|
Field
trialing with the traditional British pointing dogs, commenced in
the late 19th century, and is as British as the Union Jack.
The
dogs used are the pointer, sometimes called the “English Pointer”,
the English, Gordon and Irish Setters.
These
dogs are the specialists. Fast, game finding dogs with a unique
history and evolution for the single purpose of finding game birds.
They were bred to perform this function with such perfection as
to bring dog-work to such an art as any field sport can get.
The
traditional British bird dogs are the stylists created by generations
for which style was everything.
Field
trialing in Australia with Pointers and Setters is still a popular
pastime with its enthusiasts, though its popularity has waned somewhat
in recent times due to strict state gun laws, game regulations and
access to properties to conduct trials.
The
present popular breeds of dogs used for field trials in Australia
are the Pointer and Irish Setter, where prior to World War 2 and
up to the 1950’s the English and Gordon Setters were very much in
vogue, and they still have a small band of enthusiastic followers
to this day.
To
become active in the sport you first of all need a dog.
When
purchasing a dog it is wise to check the ACT Canine Association
breeders listing for recognised breeders. The dog you choose may
be a Pointer, English, Gordon or Irish Setter.
The
aim of the dog, is to find game by quartering at high
speed whilst scenting the air, and to find game over the largest
area in the shortest time. Once located the should hold the game
by going into a point and holding the point till the handler
arrives. On the command of the handler the dog should move forward
which will cause the game to rise. It is imperative that the dog
is under control at all times. The handler may choose to have
the game retrieved, or “seek dead”, this is when the dog goes into
a point on finding the fallen game.
When
you finally decide on the breed you want, ask the breeder if you
may view the pedigree of the dog, this will tell you not only its
sire and dam but also its breeding lines to see if there is any
working stock in the line. Training of your dog is important and
this commences when you first collect your puppy. Ask the breeder
if they can recommend people within the breed club who assist you
with your new puppies training. For obedience training you may decide
to join an obedience club. For field training there are triallers
who will be happy to assist you with training. When you are
ready to trial your dog, contact the ACT Gundog Association or your
dog’s breed club to obtain dates of the next field trial, and then
attend a field trial to see the dogs competing against each other.
|
