Trial Rules
Hunting Test Regulations and
Procedures
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GLOSSARY
Chapter
I General
Regulations and Procedures for CBSRC Hunting
Tests
Chapter
II
Hunting Trial Chairman
Chapter
III
Equipment Manager
Chapter
IV
Game Steward
Chapter
V Field
Trial Committee
Chapter
VI
Stakes
Chapter
VII
Eligibility
Chapter
VIII Regulations
and Minimum Test Requirements for Junior Puppy
Stake
Chapter
IX Regulations
and Minimum Test Requirements for Senior Puppy Stake
Chapter X
Regulations
and Minimum Test Requirements for Novice Stake
Chapter
XI Regulations
and Minimum Test Requirements for Intermediate
Stake
Chapter
XII
Regulations and Minimum Test Requirements for Open
Stake
CHAPTER
I
GENERAL REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES
FOR
CBSRC FIELD TRIALS
SECTION
1. The purpose of a
field trial for retrievers is to determine their relative merits in the field.
Tests should simulate as nearly as possible the conditions met in a day's
shoot. Dogs are expected to retrieve any type game bird under all conditions.
SECTION
2. The function of
a non-slip retriever is to seek and retrieve fallen game when ordered to do so.
He should sit quietly on line or in the blind, walk at heel, or assume any
position designated by his handler until sent to retrieve. When ordered, a dog
should retrieve quickly and without disturbing too much ground, and should
deliver tenderly to hand. He should then await further orders.
SECTION
3. Dogs shall be
judged on their natural abilities as well as abilities acquired through
training, including steadiness, control, response to direction and delivery.
Dogs should also be judged for their natural abilities, including memory,
intelligence, attention, nose, courage, perseverance and style.
SECTION
4. A "test" shall be
defined for these purposes as the evaluation of a dog as required by the
Regulations and Procedures and during which the dog is being scored.
SECTION
5. There will be a
designated area at each event where handlers may air their dogs.
SECTION
6. Dogs must be kept
on a leash and under control at all times unless the dog is being aired in a
designated area. Dogs are prohibited from buildings at a CBSRC event.
SECTION
7. The term "dog"
includes male and female dogs.
SECTION
8. Females in
season will not be permitted on the test grounds.
SECTION
9. All tests shall
be judged by two judges.
A.
The judges are representatives of the CBSRC and shall abide by the Regulations
herein.
B.
Duck blinds, numerous decoys, boats, game calls, and other hunting implements
shall be utilized when
appropriate.
C.
Judges shall decide on the placement of the gunners and bird boys.
D. Handlers,
bird boys, gunners, judges and others shall be required to wear camouflaged
or
dark clothing.
E.
A judge shall not judge any family member or their dog at a CBSRC field
trial.
F.
Events shall utilize dead pheasants, pigeons, ducks or other game birds.
Exception: live birds may be
used for fly away, shot fliers and flushed birds
G.
The CBSRC considers the judging of dogs to be an art and not a
science.
H.
Events shall utilize dead pheasants, pigeons, ducks or other game
birds.
Exception: live birds may be used for fly away, shot fliers and flushed
birds.
SECTION
10. No dog shall be entered or
run in any hunting test, and if brought on to the test ground, shall be
immediately removed, if it shows any symptoms of or is known to have been in
contact with any communicable diseases within the 30 days immediately preceding
the date of the hunting test.
SECTION
11. Prior to the start of each
test, the judges shall explain to the handlers the hunting scenario and the
object of each test and expected performance of the dogs. (CBSRC's purpose in
establishing these Regulations and Procedures is to discover and reward dogs
that can fulfill the hunter's needs in the field while performing in a manner
consistent with the demands of actual hunting conditions. The purpose is to
test the dog's natural as well as trained abilities.)
SECTION
12. Unless otherwise instructed
by the judges, dogs should be considered as being tested from the time they are
called to come to the point of origin until they have left same and are behind
the judges on a leash.
SECTION
13. A dog is to be released by
the handler on the judges command unless otherwise instructed by the judge.
SECTION
14. Voice or whistle commands
shall be allowed to steady the dog at the point of origin. However, voice or
whistle commands that are excessive in the opinion of the judges shall be
marked down.
SECTION
15. Handling on marks
regardless of category shall be the handler's option but to do so shall require
a mark down.
