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The Essence of the Field Trial
At its heart, a field trial simulates a day’s hunting. Dogs, typically run in pairs called a ‘brace’, are unleashed under the watchful eyes of mounted judges. Their task is to systematically quarter the designated course, using their incredible sense of smell to locate hidden game birds, usually quail, pheasant, or partridge, which have been released beforehand. The goal isn’t just to find birds, but to do so with speed, style, intelligence, and impeccable manners. The Pointer, with its sleek lines, boundless energy, and an innate desire to hunt, is perfectly suited for this demanding activity. Their very name describes their most defining characteristic: the ‘point’. When a Pointer detects the scent of a bird, it freezes, often lifting a foreleg and holding its body rigid, tail straight or slightly raised, head and nose directed precisely towards the hidden quarry. This pointing posture is not trained in the conventional sense; it’s a deeply ingrained genetic instinct, refined over generations.What Judges Look For
Success in a field trial is measured against a specific set of criteria, evaluated by experienced judges who understand canine performance and bird behavior intimately. They are looking for a dog that demonstrates:- Bird Finding Ability: This is paramount. The dog must actively hunt and successfully locate birds using its scenting ability and ground coverage strategy. A dog that runs impressively but finds no game will not place.
- Pointing Style and Intensity: How does the dog look on point? Judges appreciate a high head and tail, a rigid posture, and an unwavering intensity that screams ‘bird right here!’ The dog must hold its point staunchly until the handler arrives.
- Range and Pattern: The dog needs to cover the ground efficiently and intelligently. In ‘All-Age’ stakes, this often means running far out, hitting objectives where birds are likely to be found. In ‘Gun Dog’ or ‘Shooting Dog’ stakes, the dog is expected to work closer, within comfortable shotgun range of the handler. The pattern should be purposeful, not random running.
- Speed and Stamina: Field trial dogs are incredible athletes. They need to maintain a strong pace and hunt enthusiastically throughout their time on the course, which can be anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour or more depending on the stake.
- Backing (or Honoring): When one dog points, its bracemate must immediately stop and ‘back’ or ‘honor’ the pointing dog, essentially pointing the pointing dog. This demonstrates discipline and respect for the other dog’s find, preventing interference.
- Manners: This includes ‘steadiness to wing and shot’. When the handler flushes the bird, the dog must remain steady, not chasing the bird as it flies away. If a shot is fired (often a blank pistol), the dog must also remain steady. Breaking (chasing) is a significant fault.
- Handling: While Pointers are valued for their independence, they must also be reasonably responsive to their handler’s commands or guidance, usually given via voice or whistle, without excessive intervention.
Different Levels of Competition
Field trials are structured into various ‘stakes’ catering to different ages and experience levels:- Puppy Stakes: For dogs typically under a certain age (e.g., 15 months). Judging focuses primarily on potential: hunting desire, boldness, natural pointing instinct, and range appropriate for their age. Steadiness isn’t usually required.
- Derby Stakes: For dogs generally under two years old. More is expected than in puppy stakes regarding range, pattern, and pointing style, but they are still developing. Steadiness requirements are often less strict than in adult stakes.
- Gun Dog / Shooting Dog Stakes: These stakes emphasize practicality for the walking hunter. Dogs are expected to hunt within comfortable gun range, handle kindly, and exhibit polished manners (steadiness to wing and shot).
- All-Age Stakes: This is often considered the pinnacle. Dogs are expected to show maximum independence, run big, searching distant objectives with extreme speed and style. They must find birds and demonstrate impeccable pointing and backing manners.
The Allure and The Challenge
Why do people dedicate countless hours, significant expense, and travel long distances for field trials? It’s a passion rooted in a deep appreciation for the working dog. Watching a well-bred Pointer flow across the landscape, snap into a stylish point, and remain composed as a bird erupts is a truly thrilling sight. It’s about preserving the incredible natural instincts these breeds possess. It’s also about the challenge. Training a field trial Pointer requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of canine behavior. It involves conditioning the dog physically and mentally, exposing them to birds, teaching manners around game, and developing that crucial partnership between handler and dog. The camaraderie among participants, sharing a love for the dogs and the outdoors, is another significant draw.Important Consideration: Prospective participants should understand the significant commitment required in terms of time, training, and financial resources. Furthermore, ethical treatment of both dogs and game birds is fundamental to reputable field trials. The goal is always to celebrate and test natural ability responsibly, ensuring the welfare of all animals involved.
