about the hunting tests

Are you interested in finding out what tests are available for your versatile/HPR dog?

The Testing Systems

There are several recognized hunting tests available for the Versatile hunting dog (HPR+) breeds. Each are slightly different, but each are designed to judge a dog’s performance individually against a standard, rather than against other dogs (as in a field trial where only a few dogs can win).

These tests evaluate the dog’s natural and trained abilities that enable it to do its hunting job in the field – and range from tests of very basic natural ability to tests requiring an exceptionally high standard of performance, training and ability. There are four recognized testing systems, each with their own rules, regulations, and judges, that clubs may offer through the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA).

See the links below for the different tests you and your dog can do!

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The VERSATILE TESTS are relatively new and are based on the German GSP tests (the DKV Kurzhaar tests) which range from testing natural abilities to much more advanced testing of natural and trained hunting abilities. They are conducted entirely in the field and employ a scoring system that requires each test subject to be passed at a specific level in order to obtain a Prize I, II or III. A Prize I indicates that the dog scored the highest “Very Good (4)” in all natural ability subjects and at least “Good (3)” in the trained subjects. A Prize III indicates that the dog has passed but not necessarily with high scores throughout. The scoring system ranges from 4 – Very Good, at the top to 0 at the bottom (insufficient or failing). Excellent performances may be designated with a 4h (h for excellent).

In each of the individual Versatile tests, of which there are three, dogs are evaluated in the field on natural (wild) game and must show a desire to hunt (search), must find game (nose), must point it (point) and be cooperative and obedient. Dogs are also evaluated in their retrieving ability and reliability on land and water. Only game is used for the retrieving assessments.

Click to see the full Schedule 5C(6) Regulations here…

The GUNDOG HUNTING TESTS were developed in Germany (the JGHV tests) for all versatile pointing breeds and are very similar to the Versatile Tests. In general, the test subjects for two the tests are almost identical, but the scoring system is different and the results are presented as a total score. The scoring system ranges from 10 at the top to 0 at the bottom (failing) with an option to award higher points of 11 or 12 for top performances. Dogs may only pass if every subject is given at least a score of “Sufficient” (3 points out of 10).

There are three individual tests. At the top end of testing, the SA-VGP is introduced and is considered  to be the total hunting utility test for all versatile breeds in Germany.

Click to see the full Schedule 5C(5) Regulations here…

The SHOOTING RATINGS Tests consist of a dual system of field tests (Shooting Dog classes) and retrieving tests (Retrieving Dog classes). Before moving up in the hierarchy of tests, one must first pass the base tests and move up from there. The tests are administered on a pass/fail basis. There is no age restriction on any of the tests. All tests are conducted in the field and may be run on planted pigeons or natural game or a combination of the two. Game is used for all of the retrieving tests.

Click to see the full Schedule 5C(4) Regulations here…

The HPR NATURAL ABILITY Test has been around for some time and is one of the least demanding and effort-intensive tests. It is therefore suitable for puppies or the beginner owner/handler. It is a pass/fail test of “natural abilities” – the instinctive traits required for a versatile/HPR dog that will be used in the field in future. Some conditioning in retrieving and pointing is usually necessary for this test so that the dog can show its abilities. This may require very little effort, or more, depending on the dog.

Your puppy or dog should have some very basic obedience, should show some hunting desire, should show a pointing instinct (however brief) on planted pigeon or quail, should retrieve a dummy from land and water, and not be gunshy. Additionally, you should be able to walk away from your dog (placed in a still position) and then recall it to you. Pup should be able to be examined and not show any sort of fear or aggression to other dogs or people.

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