SECTION
16. The judges of a particular
category shall have the authority to expel a handler from any further
participation in that category if they observe unsportsmanlike conduct on the
part of the handler or see the handler kicking, striking, or otherwise
manhandling a dog while on the hunting grounds. It shall be the duty of the
judges to promptly report to the hunting test committee the expulsion of a
handler from a category. The hunting test committee may then expel the handler
from all other categories at the event if, in the committee's opinion, such
further action is warranted. Whenever a handler is expelled from a category or
from participation at a hunting test under this section, the dog or dogs that
he is handling may continue to be tested with another handler. The hunting test
committee shall submit in writing to the Board of Directors a complete report
of any action taken under this section.
SECTION
17. Handlers must not allow
their dogs to view the test of any stake in which their dog is entered prior to
coming to the line with said dog. Violation of this section is grounds for
elimination.
SECTION
18. All firearms are assumed to
be loaded with live ammunition and must be handled accordingly. The handler
must hold the firearm in a safe hunting position. Mishandling of firearms will
result in immediate disqualification. It shall be the duty of the judges to
promptly report to the hunting test committee the expulsion of a handler from a
category. The hunting test committee may then expel the handler from all other
categories at the event if in the committee's opinion, such further action is
warranted. Whenever a handler is expelled from a category or from participation
at a hunting test under this section, the dog or dogs that he is handling may
continue to be tested with another handler. The hunting test committee shall
submit in writing to the Board of Directors a complete report of any action
taken under this section.
SECTION
19. Incidents of intentional
hard mouth or stickiness resulting, in the opinion of the judges, in a bird
unfit for the table, shall be grounds for failing a test. The dog should pick
up a bird tenderly but firmly and without delay. A dog shall be eliminated for
hard mouth or badly damaged game, but before doing so, both judges should
inspect the bird and be satisfied that the dog alone was responsible for the
damage. A dog that drops the bird more than necessary to get a better grip
shall be marked down. The dog should pick up a bird tenderly but firmly, and
most importantly, without hesitation and without dispatch. Hovering over a bird
shall be marked down. The dog should not drop a bird for any reason except to
get a better grip; a dog that drops a bird to shake shall be marked down.
SECTION
20. Dogs requiring help from
the bird boys shall be disqualified. Stone or object throwing is not allowed.
SECTION
21. All persons participating
in or observing any event are expected to maintain reasonable silence and
display good manners. Any person who interferes with the orderly process of any
test may be requested by the judges or the hunting test committee to leave the
hunting test grounds.
SECTION
22. A judge shall not be
required to discuss his or her judging evaluations with any participant. The
decision of the judges shall be final.
SECTION
23. Handlers shall not point
out the location of a gunner and bird boys to the dog prior to the time the
first bird is thrown. A violation of this section will result in elimination.
(Exception: Junior and Senior Puppy.)
SECTION
24. Dogs will be eliminated for
unprovoked fighting or attacking handlers, participants, spectators, judges or
CBSRC officers. Dogs that are disqualified under this section must be
immediately confined or removed from the hunting test grounds. It shall be the
duty of the judges to promptly report to the hunting test committee the
expulsion of a dog from a category. The hunting test committee may then expel
the dog from all other categories at that event if, in the committee's opinion,
such further action is warranted. The hunting test committee shall submit in
writing to the Board of Directors a complete report of any action taken under
this section.
SECTION
25. In the Senior Puppy,
Novice, Intermediate and Gun Dog stakes, hidden gunners and bird boys shall be
used unless they are at the point of origin. When hidden gunners and bird boys
are used, an attention getting shot or shots shall be fired or a game call
shall be blown prior to each bird being thrown and additionally, a shot fired
when each bird is at the top of its arc. At the discretion of the judges, but
no more than once in each event, the gunners may be visible in order to
stimulate specific situations such as dove hunting. It is the intent of these
Regulations to provide the dog with adequate opportunity to focus its attention
on the area of the fall.
SECTION
26. A "re-cast" may be granted
if an initial misdirection is taken by a dog and the handler immediately brings
the dog back to heel to re-cast. A re-cast shall never be granted to a dog that
goes out into the field, establishes a hunt, doesn't find the bird and returns
to its handler. This is grounds for elimination rather than another chance.
Re-casts are allowed in the Junior Puppy, Senior Puppy and Novice stakes
only.
SECTION
27. A "no-bird" will be
determined solely by the judges of the testing category, e.g., a flyer that is
unintentionally missed by the gunners or a bird that sinks during a water test,
etc.
SECTION
28. A "re-run" may be granted if
in the opinion of the judges, an unfair or unforeseen circumstance occurs
during the test such as a "no-bird".
SECTION
29. A "controlled break" occurs
as soon as a dog leaves the point of origin and manifests an intent to make the
retrieve without being so ordered and is immediately stopped and brought under
control.
