EARTHDOG TEST

RULES & REGULATIONS

The purpose of the WKG Earthdog Tests is to promote, preserve and recognize the working characteristics of Dachshunds and those Terrier breeds that

were bred to go to ground on quarry such as Fox,

Badger, Otter and bolt, bay or draw the quarry.

 Earthdog Tests Defined & Classified

A sanctioned earthdog test is a formal event given by a WKG accredited club at which dogs may qualify for titles.

Clubs may offer any or all classes at approved or sanctioned club events. However, if offering the advanced class, the club must offer the master class.

GENERAL RULES & REGULATIONS

Eligibility of Clubs to Hold Earthdog Tests WKG accredited clubs or associations in good standing with the WKG are eligible to apply for and hold an earthdog test.

Adverse Weather Conditions

During adverse and/or severe weather conditions, it is at the discretion of the event giving club to cancel, curtail and/or postpone the judging of the event if the weather is severe enough to cause injury to the exhibitor and their dog.

Making Application

 A club or association applying for an earthdog test must make application by the WKG. The Event Date Application must be  submitted so as to be received not less than 90 days prior to the date of the proposed test. The WKG will notify the club whether or not approval has been granted.

Only a club in good standing with the WKG may make application for test dates.

The WKG shall have the authority to grant or withhold approval of an application for test dates.

WKG Publications

All clubs holding earthdog tests are required to have a copy of the latest editions of these Earthdog Test Rules and Regulations available at the test.

Advertising

 A club must not advertise the names of the judges until the club has received official notification from the WKG that the judges have been approved.

Officials and Committees

Any club or association holding an earthdog test

under these rules must select a Chair of the Earthdog Test committee and an Earthdog Test Secretary and their names must appear in the premium list.

Only those persons in good standing with the WKG may act in any official capacity at earthdog tests.

Earthdog Test Committee

A club that has been granted permission by the WKG to hold a test is responsible for the formation of an Earthdog Test Committee. The Earthdog Test Committee, under the guidance of the Chair shall

have complete responsibility for the planning and conducting of the event. The Committee shall be comprised of at least members of the club and may include the Earthdog Test Secretary, but the Earthdog Test Secretary shall not be designated as the Earthdog Test Committee Chair.

A club that has been granted permission by the WKG to hold a test shall be held responsible for compliance with all of the applicable Earthdog Test Rules and Regulations, except those coming under

the jurisdiction of the judge.

The Test Committee will have complete responsibility for planning and conducting the event and shall ensure the safe, efficient and orderly conduct of the event. The Committee must have on hand,

on the day of the test, assistance and materials sufficient to efficiently make repairs to the test area and must ensure that the area is free of dangerous materials or conditions.

The Test Committee and officials of the club holding the test are responsible for providing the quarry, den liners, test material, facilities and equipment which meet the requirements of the Regulations.

The Earthdog Test Committee of a club holding an approved earthdog test shall have the authority to decide upon any matter arising during the running of the earthdog test, except a matter coming within the jurisdiction of the judge.

Stewards

The Test Committee must appoint the stewards necessary for the efficient running of the test. The various stewards and their roles are defined as follows:

Gate Steward: Individual who manages the running board, checking in dogs, ticking them off when they run, making adjustments to running order to ensure smooth running of the test. A gate steward may handle the board for more than one class if they are running simultaneously.

Den Steward: Individual who is positioned at the entrance to the actual den area. They allow the next handler and dog to enter when the judge is ready, call out the number or remind the handler to do so

and take the collar and leash if requested by the handler. They may also need to respond to questions especially.

Judge’s Steward: Individual who assists the judge in managing the quarry and in managing the barriers. The judge’s steward may also act as a timekeeper at the judge’s discretion.

Handler with Disability

At the judge’s discretion a modification to the exer cise/routine may be made to accommodate a handler with disabilities providing that such modification does not aid the dog’s performance or inhibit other

dogs and the dog is required to perform all exercises/routines.

JUDGES

Application for Approval of Judges

The application must set forth the names of the persons selected to judge as well as the classes assigned to each judge.

Judges’ Guidelines

The Judge is responsible for making the test meaningful and challenging, but never out of reach of the dog and handler who, at an Introduction to Quarry test may never have been presented with open earth before. The Judge’s function is to educate as well as evaluate.

If in the Judge’s opinion, a dog’s performance was prejudiced by peculiar and unusual conditions, the dog may be re-tested either immediately or later in the day at the discretion of the judge.

A judge may enter a dog in any class that he is not officiating at.

Judges’ Responsibility

The Judge is responsible for control of the test area, and for ensuring that the quarry is properly cared for during the event.

The Judge must check the quarry, test layout, and den liners before starting the test. The Judge shall also supervise the scenting and covering the dens before starting the test. If the Judge deems the facilities, test layout, or den construction inadequate for the event and no corrections or modifications can be made, the Judge shall cancel the event. The Test committee and the Judge shall have the option of re-scheduling the event.

