Hunt Tests
Hunting Tests for Pointing Breeds were developed so people would have an opportunity to demonstrate a dogs ability to perform under actual hunting conditions. Judges should evaluate a dog’s natural abilities as well as those traits obtained through training.
Hunting Tests are for people of all ages, male and female and for dogs at least six months of age and older. The dogs are not being judged as in competition but against a standard designed to evaluate what each dog should be capable of doing to receive a passing score. Any child old enough to fire a blank pistol can run in hunting tests and any dog that is 6 months of age can run in either Junior, Senior or Master stakes. Dogs must be AKC registered or have an Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP) number in order to participate. ILP’s are for dogs that do not have official registration papers but are, or appear to be purebreds for the breed so named.
Hunting Tests for Pointers are great for those individuals who want to get their dogs out into the field, on birds and enjoy fine-tuning their abilities while participating under simulated, but very realistic natural hunting conditions. All this without the added expense of having to have horses, horse trailers in which to transport the animals. At Hunting Tests, the participants all root for each others dogs, and a real camaraderie exists at these events. A lot of “high fives” and just shaking each other’s hands on receiving a qualifying score.
Field Trials
Athleticism. Stamina. Courage. An instinct to go, go, go.
These qualities are the essence of the Pointing breed, and why they’re naturally superior hunters. As a dog owner, it’s important to consistently find new ways to stimulate your dog’s natural’s instincts. If you have a Pointing breed, training for and participating in a Pointing Field Trial (“competition”) is a perfect way to do it.
Pointing breed field trials allow a dog to work in the field and be judged in a competitive setting covering a lot of open ground in a short time. These trials allow dogs to display qualities like their keen desire to hunt, their intelligence, ability to find game, style and courage. Some trials will have handlers on horseback while others are considered a walking trial. Pointing Breed field trails are one of the oldest and most traditional of the field events and thousands of dogs have earned titles since its inception. When you and your dog compete, you’re not just having fun with your dog; you’re also carrying on a tradition rich with history and excitement.