graded training for gundogs

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Hunting Retriever (HR) awards are suitable for all gundogs who are being trained for ‘spaniel style’ gundog work.  No pedigree is required. 

The emphasis at this grade is on proficiency both in hunting, and in retrieving dummies. One field test pass is required for the dog to receive the award of Proficient Hunting Retriever.

The Grade Four test is a ‘hunt up’ during which the dog will be required to demonstrate hunting and retrieving skills,  followed by a section for the remaining two retrieves

  • HUNT UP
  • ADDITIONAL RETRIEVES

Details of each section are set out below

 Is my dog ready?

To pass the Grade Four Field Test your dog will be able to hunt a controlled and effective pattern for several minutes without excessive use of the whistle.  Your dog will stop to shot and fall, (use of the stop whistle is permitted) and remain steady once he has done so without any further commands.

He will retrieve proficiently, including a retrieve over a jump, and simple blinds. He will be obediently under control throughout the test.  Check below to find out just what is required. Please note that this test include jumping and dogs entering should be sufficiently mature to jump safely.

The Hunt Up

PART ONE  –  THE HUNT UP  80 POINTS

The dog to hunt closely in front of the handler through moderate cover  The dog must show efficient coverage of the ground and make some effort to keep within his beat, with the turn whistle not to be used excessively

  • HUNTING ABILITY: The natural ability of the dog, his enthusiam, style and effective coverage of the ground is recorded in this section. Maximum points for hunting ability: 25.
  • HUNTING TEAMWORK: The responsiveness of the dog to the handler, and the ability of the handler to quietly control the dog is recorded in this section.  Response to the whistle and to shot and fall noted. Maximum points for hunting teamwork: 25
  • MARKED RETRIEVES: During the hunt up,  the dog will be expected to carry out two marked retrieves (maximum distance 25 and 40 yards respectively.  The dog will be cast remotely from the stop. Maximum points for the retrieves: 20. (ten points each)
  • DISCRETIONARY POINTS: A further ten points may be allocated by the assessor for outstanding field skills displayed during the hunt up. Maximum discretionary points: 10

Additional Retrieves

PART TWO  –  ADDITIONAL RETRIEVES 20

The dog will carry out the following two additional retrieves

  • BLIND RETRIEVE: A short blind retrieve (up to 20 yards) the dog to be sent from the handler’s side. Maximum points for the blind retrieve:10
  • MARKED RETRIEVE OVER A JUMP :  Length of retrieve – up to 25 yards.  Maximum height of jump ‘two feet’.  The dog to be sent from the handler’s side. Maximum points for retrieve over a jump: 10

 Think you can do it?

Email admin@thegundogclub.co.uk to book a test.