Judges should bear in mind that their demeanor will have a definite effect on the enjoyment of the sport and thus will affect the future of the sport.

Judges’ Decision Final

The decisions of the Judge shall be final in all matters relating to the performance of the dog. Full discretionary authority is given to the Judge to withhold any and all scores for want of merit.

 Substitute Judge

Where a test-giving club is notified before or after the issuance of a judging schedule that an advertised judge will not for any reason be able to fulfill his judging assignment, attempts will be made for a replacement judge.

 All changes in judging will be posted near the designated precincts of the test and all those who have entered dogs under the advertised judge shall be allowed to withdraw at any time prior to the judging of that test. All requests for withdrawal shall be in writing.

Where possible, the test-giving club will attempt to notify exhibitors of the judging change.

Indignities to a Judge

 A judge officiating at a test held under these rules shall not be subjected to any indignities of any kind during the progress of the test. It shall be the duty and obligation of the club holding the test to see that this rule is effectively carried out.

Judges Conduct

A judge must conduct himeself in a manner that is fair and not prejudicial to the sport.

LIST, CATALOGUE & JUDGING SCHEDULE

 List

 A Advertising sheet must be provided for WKG approved events dog. The following information must be listed on the cover of a аdvertising sheet:

The words “Registration is open”;

The name of the club or organization holding the event, country and city;

Date of event;

Date and closing time for entries;

Entries will close automatically when a specified limit for each test has been reached, even if the official closing date for entries has not arrived (if applicable).

“Limited Entry” if the club has chosen to limit entries;

Whether mixed breeds and unrecognized breeds can enter.

The premium list must contain the following information:

Exact location of the test

The statement “These events held under the rules of the WKG”

A list of club officers (address may be given if desired)

A list of the Event Committee members including the Event Chair

Name, address, phone number and email address of Event Secretary

Officiating judges, alternate judge if applicable

A complete list of the judges’ assignments broken down for each day

The name of the Event Representative for the area

If maximum entries are not received by closing, day of test entries will be accepted.

 The statement ‘bitches in season are allowed to compete’ or the statement ‘bitches in season are not allowed to compete’

 Requalifications are accepted pending ‘space available’. Requalifications shall be judged as the last team in the section for which they are entered

 At the time of distribution to prospective entrants,

electronic copy of the аdvertising sheet must

be sent to The World Kennel Group.

Clubs are free to include other rules and regulations as they deem necessary. However, if other rules are

included, they become part of the premium list and will be enforced.

 Catalogue

 An official catalogue must be provided for all

approved dog events.

The following information must be listed on the outside front cover or the first page of the catalogue:

 Name of the club or association holding the event

The dates of the event;

The statement “This event held under the rules of The World  Kennel Group”;

Exact location of the test;

List of the Event Committee including the Event Chair;

Name and phone number of the Event Secretary;

A complete list of the judges;

A listing of each judge’s assignments for each day.

All dogs or braces entered must be listed in the catalogue, by level and in order of event.

The information in the catalogue on each dog must be in the following order:

Catalogue number of the dog;

Registered name of the dog (in capital letters);

WKG registration number,

Date of birth;

Name of owner(s);

Registered name of sire;

Registered name of dam;

CERTIFICATION of JUDGE

I certify that _____ dogs received qualifying scores in this Earthdog Test and that the above information was entered prior to my signing this page.

________ ____________________

Date Signature of Judge

 A test-giving club shall provide a complementary copy of its catalogue to each official judge.

Judging Schedule

Dogs may be judged in the order that entries are received with the

exception of multiple entries from the same handler which should be separated whenever possible.

The judge is not expected to wait for late arriving dogs. In all classes the test giving club may make adjustments to the running order to expedite the smooth running of the tests.

Closing of Entries

Entries shall close as stated in the premium list. The closing date for advance entries shall be not less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the test. A club holding an approved earthdog test shall not accept any entries received after the closing time and date specified in the premium list.

Eligibility of Dogs & Competitors

All purebred Dachshunds and those Terriers and on the Miscellaneous list seeking eligibility that are small enough to navigate a 9 (23 centimeter) inch drain are eligible to compete in earthdog tests.

Inasmuch as Dachshunds and Terriers are hunting dogs, dogs disfigured as the result of accident or injury but otherwise qualified shall be eligible provided that the disfigurement does not interfere with functional movement.

 Dogs that are blind or deaf shall not be eligible to enter or compete. Blind means without vision, and deaf means without useful hearing.

 Bitches in season shall not be eligible to enter the test.

Disqualification & Reinstatement

Any dog disqualified for biting or viciousness shall automatically be disqualified from entering in any other event in any other discipline until such time as the dog is officially reinstated.

The judge shall have the authority to disqualify or excuse a dog which menaces, threatens or attempts to bite the judge, another person, or another dog. If a dog is twice excused for any combination of these

actions, it shall have the status of a disqualified dog.