SECTION
30. "Creeping" should not be
considered as a dog manifesting an intent to retrieve. Therefore, "creeping"
shall not be considered a break and the judges shall not instruct the handler
to re-heel the dog. However, if the creeping is excessive where it takes the
dog out of the area of the point of origin, then it should be considered a
controlled break and the handler should be required to control his/her dog. The
judges should designate the area of the point of origin and advise the handlers
of this designated area before the test begins.
SECTION
31. Dogs participating in
Junior Puppy, Senior Puppy and Novice stakes may wear a collar, provided said
collar is made of nylon or leather. Dogs participating in the Intermediate and
Gun Dog categories are not allowed to wear any type of collar. Leash or line
dragging in any stake is prohibited. (The intent of these Regulations is to
protect the dogs rather than restrict their handlers.)
SECTION
32. When at the point of origin,
the handler shall not possess any exposed training aid that might intimidate
the dog (including but not limited to leash, lead, whip, quirt, cane, prod or
similar implements) or indulge in any behavior that may in any way intimidate
the dog.
SECTION
33. These printed guidelines
supersede any printed prior.
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CHAPTER II
HUNTING TEST CHAIRMAN
A. The
responsibilities of the Field Trial Chairman are as follows:
1. Secure
adequate grounds to hold a field trial. Secure portable restrooms if
needed.
2.
Deliver to the CBSRC Secretary detailed directions and a map at least six weeks
prior to the scheduled field trial date.
3.
Select judges, marshals, bird boys and arrange for lunch-time meals.
4. Secure
required birds for the field trial. Once the birds are delivered to the field
trial grounds the Game Steward will assume responsibility for the handling of
the birds and the delivery of the dispatched birds to the judges of the various
stakes.
5.
Coordinate with the Equipment Manager to confirm that all equipment will be
available to stage the field trial. Such equipment would include, but not
limited to, bird cages, guns, poppers, dove stools, blinds, boats, life
preservers, paddles, decoys, waders, duck calls, pencils, scoring sheets, spray
paint, etc.
CHAPTER
III
EQUIPMENT MANAGER
A. The
Equipment Manager's responsibilities are as follows:
1. Taking
care of all club equipment and making sure it is available at every field
trial.
2. Issuing
all necessary equipment to the judges and explaining to the judges that it is
their responsibility to return all equipment to the Equipment Manager at the
end of the field trial
3.
Seeing that all equipment is accounted for at the end of each field
trial.
CHAPTER
IV
GAME STEWARD
A. A
Game Steward may be appointed by the Board of Directors to oversee the humane
treatment and dispatch of birds used in the field trial. The Game Steward will
be responsible for the birds once they arrive on the field trial grounds, but
not responsible for providing birds for the tests.
CHAPTER
V
FIELD TRIAL COMMITTEE
A. The
Field Trial Committee will be composed of three members of the Board of
Directors and up to five members at large appointed by the Board. The Field
Trial Committee as appointed by the Board will serve a one year term beginning
with the August trial and ending with the following June trial.
B.
It is the responsibility of the Field Trial Committee to oversee club field
trials.
C.
All tests must be approved by at least one member of the Field Trial Committee
before any dogs are run.
D.
Once a test has been approved, judges will maintain full responsibility for
conducting the test and their decisions are final.
E.
Judges, marshals, and club members should report anyone found in violation of
club policies to the Field Trial Committee.
CHAPTER
VI
STAKES
A.
Stakes are to be offered as follows:
1. Junior Puppy - pups up
to six months of age.
2. Senior Puppy -
pups from six to twelve months of age.
3. Novice -
young dogs not yet ready for intermediate and have not accumulated over 15
points based on the 54321 system, and for new members with older dogs that have
not been entered before in a field trial.
4. Intermediate
- any age dog that has not accumulated more than 25 points based on the 54321
system in this class.
5. Open
- any age dog may compete in this class
CHAPTER
VII
ELIGIBILITY
A. CBSRC
members and non-members are eligible to participate in CBSRC field trials.
However, in order to accumulate dog of the year points both the owner and
handler must be a member of the CBSRC.
B.
Only full blooded/pure bred Boykin Spaniels are eligible to compete at CBSRC
field trials and accumulate points toward Championship status or Dog of The
Year awards.
C.
A minimum of three entries that compete, are required in a stake to award
championship or dog of the year points. In the event that a stake has less than
three entries that compete, ribbons only will be awarded.
D.
After the conclusion of the June trial each year, the CBSRC will recognize the
dog of the year to the high point and runner up high point dog in each stake.
