The purpose of the Started Hunting Retriever Field Test is to bring the started dog along as a
hunter. Desire and cooperation with the handler are important factors.
The Started Field Test
consists of basic tests to evaluate the dog's natural and basic trained
abilities. The judges shall evaluate the dog' s temperament, as displayed
in its spontaneous behavior, in order to assess its suitability as a hunting
companion. Hyperactivity, wildness, jumping about, barking, excessive
disobedience, lethargy or lack of interest shall be marked down. Repeated
evidence shall be justification for elimination
The North American Hunting Retriever Association (NAHRA) Started Hunting
Retriever Test consists of only five single bird marks:
- Two single marked retrieves on land (maximum distance of 75 yards);
- Two single marked retrieves on water (maximum distance of 50 yards); and
- A fifth marked retrieve may be either land or water, at the discretion of the
judges.
- Dogs shall not be
required to honor another dog in this event
Steadiness at the point of origin is required. A leash, line or slip
lead may be used to keep the dog steady at the line. However, no dog is
allowed to make a retrieve while wearing a collar, leash, line or similar
device. A controlled break shall not fail a dog but shall be marked down.
Delivery of the bird to hand is not required. The dog must only
deliver the bird to within a reasonable radius of the point of origin, which is
easily accessible to the handler.
The dog should return to
the handler without delay. Moderate voice or whistle commands may be used.
Repeated evidence of delayed return or excessive voice and whistle commands may
be grounds for elimination.
A Started dog will usually
be cast from the point of origin only once. However, a second attempt or
"recast" may be granted if, in the judges' opinion, a dog exhibits confusion at
the point of origin. Also, if an initial misdirection is taken by a Started dog
and the handler immediately brings the dog back to heel, it may be given a
"recast". |
