2009 Maryland Retriever Gundog Championship Rules
This stake will test retriever gundogs with simulated hunting situations and distances on land and water.. Both marked retrieves (that the dog has seen fall) and blind retrieves (that the dog did not see fall) will be required. Scenarios and situations will be presented to the handlers with any instructions for completing the test. An honor may be included.
All dogs start each series with zero points. Points are assessed for faults demonstrated by the dog as each test is run. Points are not carried from one series to the next. The dog with the lowest number of points at the end of the last series wins.
After the first series is complete 24 dogs or half the field (which ever is less) with the lowest score will be called back.. At the end of the second series the 12 lowest scoring dogs or half the field (whichever is lowest) will be invited to run the third series. From these 12 (or fewer dogs) the winner will be the dog with the lowest score. In the last series each dog will be timed. In the event of a tie the dog with the fastest time will be the winner. That dog will be the Maryland Retriever Gundog Champion for 2009.
Following is a list of the points assessed per fault.
- 1 point is given for each whistle blown on marked or blind retrieves in order to handle the dog to the bird. Verbal commands in lieu of whistle commands count one point
- 5 points for each controlled break.
- 5 points for each recast.
- 5 points for excessive noise.
- 5 points for leaving the area of the fall after establishing a hunt. (Judges will define the area of the fall for each mark)
- 10 points for switching
- 10 points for returning to an old fall (a bird the dog has already retrieved)
Automatic elimination will occur for the following:
- Breaking
- Not delivering the bird to hand or releasing it to the handler or chewing or eating the bird
- Unsportsmanlike conduct
- Dog fighting
- Handler abuse of the dog
Handlers must wear dull or dark clothing (no white coats) and handle an unloaded gun in a safe manner.
Collars and any other training equipment are not allowed while running your dog.
The decision of the judges is final.