E.
Dog of the year points will be kept separately from and in addition to the
Championship points. Dogs will be awarded 5 points for first place, 4 points
for second place, 3 points for third place, 2 points for fourth place, and 1
point for a completion.
F.
The Puppy Stakes are divided into Junior and Senior categories. A Junior Puppy
is defined as pup that is six months of age or under on the day of the field. A
Senior Puppy is defined as a pup twelve months of age or under on the day of
the field. G. H.
G.
A puppy that is under six months of age may enter in both the Junior and Senior
Stakes at the same field trial. Dog of the year points will be recorded based
on the single highest ribbon earned.
H.
Once a dog has earned 15 points based on the 54321 system in Novice, it will
have to move up to a higher class, but may remain in Novice to compete for the
Dog of The Year award for the remainder of that club year. These points are
cumulative for each year the dog is competed.
I.
In the Intermediate stake, a dog is eligible to compete until he has earned 25
points based on the 54321 system, and may remain in the Intermediate stake the
remainder of the club year to compete for the Dog of The Year award. These
points are cumulative for each year the dog is competed.
J.
Any dog is eligible to enter the Open stake.
K.
The CBSRC will award the title "Champion Hunter" to any Boykin Spaniel that has
earned a minimum of 100 points. Points toward this title are awarded as
follows: Novice Stake ribbon is equal to 2½ points; Intermediate Stake
ribbon is equal to 5 points; and Open Stake ribbon is equal to 7 points. A
maximum of 15 points may be earned in the Novice Stake, and a maximum of 25
points in the Intermediate Stake. The additional 60 points required must be
earned in the Open Stake. It is possible for all points to be earned in the
Open Stake.
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CHAPTER
VIII
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST
REQUIREMENTS
FOR JUNIOR PUPPY STAKES
NOTE: The passages enclosed
in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges. SECTION 1. SECTION 2.
SECTION
1. Puppies
that have not surpassed their sixth month birthday on the day of the event may
compete in this category.
SECTION
2. Tests will
consist of a minimum of three simple single land marked retrieves. Water
retrieves are prohibited.
SECTION
3. Maximum
test distances are not to exceed 20 yards.
SECTION
4. Tests
should be run in very low cover. (Every effort should be made for birds/bumpers to be
visible to pups at all times.)
SECTION
5. Pigeons or bumpers
only are to be used in this stake.
SECTION
6. Pups may
be restrained at the point of origin without penalty.
SECTION
7. Handlers
may point out the birds/bumpers boys prior to the birds being thrown.
SECTION
8. Firearms
will not be used in this stake.
SECTION
9. Hand
delivery is not required in this stake. However, pups must deliver the bird/bumper
within a reasonable radius of the point of origin.
SECTION
10. Pups may be cast from
the point of origin no more than twice. (If the pup is "re-cast", see Chapter
1, Section 26, it shall be marked down. After two unsuccessful attempts, the
judges must inform the handler that he/she is no longer in contention, but time
permitting, every effort will be made to allow the pup an opportunity to
participate in additional retrieves for practice.)
SECTION
11. Prior to each mark
being thrown, duck calls or voice shall be used as an attention getting device
(extra effort should be made to ensure pups get a good look at the
falls).
CHAPTER
IX
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST
REQUIREMENTS
FOR SENIOR PUPPY STAKE
NOTE: The passages enclosed
in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION
1. Puppies that have
not surpassed their twelfth month birthday on the day of the event may compete
in this stake.
SECTION
2. Tests will
consist of a minimum of three simple single marked retrieves. (Water retrieves
are encouraged, weather permitting, but should not be required under harsh
conditions.)
SECTION
3. Maximum
test distances are as follows; land retrieves are not to exceed 40 yards and
water retrieves are not to exceed 30 yards.
SECTION
4. Tests
should be run in low cover.
SECTION
5. Pigeons only are
to be used in this stake.
SECTION
6. Pups may be
restrained at the point of origin without penalty.
SECTION
7. Handlers
may point out the bird boys prior to the birds being thrown.
SECTION
8. Pups will
not be required to retrieve from a boat or through decoys.
SECTION
9. A blank
pistol or a single shot shotgun with primer may be fired from the point of
origin by the judges. Shots should be fired from the retrieving line rather
than from behind the dog and handler. (See Chapter I, Section 25)
SECTION
10. Hand delivery is not
required in this stake. However, pups must deliver the bird within a reasonable
radius of the point of origin.
