MEMBERSHIP
CHARLESTON RETRIEVER CLUB ("CRC")
Club Trial Regulations and Procedures
Dated 20-April-2010
Chapter I General Regulations and Procedures for CRC Club TrialChapter II Club Trial Chairman
Chapter III Equipment Manager
Chapter IV Game Steward
Chapter V Club 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 Bronze Stake
Chapter XI Regulations and Minimum Test Requirements for Silver Stake
Chapter XII Regulations and Minimum Test Requirements for Gold Stake
Chapter XIII Regulations and Minimum Test Requirements for Upland Flushing Stake
Chapter XIV Regulations and Minimum Test Requirements for Junior Handler Stake
CHAPTER I
GENERAL REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES FOR
CRC CLUB TRIALSSECTION 1. The purpose of a Club 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 hunt. 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. Training in any category is also an option. If you have registered as 'competition', you may change to 'training' after the first series. If you have registered as 'training', you MUST clarify the change at headquarters before the test has started for the day.
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 CRC 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 CRC and shall abide by the regulations herein.
B. Duck blinds, 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 CRC Club 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.SECTION 10. No dog shall be entered or run in any Club Trial, 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 Club Trial.
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.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 line until they have left same and are behind the judges on a leash.
SECTION 13. The working dog will be required to stay on the line until all birds have been launched, shot, and hit the ground. The handler may release the dog as soon as the bird has stopped on the ground and the dog has shown steady.
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 shall have the authority to expel a handler from any further participation in the stake 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 Club Trial grounds. It shall be the duty of the judges to promptly report to the Club Trial committee any action taken under this section. The Club Trial committee may then expel the handler from further participation at the event if, in the committee's opinion, such further action is warranted. The use of electronic training aids or devices are prohibited on the test grounds. Should a handler be expelled under this section, the dog(s) that he is handling may continue to participate with another handler. The Club Trial committee shall submit in writing to the Board of Directors a complete report of any action taken under this section.
NOTE: If a dog is entered in any category as 'training', the use of electronic aids or devices are permitted; but, in the event of unsportsmanlike conduct or manhandling of dogs the afore mentioned rules will still applySECTION 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 Club Trial committee the expulsion of a handler from a stake. The Club Trial committee shall then expel the handler from all other stakes at the event. Whenever a handler is expelled from a category or from participation at a Club Trial under this section, the dog or dogs that he is handling may continue to be tested with another handler. The Club Trial 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 hardmouth 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 hardmouth 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. The handler shall be notified immediately of the elimination and the damaged bird removed from further use. 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 Club Trial committee to leave the Club Trial 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 CRC officers. Dogs that are disqualified under this section must be immediately confined or removed from the Club Trial grounds. It shall be the duty of the judges to promptly report to the Club Trial committee the expulsion of a dog from a category. The Club Trial 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 Club Trial 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, Bronze, Silver and Gold 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 in Bronze or Puppy Stakes, 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 Bronze 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. However, excessive creeping places the dog in the cone blast of the shotgun and could deafen or inadvertently kill the dog. (Excessive or consistent creeping should be treated as a controlled break and the retriever must be brought to heel on the judges command).
SECTION 31. Dogs participating in Junior Puppy, Senior Puppy and Bronze stakes may wear a collar, provided said collar is made of nylon or leather. Dogs participating in the Silver and Gold stakes 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. Dog vests are allowed for insulation (not floatation) purposes during Club Trial water tests held during the months of December through February.
Top of PageCHAPTER II
CLUB TRIAL CHAIRMANA. The responsibilities of the Club Trial Chairman are as follows:
1. Secure adequate grounds to hold a Club Trial. Secure portable restrooms if needed.
2. Deliver to the CRC Secretary detailed directions and a map at least six weeks prior to the scheduled Club Trial date.
3. Select judges, marshals, and arrange for lunch-time meals.
4. Coordinate with the Equipment Manager to confirm that all equipment will be available to stage the Club 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.
Top of PageCHAPTER III
EQUIPMENT MANAGERA. The Equipment Manager's responsibilities are as follows:
1. Taking care of all club equipment and making sure it is available at every Club Trial.
2. Issuing all necessary equipment to the judges and marshals and explaining to them that it is their responsibility to return all equipment to the Equipment Manager at the end of the Club Trial.
3. Seeing that all equipment is accounted for at the end of each Club Trial.
Top of Page
CHAPTER IV
GAME STEWARDA. The Game Steward will oversee the humane treatment and dispatch of birds used in the Club Trial. The Game Steward will be responsible for providing birds for the tests.
Top of Page
CHAPTER V
CLUB TRIAL COMMITTEEA. The Club 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 Club Trial Committee as appointed by the Board will serve a one year term.
