Information on NAVHDA &Testing Incentive Program
In the world of hunting, having a reliable and well-trained hunting dog can make all the difference. These dogs serve as an essential tool for hunters, assisting in tracking, retrieving, and pointing out game. However, not all dogs are created equal when it comes to hunting abilities. That's where the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) comes in.
NAVHDA is an organization dedicated to testing and improving the abilities of hunting dogs. Their testing program evaluates the natural abilities of dogs in the field, including tracking, pointing, and retrieving, as well as their overall obedience and trainability. This testing is crucial for maintaining and monitoring the quality of hunting dogs by helping owners and trainers identify any weaknesses or areas for improvement in their dogs. The tests provide a benchmark for a dog's abilities, allowing owners to focus on training and improving specific areas. This not only benefits the individual dog but also contributes to the overall quality of hunting dogs.
One of the primary benefits of testing hunting dogs with NAVHDA is that it helps breeders select the best dogs for breeding. By evaluating a dog's natural abilities and trainability, breeders can make informed decisions when selecting potential breeding pairs. This ensures that the next generation of hunting dogs will have the necessary skills and traits to excel in the field.
NAVHDA testing also plays a crucial role in maintaining breed standards. With the popularity of hunting dogs increasing, there is a risk of breeding for appearance rather than hunting abilities. By testing and evaluating the natural abilities of dogs, NAVHDA ensures that breed standards are based on functionality rather than solely on appearance.
Vogeljager HIGHLY encourages you to test your puppy. Natural Ability testing must be done before 16 months of age. After completing a natural ability test with your puppy, Vogeljager will award you $200 as part of our testing incentive program. You do not have to Prize to receive the $200.
Vogeljagers's owner, Sarah Seelow, is the Vice President of Alamo NAVHDA. This chapter is located in Hondo, TX and tests in Charlotte, TX. If you have any questions about NAVHDA or testing your dog, please do not hesitate to ask.
In order to test your puppy, both you and the puppy must be members of NAVHDA. Your puppy will already be registered with NAVHDA and AKC upon pickup. Here is the link for you to join NAVHDA International.
Once you have joined NAVHDA International, then you can find a local chapter to join. If you need help locating a chapter please use the Chapter Locator Map.
Once apart of a chapter, you can join them for training days and enter hunt tests.
Natural Ability Test
The Natural Ability Test consists of:
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Search
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Pointing
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Swimming
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Pheasant track
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Physical examination
Additionally, the dog will be evaluated on Use of Nose, Desire to Work and Cooperation, based upon performance in the other phases.
Also, two blank shots will be fired at the beginning of the search to test for any gun-shyness. The physical examination is part of the dog’s permanent NAVHDA record and is important if the dog is to be used for breeding. Besides the physical attributes, temperament also is noted.
Utility Test
PHASE 1: FIELD GROUP
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Search: Systematic hunting drive and coverage of cover (minimum 30 minutes).
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Pointing: Convincing, steady point on game birds.
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Steadiness on Game: Complete steadiness to wing, shot, and fall.
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Retrieve of Shot Bird: Precise mark and prompt delivery to hand.
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Retrieve of Dragged Game: Tracking a blind game trail (100–200 yards) and retrieving to hand.
PHASE 2: WATER GROUP
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Water Search (Search for a Duck): Independent, thorough search in heavy reedy cover without a duck present.
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Walking at Heel: Controlled, off-leash heel work through varied terrain.
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Remaining by Blind: Remaining quiet and hidden in a blind while the handler leaves sight.
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Steadiness by Blind: Calmly honoring simulated gunfire while remaining in position.
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Retrieve of a Duck: Prompt entry and retrieval of a fallen duck across deep water to hand.
PHASE 3: EVALUATION & PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
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Physical Examination: Evaluates teeth/bite, eyes, coat, and testicles (for males).
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Temperament: Evaluation of overall stability, aggression, or shyness.
Note: Physical attributes and temperament become part of the dog's permanent NAVHDA record and are critical for breeding considerations.
CONTINUOUS EVALUATION
(Judged across all phases of the test)
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Use of Nose
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Desire to Work
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Cooperation
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Stamina
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Obedience