SECTION
11. Pups may be cast
from the point of origin no more than twice. (If the pup is "re-cast", see
Chapter 1, Section 26, it shall be marked down. After two unsuccessful
attempts, the judges must inform the handler that he/she is no longer in
contention, but time permitting, every effort will be made to allow the pup to
participate in additional retrieves for practice.)
SECTION
12. Prior to each mark
being thrown, duck calls or voice shall be used as an attention getting device.
(Extra effort should be made to insure pups get a good look at the
falls.)
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CHAPTER X
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST
REQUIREMENTS
FOR NOVICE STAKE
NOTE: The passages enclosed in
parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION
1. Any age dog that
has not pointed out of this class may compete in this stake. This class is
primarily for new members with dogs that have never entered a field trial or
for dogs that have aged out of the puppy class and are not yet ready for the
Intermediate class.
SECTION
2. A Novice Field
Trial shall consist of a minimum of four single bird marking tests at least one
of which shall be marked a water retrieve and at least two of which shall be
marked land retrieves. The fourth marked retrieve may be either on land or
water. (The purpose of a Novice field trial is to bring young or started dogs
along as hunters. Desire and cooperation with the handler are important
factors. It should consist of simple tests to evaluate the dog's natural
abilities, assess the ability of the dog to follow the flight of a bird to the
area of the fall, ability to go directly to the area of the fall, retrieve the
bird and return to the handler. When back to back marks are thrown from the
same retrieving line, judges should make every effort to assure wide separation
between the falls.)
SECTION
3. Maximum
test distances are as follows: land retrieves are not to exceed 75 yards and
water retrieves are not to exceed 60 yards.
SECTION
4. Tests in this
stake should be run in moderate cover.
SECTION
5. Pigeons
and/or ducks only are to be used in this stake.
SECTION
6. A dog should be
steady at the point of origin; however, it may have a flat buckle collar and/or
slip line around its neck and/or may be held by one hand to assist in achieving
steadiness. Dogs that are restrained shall be penalized a one point deduction
per occurrence. (See Chapter I, Section 31)
SECTION
7. A controlled
break shall not fail a dog but shall result in a one point score reduction per
occurrence. (As soon as the dog manifests intent to make the retrieve without
being so ordered, it must be stopped. If a dog is immediately brought under
control, it shall be considered a controlled break which is a minor infraction
in this category.)
SECTION
8. An
uncontrolled break shall not fail a dog but shall result in a three point score
reduction per occurrence. (The judges should 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.)
SECTION
9. Handlers
are not allowed to point out the bird boys or gunners prior to the bird being
thrown. (Violation of this section is a major infraction and is grounds for
elimination. See Chapter I, Section 23.)
SECTION
10. A Novice dog is not
required to deliver to hand. However, the dog must deliver the bird within a
reasonable radius of the point of origin which is easily accessible to the
handler. Therefore, it is not appropriate to require the dog to deliver the
bird into a boat or blind. (The dog should return to its handler without
delay.)
SECTION
11. A dog may be urged to
hunt by voice, whistle or hand signals, but shall be marked down if the voice,
whistle or hand signals are excessive in the opinion of the judges.
SECTION
12. A Novice dog may be cast
from the point of origin no more than twice. (If the dog is "re-cast", see
Chapter I, Section 26, it shall be marked down. After two unsuccessful
attempts, the judges must inform the handler that he/she is no longer in
contention, but time permitting, every effort will be made to allow the dog an
opportunity to participate in additional retrieves for practice.)
SECTION
13. A Novice dog may be
cast from the point of origin no more than twice. (If the dog is "re-cast", see
Chapter I, Section 26, it shall be marked down. After two unsuccessful
attempts, the judges must inform the handler that he/she is no longer in
contention, but time permitting, every effort will be made to allow the dog an
opportunity to participate in additional retrieves for practice.)
SECTION
14. Dogs shall not be required
to honor another dog in this stake.
SECTION
15. Handlers may be
required to carry hunting paraphernalia. Handlers may be required to hold an
empty shotgun in the firing position. (Chapter I, Section 18 shall be in
effect.)
SECTION
16. Walk-ups to simulate
jump shooting may not be used in this stake.
SECTION
17. Hidden gunners or
bird boys are to be used unless they are at the point of origin. From the area
which the bird is to appear, an attention getting attraction shot or shots
shall be fired or a game call blown prior to the bird's being thrown.
Additionally, a shot shall be fired when the bird is at the top of its arc.
This shot may be at the line by the judges or the handler, if the judges so
allow. (It is the intent of these Regulations to provide the dog with adequate
opportunity to focus its attention on the area of the fall.)
