Gundogs Tests and trials

Is there a minimum number of retrieves in a gundog test?

Gundog tests: Is there a minimum number of retrieves for each dog in a novice retriever trial?

Would you like to appear on our site? We offer sponsored articles and advertising to put you in front of our readers.  Find out more
Time Well Spent
Time Well Spent December 4, 2012

GUNDOG TESTS
Paul Rawlings
There is no minimum number of retrieves stated in the regulations.

Dogs must have been under at least two different judges in subsequent rounds and it is common practice for each dog to have two retrieves in the first round and at least one in the second.

It is unlikely that judges will have reached a satisfactory conclusion by then, so a third round with two more retrieves is usual before any final decisions are made.

I have seen a novice stake concluded in which some award winners have only had four retrieves, but that is unusual.