B. It is the responsibility of the Club Trial Committee to oversee all Club Trials.
C. All tests must be approved by at least one member of the Club 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 Club Trial Committee.
Top of Page
CHAPTER VI
STAKESA. Stakes are to be offered as follows:
1. Junior Puppy Stake - puppies that have not surpassed their 6th month birthday on the day of the trial.
2. Senior Puppy Stake - puppies that have not surpassed their 12th month birthday on the day trial.
3. Bronze Stake - young dogs not yet ready for Silver Stake and have not accumulated over 15 points based on the 54321 system, or have not been awarded “Bronze Dog of the Year” and for new members with older dogs that have not been entered before in a Club Trial.
4. Silver Stake - any age dog that has not accumulated more than 25 points based on the 54321 system in this class or has not been awarded “Silver Dog of the Year”.
5. Gold Stake - any age dog may compete in this class.
6. Upland Flushing Stake - any dog may compete in this class.
7. Junior Handler Stake – any person under 16 years of age.
Top of Page
CHAPTER VII
ELIGIBILITYA.CRC members and non-members are eligible to participate in CRC Club Trials. However, in order to accumulate dog of the year points both the owner and handler must be a member or become a member of the CRC within 30 days of the trial.
B. 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 at each club trial.
C. After the conclusion of the “end of the year club trial” each calendar year, the CRC will recognize the dog of the year as the high point dog in each stake.
NOTE: In the event of a tie - ties for DOY will be recognized as long as all tying dogs have run an equal number of tests and are a member in good standing.D. 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 club trial. A Senior Puppy is defined as a pup twelve months of age or under on the day of the club trial.
E. A puppy that is under six months of age may enter in both the Junior and Senior Stakes at the same Club Trial. Dog of the year points will be recorded based on the single highest ribbon earned.
F. Once a dog has earned 15 points based on the 54321 system in Bronze, it will have to move up to a higher class, but may remain in Bronze 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.
G. In the Silver stake, a dog is eligible to compete until he has earned 25 points based on the 54321 system, and may remain in the Silver 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.
H. Any dog is eligible to enter the Gold stake.
I. Any dog is eligible to enter the Upland Flushing stake.
Top of Page
CHAPTER VIII
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR JUNIOR PUPPY STAKENOTE: The passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION 1. Puppies that have not surpassed their 6th month birthday on the day of the trial may compete in this category.
SECTION 2. Tests will consist of a minimum of two simple single land marked retrieves. Water retrieves are prohibited.
SECTION 3. Maximum test distances are not to exceed 30 yards.
SECTION 4. Tests should be run in very low cover. (Every effort should be made for birds to be visible to pups at all times.)
SECTION 5. Available game birds (ducks, pigeons, etc.) or bumpers only are to be used in this stake at the discretion of the handler.
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. Firearms will not be used in this stake.
SECTION 9. Hand delivery is not required in this stake. However, pups must deliver the bird 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).
Top of Page
CHAPTER IX
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR SENIOR PUPPY STAKENOTE: The passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION 1. Puppies that have not surpassed their 12th month birthday on the day of the event may compete in this stake.
SECTION 2. Tests will consist of a minimum of two and a maximum 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 50 yards and water retrieves are not to exceed 40 yards.
SECTION 4. Tests should be run in low cover.
SECTION 5. Available game birds (ducks, chucker, etc.) 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 primers 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.)
Top of PageCHAPTER X
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR BRONZE STAKENOTE: 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 Club Trial or for dogs that have aged out of the puppy class and are not yet ready for the Silver class.
SECTION 2. A Bronze Club Trial shall consist of a minimum of four single bird marking tests, two land retrieves and two water retrieves. (The purpose of the Bronze stake at the Club 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 Bronze 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 Bronze 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. Dogs shall not be required to honor another dog in this stake.
SECTION 14. Diversions and dry shots (i.e., shots for which no bird is thrown) shall not be allowed.
SECTION 15. Handlers may be required to fire a shotgun with primer at the line unless the handler has chosen to restrain the dog. In that case a judge may fire the primer for the handler. (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) 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.
Top of Page
CHAPTER XI
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR SILVER STAKENOTE: 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 Silver Club 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 Silver Club 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. The Silver Club Trial may also include a diversion, walkup and second blind retrieve at the judges discretion to provide separation for the dogs being tested.
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 is 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 Silver 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. A Silver 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 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.
Top of Page
CHAPTER XII
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR GOLD STAKENOTE: The passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for the judges.
