Sporting Dogs –
Sporting Dogs In Competition
Sporting dogs are a group within the major kennel clubs, including the
American Kennel Club, The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom, as well as
the Canadian and Australian Kennel Clubs. The breeds that are contained
in the sporting dogs group include:
- Retrievers
- Setters
- Pointers
- Spaniels
- Weimaraner
- Wirehaired Griffon
- Spinone Italiano
These dogs are also informally known as hunting
dogs, gun dogs, water dogs or sometimes incorrectly as tracking dogs.
What sets this group apart from other breeds is that they were all bred
to assist hunters with some aspect of hunting game birds or, very
rarely, other small game. Originally the hunting was for necessity, but
over time it developed into hunting for sport. The group name, sporting
dogs, has evolved from this change.
Competitions
Most of the breeds within the sporting dogs group
have requirements for appearance and for temperament and ability.
Sporting dog competitions usually do not require that the dog be of
purebred standing to enter the competition, rather simply that the dog
can complete the requirements of the competition or trial event.
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Different Kennel Clubs and sporting dog
organizations hold these events across many different areas and
countries. The American Kennel Club has several different levels of
events, ranging from a Junior level to a Master level hunting
competition. Each dog must retrieve a set number of
“marks” or downed birds in a simulated hunt. The
dogs do not compete against one another, rather they compete
individually against a set standard. They are judged on a list of
factors and the dog with the highest overall score is the winner of the
event.
Field trials involve the dog having to find downed
game as well as locating scent trails. Both hounds and sporting dogs
often compete in field trials or events. The dogs have to find game
that is placed up to 450 yards away from the
“shooter” that simulates the action of a real
hunter. The dogs compete both against each other and against a set of
criteria. The handler works with the dog to help to give direction to
where the “mark” was thrown.
Sporting dogs that are very obedient and able to follow the
handler’s directions as well as use their own ability to see
and scent the game will be the most effective in the competition.
Not only is the sporting dog judged on his or her
ability to complete the required task, they are also evaluated on their
behavior, attitude, and ability to work with the owner or handler. If
you're interested in getting involved in sporting dog competitions,
contact your local association or plan to attend an event in your area.
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