the complexity and reliability expected under pressure. Each level raises the bar across all three phases. Tracks get longer and more technical. Obedience demands more precision and steadiness. Protection adds search patterns, stronger neutrality, and stricter control. When you know the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 in detail, you can build a training plan that moves you forward without guesswork.

The Difference Between IGP 1 2 and 3

All three levels test the same core phases, but criteria scale up. Here is the high view of the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 so you can orient your training:

• IGP 1 focuses on foundation skills proven in a trial setting. Expect shorter tracks, fundamental obedience, and basic protection routines with strong emphasis on control.
• IGP 2 increases distance, difficulty, and distraction. Precision and steadiness are tested more often. Mistakes cost more points.
• IGP 3 is the standard of reliability. The dog must perform with accuracy anywhere, under more complex tracks, stricter obedience, and full protection routines.

By understanding the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 at this level, you can choose goals that match your dog’s age, nerve, and current training.

How Scoring Works Across Levels

Each IGP phase is scored to 100 points, for a total of 300. The difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is not only what the dog must do, but how tight the judging feels. A small loss of precision at IGP 1 might be a one point penalty. At IGP 3, the same error can cascade because the routines keep flowing and errors compound. Smart Dog Training prepares dogs to meet criteria cleanly so they do not bleed points for preventable mistakes.

Tracking Progression From IGP 1 to IGP 3

Tracking is where many teams either build confidence or fall behind. The difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 shows up clearly on the field.

Track Length and Layout

• IGP 1 uses a shorter track with fewer legs. It is designed to test a clean line, calm nose, and article indication.
• IGP 2 lengthens the track and adds complexity. Corners and distances challenge the dog’s concentration and pace control.
• IGP 3 extends distance, adds more legs and corners, and is often aged longer before running. This demands true independence and consistency.

Articles, Corners, and Surfaces

• Articles: IGP 1 sets the foundation with fewer articles. IGP 2 and IGP 3 add more articles and proofing for scent discrimination under stress.
• Corners: By IGP 3, corners are unforgiving. The dog must work methodically without handler help.
• Surfaces and aging: As you rise through levels, the dog must handle varied ground and older scent, which exposes holes in tracking routine.

In short, the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 in tracking is the jump from guided work to complete self control from the dog. The Smart Method builds that independence step by step using clarity, fair pressure and release, and strategic rewards.

Obedience That Scales With Each Level

Obedience is where spectators notice the polish, but judges notice the details. The difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is seen in precision, steadiness, and proofing under distraction.

Heeling, Positions, and Retrieves

• Heeling: All levels demand attentive, energetic heeling. At IGP 3, any flicker of attention shift can cost points because the routine flows with fewer pauses.
• Positions: Sit, down, and stand on command must be fast, clean, and correct the first time. Higher levels stress speed without anticipation.
• Retrieves: Distances and weights progress. The dog must show a committed, straight send, a firm controlled grip, a direct return, and a clean front with calm hold and finish.

Jumps and Control

• Jumping: As levels rise, the dog must repeat jumps with identical quality. Skimming, touching, or crooked sits can be costly at IGP 3.
• Impulse control: Heeling past distraction, holding positions under pressure, and waiting for precise cues is the hallmark of the top level.

The Smart Method uses short, focused drills with clear markers to create fast responses, then layers duration and distraction. This solves one of the biggest parts of the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 in obedience consistency under pressure.

Protection Work From IGP 1 to IGP 3

Protection demands control, neutrality, and confident engagement. The difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 becomes very clear here.

Search Patterns and Guarding

• Search: The dog must search designated blinds with a systematic pattern. At higher levels, the pattern and distances challenge focus and stamina.
• Guarding: The dog must show a full, calm guard with strong presence but no reactivity to the environment or helper movement.

Bites, Outs, and Transports

• Bites: The dog must grip calmly and full mouthed, then stay committed through pressure.
• Outs: A fast, clean out on first command is non negotiable at IGP 3. Any conflict or chewing can result in heavy deductions.
• Transports: Heeling the helper under control and maintaining position with a clear head is a core part of the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3.

Smart Dog Training coaches clean mechanics for the out and the guard using clarity and fair accountability. We rely on the Smart Method so dogs understand exactly how to turn pressure off and earn reward, which keeps confidence intact.

Temperament and Eligibility by Level

Not every dog should push to IGP 3. Nerves, resilience, environmental neutrality, and working motivation must be appropriate to the level. Knowing the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 helps you decide when to progress. Some dogs thrive by collecting solid IGP 1 and IGP 2 scores before moving to IGP 3. Others have the maturity to climb faster. Smart Master Dog Trainers SMDTs within Smart Dog Training assess each team and set a progression that suits the dog, not the calendar.

Handler Skills and Preparation

IGP is a team sport. The difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 often shows in the handler as much as the dog. Timing must be crisp. Trial handling must be calm. Proofing plans must be written and followed. Smart Dog Training teaches handlers to score the routine on video, then fix top scoring errors first. This is how you move from almost passing to confidently qualifying.

Ready to turn your dog’s behaviour around? Book a Free Assessment and connect with a certified Smart Master Dog Trainer, available across the UK.

The Smart Method Applied to IGP

Every Smart programme follows the Smart Method, and it is perfectly suited to the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3. Here is how the five pillars drive real progress.