SECTION 1. Any dog may compete in this class. This Gold Stake is for the finished dog. Dogs will be tested on both their natural and trained abilities. To successfully compete in the Gold 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 Gold 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 or both 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 Gold 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 150 yards, water marks not to exceed 125 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.
Top of Page
CHAPTER XIII
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR UPLAND FLUSHING STAKENOTE: The passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for the judges.
SECTION 1. Any dog may compete in this class. This Upland Flushing Stake is for the finished dog. Dogs will be tested on both their natural and trained abilities. 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 Upland Flushing Stake shall consist of a simulated walk-up hunt, quartering test (minimum of 2 flushes), and an optional tracking test. The dog must be steady to wing and shot. Honoring of another dog is required and may be tested in the walk-up or quartering test. During this test the dog will be required to locate and retrieve game, as the judges direct.
SECTION 3. Quartering. The dog hunts in a radius ideally 10 to 30 yards to the front of the handler. In all cases a natural flush is preferred to the use of traps to release a bird. In case a trap is used the live bird is flushed in full view of the dog. The distance from the bird to the dog should be within scenting distance of the dog. The dog is required to be steady to wing and shot. The dog should immediately return to the previous hunting range upon being called and/or whistle commanded by the handler. The handler will shoot the gun (primer/popper), and the gunners may kill the bird. If the dog does not immediately return to the hunting area, the test is failed. The dog will be required to complete the retrieve for a downed bird if in an acceptable safe range. The dog should be eager to hunt all available cover diligently and be under control. The intent of the quartering test is not to demonstrate running a pattern, but to demonstrate a natural tendency to hunt and be under control. The quartering flushing test may be combined with an honor test.
SECTION 4. Walk-up 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. The judges may signal for the bird while the handler and dog are walking. 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.) The walk-up may be combined with an honor test.
SECTION 5. Live or dead pigeons, quail, chuckers, pheasants or other game birds may be used in this class. (See Chapter I, Section 9.F.)
SECTION 6. A dog shall deliver all birds to hand. (The dog shall return to its handler without delay.)
SECTION 7. 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 8. All dogs must be walked from the holding blind to the retreiving line off lead.
Top of Page
CHAPTER XIV
REGULATIONS AND MINIMUM TEST REQUIREMENTS
FOR JUNIOR HANDLER STAKENOTE: The passages enclosed in parentheses are additional guidelines for judges.
SECTION 1. The test will be limited to Handlers under the age 16 years. Only the Junior handler is being judged at this level, the dog must only qualify the test. The Junior Handler Test is for young or inexperienced handlers. The Junior Handler might not have had the experience of a season of hunting, or limited exposure to hunting and/or training. A Junior Handler should be able to do a simple dove or waterfowl hunt and handle a Retriever from land and water.
SECTION 2. Tests will consist of a minimum of 2 single marked retrieves and 1 single marked water retrieves.SECTION 3. Maximum test distances are as follows; land retrieves are not to exceed 50 yards and water retrieves are not to exceed 40 yards.
SECTION 4. Tests should be run in low cover.
SECTION 5. Available game birds (pigeons, ducks, etc.) will be used in this stake.
SECTION 6. Dogs 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. Dogs will not be required to retrieve from a boat or through decoys.
SECTION 9. Guns will not be allowed in the test.
SECTION 10. Hand delivery is not required in this stake. However, the dog must deliver the bird within a reasonable radius of the point of origin.
SECTION 11. Dog may be cast from the point of origin no more than twice.
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 dogs get a good look at the falls.)
SECTION 13. The Handler will position the dog in the direction of the fall and signal the Judge when he is ready. The Handler will blow a duck call to start the test. At the retrieving line, voice or whistle commands can be used to steady the dog. The Handler shall not intimidate the dog at the retrieving line. The Handler shall not have any training aid to intimidate the dog: i.e., whip, prod, cane, quirt, dummy, weighted or shock collars or other similar equipment at the retrieving line. The dog is to be released by the Handler when the bird hits the ground.
SECTION 14. The Handler must keep his dog on lead to and from the retrieving line.
SECTION 15. General guidelines for judging Junior Handlers. The Junior Handler should demonstrate the knowledge to control a dog through voice, whistle or hand signals for handling a dog to make marked retrieves. The Junior Handler should demonstrate these commands in a proper manner (loudness, not intimidating, proper sequence and timing). The Junior Handler should demonstrate the dog is responding and cooperating with the handler. The Junior Handler should demonstrate the ability to properly handle the retrieved bird.
Top of Page
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 Club Trial, a dog is said to break if he leaves to retrieve before the handler sends the dog and the bird has hit the ground.
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 longer more difficult retrieve. 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 Club Trial 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.
Top of Page
