GWCT Gun Dog Working Test 2014

    “What a fun day! Always well run and the tests were challenging!”

“Cracking terrain with the wood, water and lots of cover!”

“I learnt today….not to over handle my dog, especially in water!”

“I'm not a member of the GWCT but after listening to the talk today perhaps I should be!”

These were just a few of the comments coming from the gun dog handlers at the AV Gundog Working Test & Fun Day (non kc) held at Bloxworth Estate by kind permission of Lisa Macdonald Smith. The event was sponsored by Skinners Dog Food and the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust.

A strong team – Enthusiastic and dedicated, Corbinsbere Gun Dogs were able to create something exceptional in the working test domain. Experienced in the field of gun dog training Tracy Corbin and her team organised the event which offered all types of gun dogs an opportunity to try four challenging tests in Special Puppy, Novice dog/novice handler, Novice and Open classes. Experienced judges Michael Lynfoot, Nick Coates, Margaret  Allen and Dave England were keen to offer their time and support throughout  the day.  

Local gun dog competitor Felicity Green found the day to be rewarding and a good exercise to experience the test environment without the pressure. “These events are a great way to assess how far you are with your dog. I've got  a kc intermediate test coming up and it's helpful to keep doing them because dogs and handlers behave differently in test circumstances. These fun events are slightly more relaxed but you're still in a test environment and you get alot more help and feedback from the judges.”

Felicity was delighted with her scores  and  came 1^st in the Open Retriever Class with her Labrador Retriever Ashoaks Silent Wings. “The water test was a challenge for me today. It was a blind across the water. The dog went out well but she didn't handle as well as I would have liked in getting her over to the island. Once she was on the island she hunted nicely picked the dummy and the rest of the test was fine.” Felicity obtained some useful feedback from experienced judge Nick Coates. “I learnt today not to over handle my dog in a water retrieve. Nick offered some good advice as I find it's always difficult not to handle when your dog is in the water. I should have let her swim further into the lake and then given her one command. I was trying to get her over to the bank before she had swum far enough and therefore I lost points for over handling.”

The working test also serves as a vital link between novice gun dog owners and the more experienced handlers. The novice dog/ novice handler class offers the less experienced handler to participate in four tests and find out if they enjoy this exciting field sport. Local gun dog owner Gemma Northover is new to the working test environment. She was thrilled with her German Short Haired Pointer cross, Henry, who came 1st in the Special Puppy Class.

"I really wanted to learn how to handle a gundog properly and Henry is loving his training and enjoys it so much."   Gemma has been pleased with his progress and came away with some areas to work on. "I need to do more heel work and keep Henry a bit tighter when quartering, and remember to draw him back if he goes on a bit too much. He can get carried away so I try to make sure he is always listening to me." The handsome German Pointer x Irish Water Spaniel clearly loved his puppy tests and his achievement reflects a young dog who is keen, quick to learn and eager to please.

Corbinsbere were delighted to see 14 year old Becky Mann participate in the working test with her Labrador Retriever Ellie. "I've enjoyed today and realize I have to work on our steadiness." The local junior handler has had a successful start in life with various gun dog events and has won many scurries in the four years she has been handling.  From a very young age Becky has shadowed her Dad, Gerry,  in the competition field and has a passion for the countryside. He said,

"Becky always gives 100% in all she does which is a good thing these days and we are very proud of all she has achieved."

The talented teenager came 1st at Highclere this year and has qualified for the Great Wall Motor World Series Junior Handler Championship Finals in September which aims to find the UK's top junior gun dog handler.  Competing in the test today highlighted the unique relationship between Becky and her dog and no doubt a future winning team, not just in the field but in life itself.

One of the benefits of a working test is that it  teaches us something new about our dogs and our handling. Thankfully the support from our sponsors and local gun dog clubs enables us to celebrate the outstanding working characteristics of our gundogs whilst enjoying all aspects of the countryside. This year the GWCT have expanded their dog theme at the Scottish Game Fair and introduced an exciting 'World of Gundogs' attraction which no doubt will prove popular not only to the gun dog enthusiast but to all dog lovers.