SECTION
18. . At the discretion of the
judges, but not more than once, the gunners and bird boys may be visible in
order to simulate specific hunting situations such as dove hunting.
SECTION
19. Dogs shall not be required
to be placed at a point of origin at a distance from the handler.
SECTION
20. A shotgun with blanks loads
(poppers or primers) or a blank pistol shall be used at the judges discretion.
Shots should be fired from the retrieving line rather than from behind the dog
and handler. SECTION 21. At the option of the handler, a dog may be walked from
the holding blind to the retrieving line off lead.
SECTION
21. At the option of the
handler, a dog may be walked from the holding blind to the retrieving line off
lead.
CHAPTER
XI
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST
REQUIREMENTS
FOR INTERMEDIATE STAKE
NOTE: The passages enclosed
in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION
1. Any age
dog that has not pointed out of this stake shall be eligible to compete in this
class. (The purpose of the Intermediate Field Trial is to bring working dogs to
a higher standard of performance. Desire and teamwork with the handler are
important factors. They shall consist of tests that enable the judges to
evaluate natural ability and handler control.)
SECTION
2. An
Intermediate Field Trial shall consist of a minimum of three tests which must
include the following: a double marked land retrieve, a double marked water
retrieve and one blind retrieve which, at the discretion of the judges may be
on land or water.
SECTION
3. Maximum
test distances are as follows: land retrieves are not to exceed 100 yards,
water retrieves are not to exceed 75 yards and blind retrieves are not to
exceed 50 yards.
SECTION
4. Live or
dead pigeons, ducks, pheasants or other game birds may be used in this stake.
(Refer to Chapter I, Section 9.H.)
SECTION
5. A dog
shall be steady at the point of origin; therefore, an uncontrolled break shall
result in disqualification. (For marks, the point of origin is the point at
which the dog is located at the time the first bird becomes visible.)
SECTION
6. Moderate
commands shall be allowed to steady a dog at the point of origin.
SECTION
7. A dog may
be touched or patted at the point of origin to steady, but once the "ready"
signal has been given to the judges by the handler the dog may not be touched
again.
SECTION
8. A
controlled break shall not fail a dog, but it shall be considered a fault. (As
soon as the dog leaves the point of origin and manifests intent to make the
retrieve without being so ordered, it must be stopped. If the dog is
immediately brought under control, it shall be considered a minor infraction.
Repeated evidence of this fault may be considered serious, and in the opinion
of the judges, an eliminating factor.)
SECTION
9. All birds
must be delivered to hand. (The dog shall return to the handler without
delay.)
SECTION
10. A dog may be handled
on marked retrieves with voice/whistle/hand signals, if in the opinion of the
handler, the dog can't find or has missed the mark. (The dog is being tested
for its marking ability and memory, not handling; however, a crisp cast is
preferable to a long hunt.) Repeated evidence of lack of memory, marking
ability or lack of control may be grounds for elimination.
SECTION
11. A dog may be cast
from the point of origin only once. (If the attempt is unsuccessful, the judges
shall step in and direct the handler to pick up his/her dog. However, if in the
judges opinion, the dog exhibits confusion at the point of origin, the judges
may allow a re-cast.)
SECTION
12. Handlers will be
required to handle a shotgun loaded with blank loads (poppers or primers) with
both hands in the firing position. (Chapter I, Section 18 shall be in effect.
All firearms are assumed loaded with live ammunition and must be handled
accordingly. Handlers must hold the firearm in a safe hunting position.
Mishandling of firearms will result in immediate disqualification.)
SECTION
13. Tests for this event
shall be held in appropriate cover on land and water.
SECTION
14. Walk-ups to simulate
jump shooting may be used in this class. The dog shall be brought to an area
designated as the point of origin at heel or under control within ten feet of
its handler. (Section 8 of this chapter be in effect.) The judges may signal
for the bird while the handler and dog are walking.
SECTION
15. Blind retrieves on
land and/or water shall be used in this class, but shall not exceed 50 yards in
length through appropriate cover. Dogs may be cast from the point of origin
only once. (See Section 11 of this Chapter regarding confusion.) Blind
retrieves shall not be incorporated with marking tests. The general area of the
retrieving line for marks shall not be used as the retrieving line for blind
retrieves. (The purpose of an intermediate test is to bring working dogs to a
higher standard of performance. Desire and teamwork are important factors. This
stake shall consist of tests that enable the judges to evaluate both natural
and trained abilities. An Intermediate dog should display a willingness to
cooperate with its handler. "Handling" should be a demonstration of obedience
acquired through training and should be scored on the crispness of the
response. Dogs are expected to stop on a whistle and take a cast. Failure to
stop on the whistle or take a cast is a serious infraction. Multiple whistle or
cast refusals shall be grounds for failure. The judges must decide on the
seriousness of the refusal(s) by taking into account the conditions at
hand.)
