Field Trials / Hunt Tests
Field Trials & Hunt Tests: Training Gear for Competitors and Host Organizations
Field trials and hunt tests are where the work of a full training season gets measured against a standard — or against the other dogs in the stake. Whether you're running a pointing breed in an AKC walking trial, competing in a NAVHDA utility test, earning a Senior Hunter title on a retriever, or hosting an NSTRA event for your local club, the right training gear and competition supplies make the difference between a smooth, confident day and one spent improvising.
Dogs Unlimited has served the field trial and hunt test community since 1971 — longer than most of our competitors have existed. The products below cover every role on the competition field: GPS systems and e-collars for competitors and trainers, training books and DVDs built around competition standards, horseback field trial equipment and host organization supplies, and everything in between. Questions about what you need for your next event — call us at 800-338-3647. We know this world.
Field Trial vs. Hunt Test: What's the Difference?
A field trial is a competitive event — dogs run against each other in a stake and are ranked by judges. Placements vary by organization and format: most organizations offer one to four placements per stake, while American Field championships offer two placements and classics offer three. Stakes may be run on foot or on horseback — the host organization determines the format. Field trials reward dogs that are exceptional on the day.
A hunt test evaluates each dog against a predetermined standard rather than against other dogs. Any dog that meets the standard earns a qualifying score regardless of how many others qualify that day. Hunt tests are the recommended starting point for most handlers new to competition — you're working toward a defined target, not trying to beat a field of experienced competitors on your first outing.
Choosing the Right Organization: AKC, NAVHDA, NSTRA, UKC, and American Field
AKC runs hunt tests and field trials for retrievers, pointing breeds, and flushing spaniels nationwide. For pointing breeds, the Junior Hunter (JH) title requires 4 qualifying scores; Senior Hunter (SH) requires 5 (or 4 with a JH title); Master Hunter (MH) requires 6 (or 5 with an SH title). Retriever programs follow a similar structure. AKC field trials are competitive events with placements across puppy through open all-age stakes, run on foot or horseback depending on the sponsoring club.
NAVHDA — the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association — evaluates versatile breeds through the Natural Ability test (dogs 3–16 months, tested on innate instincts) and the Utility test (one of the most demanding assessments of a finished hunting dog in North America). NAVHDA chapters provide training community and mentorship alongside the formal test program — the structure is as valuable as the titles.
NSTRA — the National Shoot to Retrieve Association — runs foot-handled field trials scored on finds, retrieves, backing, ground coverage, and obedience. If you want competition that closely mirrors actual hunting, NSTRA is the format. Events are held at local clubs throughout the hunting season and are welcoming to new competitors.
UKC — the United Kennel Club — operates one of the broadest competitive programs in American dog sport across multiple breeds and disciplines. Gun dog programs include pointing dog field trials, the Hunting Retriever Club (HRC) program with five levels from Started through Grand and Upland, Beagle trials, Coonhound events, Cur and Feist competitions, and upland programs that affiliate with NSTRA and the United Field Trialers Association. UKC officially recognizes American Field events and AFTCA championships on UKC pedigrees.
American Field and AFTCA — The American Field publishes the Field Dog Stud Book, the oldest pointing dog registry in North America. The Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America (AFTCA) is the governing body for amateur pointing dog competition, with over 100 years of history.
Gear for Field Trial Host Organizations
Behind every successful field trial or hunt test is a host organization that arrived early, set up the course, managed the birds, and kept the event running on time. Dogs Unlimited carries what host organizations depend on: bird bags, bird crates from Kuhl and Ruff Land, bird catching nets, blank pistols and ammunition, stake-out gear, and event management supplies. We've been supplying host organizations since 1971 — we know what actually gets used and what doesn't. Call us at 800-338-3647 for bulk orders or event-specific questions.
Frequently Asked Questions: Field Trials and Hunt Tests
What is the difference between a field trial and a hunt test?
A field trial is competitive — dogs run against each other in a stake and are ranked, with placements awarded to the top finishers. A hunt test evaluates each dog against a set standard; any dog meeting the standard qualifies regardless of how others perform. Hunt tests are the recommended starting point for most handlers new to competition.
What are the AKC Junior Hunter, Senior Hunter, and Master Hunter titles?
The AKC hunt test title program progresses in three levels across separate programs for retrievers, pointing breeds, and flushing spaniels. For pointing breeds: the Junior Hunter (JH) requires 4 qualifying scores; the Senior Hunter (SH) requires 5 qualifying scores, or 4 if the dog already holds a JH title; the Master Hunter (MH) requires 6 qualifying scores, or 5 if the dog already holds an SH title. Retriever requirements follow a similar structure — check the current AKC regulations for your specific breed program as requirements can vary. Dogs are scored on a 0–10 scale across ability categories; a qualifying score requires a minimum of 5 in each category and an overall average of 7.0 or above.
What is the NAVHDA Natural Ability test?
The NAVHDA Natural Ability (NA) test evaluates versatile breed dogs between 3 and 16 months on their innate hunting instincts before formal training has shaped them. Dogs are scored on nose, search, water affinity, tracking, pointing, and desire to work. It gives breeders and owners an objective picture of a young dog's natural potential and is one of the most important early evaluations a versatile hunting dog can receive.
How do I prepare for my first hunt test?
Read the rulebook for your specific organization before you do anything else. Attend a test as a spectator before you enter — watch how the format runs, talk to handlers, ask questions. Enter only when your dog is solid on the commands the test evaluates. See our training books and DVDs for organization-specific preparation programs from proven trainers.
Can I use a GPS collar during a field trial or hunt test?
Rules vary strictly by organization. NAVHDA does not allow GPS collars during testing. AKC pointing breed field trials require tracking to be off while dogs are under judgment. American Field and AFTCA rules have been updated to address GPS and recovery devices. Always verify the specific rules for your organization and event level before the trial. Our GPS systems from Garmin and Dogtra include models used in AKC and American Field events — call us to confirm compliance for your specific organization.
Where do I find field trial and hunt test events?
AKC events at akc.org, NAVHDA chapter events at navhda.org, NSTRA trials at nstra.org, UKC events at ukcdogs.com, and American Field events including AFTCA-sanctioned championships at americanfield.com. Local breed clubs often host events not listed on national calendars — connecting with a local club is the fastest way to find events, training partners, and experienced mentors.
Related Resources
- Whistles & Lanyards — competition-grade whistles for every format and organization
- Health & Wellness — keeping a competition dog sound through a full trial season
- Upland Hunting — the field skills that underpin pointing breed competition
- Waterfowl Hunting — the retriever foundation that carries into hunt test work
- All Activities — training and season guides for every discipline
Since 1971, Dogs Unlimited has been the source serious competitors, professional trainers, and host organizations trust for field trial and hunt test gear. From the dog's collar to the host club's bird crates, we carry what the competition community actually uses. Questions? Call us at 800-338-3647 — we're hunters and competitors too.