Field trial

Field trials and hunt tests are both retriever sports, but they ask different things of the dog and the owner. People mix up the names, so it helps to separate them.

Field trial versus hunt test

The AKC says a hunt test scores dogs individually and does not name a winner as a field trial does. Hunt tests were created for hunters with good retrievers who lacked the resources or time to be competitive in field trials.

Field trial dogs are typically run at a very high level of handling and marking precision, often by experienced amateurs or professionals.

Richard's background

Under Billy Sargenti, Richard worked with field trial retrievers at varying levels and learned the Rex Carr method for Retriever Basics. He also works with hunt test dogs and everyday hunting dogs, so owners can ask him about either path.

What it means for you

A hunter can choose hunt tests, field trials or no events at all. See hunt test for that route and the AKC vs HRC comparison to help you choose a club and level.