The purpose of a field trial is to as
closely as possible simulate a day of hunting by having the
dogs complete a series of retrieves using shotguns firing
blanks and dead birds. During the trial dogs compete against
other dogs with a similar level of training until there is a
winner
Junior or
Derby
This is the Beginners level
where dogs are under 2 years of age, they will be expected to
be able to complete both single and double retrieves on both
land and water. A single retrieve is where one bird is
thrown and retrieved and a double is where 2 birds are thrown
and retrieved, forcing the dog to remember the location of the
first bird. Dogs are allowed to be brought to the line
(starting position ) on a leash
Qualifying
This is open
to all dogs who have not won the maximum number of wins in
this stake. The dog will be expected to demonstrate its
mastery of singles and doubles. Triples and blinds will also
be added to the tests. Blinds are where a bird is placed
before the dog is brought to the line . The dog is then sent
to retrieve the bird using whistle and hand signals to guide
it . At this level the dog is brought to the line without a
leash or collar
Amateur
Open
This is open to all dogs with
amateur handlers . At this level the dog will have mastered
all types of retrieves and will also be required to sit at
heel while another dog completes a retrieve
Open
This class is open to all dogs and handlers both amateur and professional the tests are the same as above