• Clarity: Commands and markers are precise. Dogs know exactly when they are right or wrong, which speeds learning and reduces conflict.
• Pressure and Release: Fair guidance creates accountability while the release and reward maintain willing behaviour. This is essential for clean outs, stable guarding, and steady tracking.
• Motivation: Food, toys, and praise are used with intent so the dog wants to work hard without frantic energy.
• Progression: Criteria are increased step by step. We add distance, distraction, and duration only when the dog is ready, which is key to the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3.
• Trust: We build teams that rely on each other. Calm, consistent handling grows confidence that carries into trial day.

Building a Training Plan for IGP 1

Start with simple, measurable goals. At IGP 1, aim to pass with solid margins rather than chase style points. Focus on:

• Tracking: Straight lines, consistent pace, deep nose, clear article indication.
• Obedience: Fast positions on first cue, focused heeling, clean fronts and finishes, and calm holds.
• Protection: A clear out on first command, strong guarding without noise, and reliable transports.

When you grasp the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 at the start, you can build habits that scale later.

Raising Criteria for IGP 2

IGP 2 exposes gaps in steadiness and duration. To make the jump:

• Add aging to tracks. Proof corners with wind changes and ground variation.
• In obedience, reduce help and build longer stretches of heeling with the same energy. Repeat jumps with identical quality.
• In protection, sharpen the out and the re grips under more pressure, then add neutrality tests around the field.

At this stage, the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is felt in how often the routine tests control under arousal. Your dog must think and respond to precise cues while excited.

Reaching Reliability for IGP 3

IGP 3 is about confidence and consistency anywhere. The routine is unforgiving, and the dog must own the work. To prepare:

• Tracking: Build independence. Remove handler influence. Vary aging, terrain, and contamination. Strengthen article indication with calm, clear behaviour.
• Obedience: Polish transitions. Aim for the same picture every rep. Small details like straight sits become the difference between scores.
• Protection: Proof every piece. Outs must be automatic. Guarding must be full and quiet. Transports must be precise even after high arousal.

At this level, the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is the standard you demand in training. Smart Dog Training sets that standard so trial day feels routine.

Common Mistakes When Moving Up

• Rushing criteria: Jumping too fast hides the real difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 until trial day.
• Training only the routine: Dogs must understand principles, not just patterns. Change the picture often so they think with you.
• Ignoring recovery: Overwork leads to frustration. Short sessions with clear goals work best.
• Skipping control: Fast work without clear outs, fronts, or finishes will not hold at IGP 2 and IGP 3.

Equipment and Safe Practice

Use well fitted collars, long lines, and harnesses for tracking. Use safe retrieves and regulated jumps. Protection must be trained under professional supervision with appropriate equipment and field setup. Smart Dog Training keeps safety first while shaping the precise pictures demanded by the sport. This is part of the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 that many teams overlook the way you train must match the level you seek.

Choosing Your Dog’s Path

Young dogs can set foundations for the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 early, but formal trial work should match age and maturity. Many dogs benefit from a season at IGP 1 to build confidence. Others move faster with a clear plan. Smart Dog Training will evaluate temperament, drive, and resilience, then recommend the right timeline for your team.

How Smart Dog Training Supports Your IGP Journey

Smart delivers structured, results focused programmes from first lessons to advanced sport work. Through the Smart Method, your SMDT coach will map your path, set weekly targets, and prepare you for trial day. Our national network offers in person coaching, behaviour support when needed, and advanced pathways including protection training. If you are serious about understanding the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 and turning that knowledge into results, we are ready to lead the way.

FAQs

What is the main difference between IGP 1 2 and 3?

The main difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is the step up in complexity, control, and reliability. Tracks are longer and older, obedience is tighter with fewer allowances, and protection requires cleaner outs, steadier guarding, and stronger neutrality.

How long does it take to move from IGP 1 to IGP 3?

It depends on your dog and your plan. With the Smart Method and regular coaching, many teams move from IGP 1 to IGP 3 over several trial cycles. The real difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 is the standard you hold in training and how well you proof that standard.

Does my dog need special genetics for IGP?

Strong nerves, balanced drives, and good health make the journey easier. Smart Dog Training will assess suitability and give you a clear, ethical plan. We will help you see the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 for your individual dog and set realistic goals.

What should I focus on first for IGP 1?

Focus on clarity and control. Build steady tracking with clean article indication, fast positions in obedience, and a reliable out in protection. These form the base that carries through the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3.

How do I avoid point loss at higher levels?

Film sessions and score yourself. Fix the top scoring errors first. Use the Smart Method to improve clarity and accountability. This approach closes the gap that makes up much of the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 on the score sheet.

Can Smart help me if I have trial nerves?

Yes. We coach handlers to control breathing, set pre ring routines, and rehearse under pressure. Calm handling protects points and supports your dog. Many handlers find this is the hidden difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 on trial day.

Is protection training safe for my dog?

Under professional guidance, yes. Smart Dog Training uses structured progressions, safe equipment, and ethical methods. Protection is always about control and clear behaviour pictures. That is how we meet the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 without risking your dog’s wellbeing.

Conclusion

If you want consistent results, you must know the difference between IGP 1 2 and 3 in practical terms. Tracks get older and longer. Obedience gets tighter and more precise. Protection demands steady control with confident engagement. Smart Dog Training builds these skills through the Smart Method so dogs understand the work and deliver under pressure. Whether you are starting at IGP 1 or preparing for IGP 3, our SMDTs will map each step, coach your handling, and turn training into reliable performance.

Your dog deserves training that truly works. With certified Smart Master Dog Trainers SMDTs nationwide, you'll get proven results backed by the UK's most trusted dog training network. Find a Trainer Near You