SECTION
16. A diversionary bird must be
thrown as the dog returns from the walk-up, blind, or as the last bird of a
double mark. (The diversionary bird should be thrown where the dog can see it,
but not directly in the return path. A dog that drops and leaves its bird and
retrieves (switches) the diversionary bird shall receive a lower score.)
SECTION
17. All dogs must be
walked from the holding blind to the retreiving line off lead.
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CHAPTER
XII
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST
REQUIREMENTS
FOR OPEN STAKE
NOTE:
SECTION
1. The
passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for the judges.
SECTION 1. Any age dog may compete in this class. This Open Stake is for the
finished dog. Dogs will be tested on both their natural and trained abilities.
To successfully compete in the Open stake, a dog must accomplish the tasks
required with both style and precision. Dogs must respond promptly to voice or
whistle commands and be under control at all times. (Excessive noise or
intimidation to prevent a "break" should result in failure.)
SECTION
2. The Open
Stake must include a minimum of three series which shall include the following:
a multiple marked land retrieve, multiple marked water retrieve and a blind
retrieve which would be incorporated with one of the required marking tests.
Dogs are required to honor during one of the marking series. (Time permitting
judges are encouraged to setup additional series to further evaluate a Open
dog's ability. These tests may include the following: diversion marks,
walk-ups, or additional blind retrieves or marking series.)
SECTION
3. Maximum
test distances are as follows: land marks not to exceed 125 yards, water marks
not to exceed 100 yards and blind retrieves not to exceed 100 yards.
SECTION
4. Live or
dead pigeons, ducks. pheasants or other game birds may be used in this class.
(See Chapter I, Section 9.H.)
SECTION
5. A dog
shall be steady at the point of origin, therefore an uncontrolled break shall
result in disqualification. (For marks, the point of origin is the point at
which the dog is located at the time the first bird becomes visible.)
A.Moderate commands shall be allowed to steady a dog at the point of origin.
B. A dog may
be touched or patted at the point of origin to steady, but once the "ready"
signal has been given to the judges by the handler, the dog may not be touched
again.
C. A
controlled break shall not fail a dog, but may be considered a serious fault.
(As soon as the dog leaves the point of origin and manifests an intent to make
the retrieve without being so ordered, it must be stopped.)
SECTION
6. A dog
shall deliver all birds to hand. (The dog shall return to its handler without
delay.)
SECTION
7. A dog may
be handled on marked retrieves with voice/whistle/hand signals, if in the
opinion of the handler, the dog can't find or has missed the mark. (The dog is
being tested for its marking ability and memory, not handling; however, a crisp
cast is preferable to a long hunt. Repeated evidence of lack of memory, marking
ability or lack of control shall be grounds for elimination.)
SECTION
8. A dog shall
be cast from the point of origin, by its handler, only once. (if the attempt is
unsuccessful, the judges shall step in and direct the handler to pick up
his/her dog. However, if in the judges opinion, the dog exhibits confusion at
the point of origin, the judges may allow a re-cast.)
SECTION
9. Handlers
shall be required to handle a shot gun loaded with blank loads (poppers or
primers) with both hands in the firing position. (Chapter I, Section 18 shall
be in effect. All firearms are assumed loaded with live ammunition and must be
handled accordingly. Mishandling of firearms will result in immediate
disqualification.)
SECTION
10. Tests for this event
shall be held in appropriate cover on land and water.
SECTION
11. Tests for this event
shall consist of double or triple marks on both land and water.
A. Quadruple
marks shall not be used.
B. Judges may
not dictate the order in which marked birds are retrieved.
C. Dogs may
be required to be placed at a point of origin at a distance from the handler.
D.
Simultaneous falls with birds and shots originating from the same location may
not be used.
E. Delayed
marks or falls may be used.
SECTION
12. Dry shots may be fired. (A
dry shot is defined as a shot for which no bird is thrown or appears.) Game
calls and additional birds with or without shots may also be used as diversions
as a dog returns from a retrieve. (A dog that drops and leaves its bird and
retrieves the diversion bird shall be failed.)
SECTION
13. Walk-ups to simulate
jump shooting may be used in this class. The dog shall be brought to an area
designated as the point of origin at heel or under control within ten feet of
its handler. Section 5C of this chapter will be in effect. The judges may
signal for the bird while the handler and dog are walking.
