Federico Pongelli
Affixed Owner F.C.I.: Altengarde
Helper F.C.I. – E.N.C.I. – F.K.SH. – A.I.A.D. – S.A.S. – B.C.I. – C.A.P.B. – S.A.C.C.
The Albanian Kennel Federation (F.K.SH) intends to introduce new technical sports activities to highlight and develop dogs’ abilities in the FCI disciplines BH, ZTP, IGP, and FH. It aims to provide its members and enthusiasts with a fully equipped arena for these activities.
In addition to morphological exhibitions, this will allow the development of tests and certifications that help better evaluate, from a zootechnical perspective, the breed’s character and working aptitude. These evaluations are essential for improving and guiding genetic selection and breed typicality.
The arena will be equipped for training and certification in ZTP and IGP, with six revier blinds, drive sleeves, a scaling wall, a high jump, and dumbbells, all in accordance with FCI regulations. A certified helper will be present for training in Section C (attack).
Furthermore, specific training courses and seminars will be organized to enhance the cultural and professional development of dog handlers, following modern training methodologies. Regular courses and seminars will be held on search and tracking for IGP 1–2–3, FH 1–2–3, and IGP-FH, with the possibility of examinations conducted by FCI-certified judges.
Federico Pongelli
Affixed Owner F.C.I.: Altengarde
Helper F.C.I. – E.N.C.I. – F.K.SH. – A.I.A.D. – S.A.S. – B.C.I. – C.A.P.B. – S.A.C.C.
Kristina Shvets
RKF dog trainer, handler, and breeder with Casa Kalinas affix
Piero Valentini
Helper F.C.I. – E.N.C.I. – S.A.S. – B.C.I. – C.A.P.B. – S.A.C.C.
Sara Guiducci
Leading Doberman handler
Luigi Lorato
E.N.C.I. Dog Trainer and Handler
Dario Como
E.N.C.I. Dog Trainer and Handler
Over the past few years, as our Federation has developed, the need has emerged to establish a dedicated “work area” managed by a team of professionals with expertise in utility work and protection.
This new project aims to enhance the profile of our Federation and, above all, to meet the growing demand for working trials aimed at improving the genetic pool of the breeds subjected to these tests, such as BH/VT, ZTP, and IGP 1–2–3.
In addition to this important objective, this team will organize trials and events intended to increase sporting activities (IGP) open to all breeds without restriction.
Mr. Federico Pongelli, as National Training Manager, will be supported by a technical team whose role will be not only to structure an event program but, above all, to propose strategies to grow and strengthen this movement. The technical team will also be able to propose and support new initiatives and scheduled events.
Mr. Piero Valentini and Mr. Federico Pongelli are F.C.I. helpers with an impressive track record and can be appointed for official trials.
Ms. Kristina Shvets is a leading trainer, handler, and breeder of Dobermans with a world-class career, including several IDC world titles as both breeder and handler.
Ms. Sara Guiducci, a leading Doberman handler, and Mr. Luigi Lorato will not only be part of the committee but will also lead a youth project aimed at further enhancing our prestigious program.
Mr. Dario Como, a handler who has participated in three IFR World Championships and two Italian Championships with his Rottweiler, will serve as a liaison for planning activities.
The program, which will be presented by December 20, 2025, will support selection trials for breeds wishing to establish themselves in Albania. Two dates are planned during which competitors will be able to take a multi-day test consisting of BH/VT, IGP 1–2–3, and ZTP for Dobermans. These tests, including the final exams, are open to all dog breeds.
Finally, ad hoc seminars will be organized for all breeds and all working trials, ensuring that every need can be met — including the presence of leading international FCI-certified working judges.
The goal of our Federation is not only to strengthen the synergy between the working world and the show world but also to recognize canine sporting activities as an absolute value, regardless of breed, always in accordance with FCI regulations and with the absolute prerogative of sport and equal freedom of participation. This new work-dedicated area boasts a team of serious, qualified, and experienced professionals capable of supporting any working requirement for any breed.