|
| |
| The purpose of CKC draft tests is to demonstrate a
dog's usefulness as a draft animal, reliable freighting companion and working. These
tests were originally developed to demonstrate the traditional carting and weight-pulling
skills of breeds such as Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs.CKC draft dog tests are
now open to all dogs of sufficient height and weight that are physically capable of
performing the exercises. There are tests for individual dogs and for a brace (2
dogs working as a team). |
 |
| At the beginning level (Draft Dog), the test
consists of 3 parts - Control, Carting and Field Work Exercises. The Control
Exercises consist of some basic obedience exercises (i.e. off-leash heeling, stand and
down stays) to demonstrate the dog's ability to be a safe and obedient companion and
worker. |
 |
The Carting Exercises are performed with the dog
in harness. The handler hitches the dogs to a cart or wagon, and the team then
perform a series of carting manoeuvers including turns, a figure 8 and backing up to
demonstrate his/her usefulness in hauling a wheeled vehicle safely and quietly over smooth
terrain. |
| The purpose of the Field Work Exercises is to
demonstrate the dog's ability to pull a freight load over a moderate distance in
cooperation with its handler. These exercises take place on natural terrain, with
sloping land, boulders, high grass and/or trees forming natural obstacles. dog is
also asked to pull a freight load over rougher terrain, which includes natural obstacles.
The dog may be hitched to a cart or wagon or the harness may be attached directly
to the load weighing approximately 18 kgs. The team move the load through simple
manoeuvers over a variety of terrain including gentle hills over a distance of
approximately 200 m. |
| At the Excellent level, the Carting Exercises are
performed with a 27 kg load. The handler must also direct the dog from behind the cart or
wagon. The Field Work Exercise consists of a freight haul over rough terrain with a
load of 18 to 27 kg. The course is 400 to 500 m and includes small hills and
an obstacle such as a gate that requires help from the handler. |
 |
 |
Backpacking Exercises are also included at the
Excellent level, demonstrating the ability of the dog to function as a pack animal.
The dog must carry a 2 day supply of dog food and other items up to 1/6 of the dog's
weight up to a maximum of 11 kg. Once the dog is packed, the team travel an 800 m
course over rough terrain, that could include fallen trees, fordable streams and steep
hills. The team will also enounter a distraction in the form of another dog, on
leash with handler. |
|
Top of Page