SECTION
14. Blind retrieves on
water or land shall be used. Maximum test distance shall not exceed 100 yards.
(Handling in these tests must be done with precision. The dog must stop on
whistle and take a cast. Failure to stop on whistle or take a cast is a serious
infraction. The judges must decide on the seriousness of the refusal by taking
into account the conditions and situation at hand.)
A. At least
one blind shall be incorporated with the required multiple marked retrieves,
B. Additional
blind retrieves may be incorporated with the required multiple marked
retrieves.
SECTION
15. Handlers may not
point out the bird boy prior to the first bird being thrown. Violation of this
section is a major infraction and is grounds for elimination.
SECTION
16. All dogs must be
walked from the holding blind to the retreiving line off lead.
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GLOSSARY
bird
boy: The person who throws the bird or dummy for the dogs to
retrieve. As nearly as possible, his throw should reach the height and distance
of a live bird, which is thrown and shot.
blind: 1. A "blind retrieve" is one in which the dog
does not know the location of the bird but the handler does. The dog is sent
out and controlled by the handler's signals. Sometimes the word "blind" is used
to refer to the bird or dummy used on a blind retrieve.
2. A "blind" is also the canvas cover behind which the dog and
handler stand while waiting to go on line in a trial. It prevents the waiting
dog from seeing any of the falls or the work of the dog working ahead of
him.
break: To leave on a retrieve before being instructed to do so. In a
hunting test, a dog is said to break if he leaves to retrieve before the judge
has called his number.
cast: The directions given a dog working on a blind retrieve after he
has stopped on the whistle. The handler gives the signal with his arm and
voice, either a right or left "over" cast, or a "back" cast. The dog, taking
this direction, is considered to be on cast.
cover: The natural growth covering a land area, such as grass, grain
stubble, bush, etc.
creeping: When a dog who is meant to be sitting quietly and steadily
at his handler's side while the birds are being shot moves forward, or in any
way leaves his position without actually breaking, he is said to be creeping.
Dogs will creep from excitement, and in order to see the falls better. If the
handler has to speak to the dog or otherwise control him, he is considered to
have broken.
diversion: A retrieve, usually a mark and usually fairly short, which
is used in conjunction with a more difficult retrieve, usually a blind and
longer. A dog may have to pick up one or more diversion birds, and then pass
that area on a longer retrieve without stopping and hunting.
double
mark: A marking test in which two birds are thrown or shot
individually, so that the dog can watch for one and then the other. He is
expected to retrieve first one and then the other, remembering each
fall.
flushing: The act of quartering to find live game for the hunter to
shoot.
freezing
on the whistle: When a dog working on a blind retrieve stops and sits
to the whistle and refuses to take a cast - refuses to move at all, but just
sits there - he is freezing on the whistle.
handling: Working a dog on a blind retrieve, or stopping a dog and
casting him on a mark if he needs directions to find it.
honoring: The act of sitting quietly and steadily on line while
another dog works.
line: 1. The line at a hunting test is the spot from which
the dog and handler work. A dog is "on line" when he takes his turn to
work.
2. To line, used as a verb, is to send a dog out on a straight
line on a retrieve. It is a very important part of a blind retrieve. A dog is
expected to hold his original line until he finds the bird or is stopped by the
whistle.
line
manners: A dog's behavior on line, while walking up to take his
position, while birds are being shot, while he is being sent, while delivering,
while honoring, and while walking off. A retriever is expected to be well
mannered.
mark: A bird which the dog sees fall. He is expected to remember the
exact position of the fall and to go directly to it when commanded to do so.
popping: Stopping and looking to the handler for direction without
having been commanded to do so by the whistle.
quartering: A dog's manner of hunting back and forth in front of the
handler within reasonable gun range seeking to find game.
re-cast: To send a dog on a retrieve for a second time. If a dog
starts out to retrieve, returns to his handler, and has to be resent, he is
said to be re-cast.
single
mark: A marking test with only one bird to be
retrieved.
staunch,
steady: A dog is staunch or steady when he does not move to retrieve
until commanded to do so.
switch: To leave an area of one bird, having hunted for it without
finding it, and go to the area of another bird.
tracking: A dog's ability to use his nose to find lost
game.
triple
mark: A marking test in which three birds are thrown or shot
individually, so that the dog can watch each fall. He is expected to remember
each mark, and to retrieve each one separately when commanded to do
so.
walk-up: A test in which the handler with dogs at heel, the guns, and
the bird boys all walk before the birds are thrown and shot, to simulate
natural hunting conditions.
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