Gundog Field Tests - an introduction

An introduction to Gundog Field Tests. What they are, who runs them, and how they 'fit in' to the gundog training process.

 

Interesting!
In the US, they are called "Hunt Tests" with a similar "standards" that must be
acceptable for the retriever to "qualify". Once a retriever has qualified a number of
hunt tests, he/she gets a title.

In the US, hunt tests vary somewhat depending whether they are NAHRA
(North American Hunting Retriever Association), HRC (Hunting Retriever Club),
or AKC (American Kennel Club). Upper level NAHRA includes upland quartering, sit to flush,
trailing, as well as waterfowl testing (marks and blinds). Upper level AKC Master Hunter
is marks/blinds but can be very technical with water triple marks and double water blinds
up to 150 meters.

US hunt tests are typically more waterfowl oriented than UK field tests.
My impression is that UK tests, the dogs steadiness and quiet
is also very important.

 

Oh yes, steadiness and quiet are of paramount importance. The slightest whine or other sound is an immediate disqualification. Is that not the case in your tests?