Spring pointing
These tests are designed to test the natural working ability of
the dog on open ground. the With an eye to ground covered, hunting
ability, pointing and steadiness. Dogs are run and graded
as individuals and are not in competition against each other.
CATEGORIES
The Tests are judged by age
Junior - For dogs over 6 months and under 2 years of age on 1st
January in the year of the pointing test, usually judged on
partridge and pheasant, ground game being judged for steadiness only.
Adult - For dogs over 2 years of age on the 1st January in the year
of the pointing test, usually judged on partridge with all
other game being used to judge for steadiness only.
Expectations
Each dog shall run quartering into the wind.
Each dog shall run for sufficient time to allow a considered
grading. usually 10 mins. (Each dog will be allowed one minute to settle).
Dogs are expected to hunt, point, and hold game then flush on command.
Each dog graded sould be given a verbal critique by the Judge/Judges
and an Assessment Certificate at the end of the day.
Assessments
EXCELLENT
The dog works to the ideal pattern and exhibited all skills well.
VERY GOOD
Worked close to the ideal pattern with no persistent
faults.
GOOD
Worked to a good standard showing natural aptitude.
Notes.
Dog should quarter with their nose on the wind and with correct head carriage.
Quarters and turns into the wind.
Ignors ground or residual scent, occasionally indicating its presence.
Positive indication of game; ideally held until handler is in close contact.
Game not to be chased on flush, exuberant behaviour quickly brought under control may be ignored with junior dogs. (A grading can be considered if birds flush off the dog's point of their own accord when the handler is not in close contact.)
Dogs graded on their first run are not required to run again. Dogs of sufficient standard that have not been given a grading on their first run may be considered for a second run.
Faults - Stickiness - Persistent false pointing - Repeated
casting back on the wind - Unsteadiness - Catching unfit game.
Eliminating Faults - Out of control - Failure to hunt or point - Not covering sufficient ground - Chasing - Deliberately flushing game without pointing - Missing game birds on the beat - Whining or barking.