Moving Up

A dog may be transferred to the next level provided that a written or electronic request is received not less than one hour prior to the

commencement of each test or in accordance with the conditions advertised in the premium list.

A dog that has completed the requirements for title is not required to

move up to the next level.

Health

No dog may be entered at a test if it has any communicable disease.

Dogs entered in a test must have current immunization status.

No dog may be brought onto the grounds or premises of a trial if it:

is known to have distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough or other communicable disease, or

has recovered from distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough or other communicable disease within the last 30 days.

has been housed within 30 days prior to the show, trial or test on premises on which there existed distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough or other communicable disease.

Where it is found that these rules have been contravened, the dog in question shall be removed from the show, trial or test premises/grounds and the exhibitor will be subject to disciplinary action.

Veterinarian

Every earthdog test shall have a qualified veterinarian within easy call during the entire progress of the test.

End of Test

The Test Secretary shall, within 14 days of the

completion of an approved earthdog test, forward to The World Kennel Group the official catalogue, marked to indicate whether each dog “passed” or “failed” and signed and certified by the judges and the Test Secretary along with the entry forms for all dogs entered and the complete Test Secretary’s report which shall also include all

applicable information and documentation.

A club holding an approved earthdog test shall retain an official catalogue.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

It shall be deemed unsportsmanlike conduct if a person during the running of or in connection with an event abuses or harasses a judge, trial official or any other person present in any capacity at the event.

Any handler who displays unsportsmanlike conduct or who is seen to kick, strike or otherwise roughly manhandle a dog while on the grounds of an event at any time during the holding of the event,

may be expelled from the trial by the Events Committee.

The judges shall also have the authority to expel a handler from a trial if they observe unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of the handler or see the handler kicking, striking or otherwise roughly manhandling a dog while the event is in progress. It will be the duty of the judge to report promptly to the expulsion of a handler.

Terriers and Dachshunds a standardised gauge to measure their dogs natural and
trained hunting and working abilities when exposed to a hunting situation. The noncompetitive program begins with a basic Earthdog Instinct Certificate and progresses
through gradual steps to require the dog to demonstrate that it is capable of being
trained to follow game to ground and work its quarry.

Classes, Qualifying Scores, Awarding of Titles
Classes
Clubs may offer any or all classes at events. All classes are open to all eligible dogs
 Classes are run in the order determined by the Test Committee.
Instinct Test Class

In order to be recorded as having an Earthdog Instinct Certificate must have a record of having qualified in the Earthdog Instinct Test in 2 Dogs WKG tests under two different judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, a Dogs WKG Earthdog Instinct Certificate will be issued to the owner and the dog shall be identified with an Earthdog Instinct Certificate in all official Dogs WKG records.

Junior Earthdog Class

The Junior Earthdog class is open to all eligible dogs.

In order to be recorded as a Junior Earthdog, a dog must be registered in the WKG and must have a record of having qualified in the Junior Earthdog test in two (2) Dogs WKG club tests under two different Judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, a WKG Junior Earthdog (JE) certificate.

A dog that has been recorded as a Junior Earthdog may continue to enter the Junior Earthdog test, but no further Junior Earthdog certificates will be issued.

Senior Earthdog Class

The Senior Earthdog class is open only to dogs that have acquired the Junior Earthdog title.

In order to be recorded as a Senior Earthdog, a dog must be registered in WKG and must have a record of having qualified in the Senior Earthdog test at three (3) Dogs WKG club tests under two different Judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, a Dogs WKG Senior Earthdog (SE)certificate will be issued to the owner.

Dogs that have qualified in the Senior Earthdog test at a Dogs WKG test are ineligible to enter Junior Earthdog tests.

Master Earthdog Class

The Master Earthdog class is open only to dogs that have acquired the Senior Earthdog title.

In order to be recorded as a Master Earthdog, a dog must be registered in WKG and must have a record of having qualified in the Master Earthdog test at 3 Dogs WKG club hunting tests under two different Judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, a Dogs WKG Master Earthdog certificate will be issued to the owner.

Dogs that have qualified in a Master Earthdog test at a Dogs WKG club test are ineligible to enter Junior Earthdog tests.

Earthdog Champion Class

The Earthdog Champion Class is open only to dogs that have acquired the Master Earthdog title.

In order to be recorded as a Earthdog Champion, a dog must be registered in WKG and must have a record of having qualified in the Earthdog Champion test at 3 Dogs WKG club hunting tests under two different Judges.

Den Specification, Running and Judging,

Test and Performance Descriptions

Test Area Conditions and Dimensions

The test area for the Earthdog Instinct Test shall be no less than 12 metres x 12 metres (40 feet by 40 feet). The den shall be situated in the test area in a way that fences do

not guide or hinder dogs from finding and entering the den.

The test area(s) for all tests shall be of a size sufficient to contain the dens, with no

portion of the den including the point of release less than 6 metres (20 feet) from the

edge of the testarea.

Clubs should use a barrier or otherwise demarcate a test area to prevent spectator

interference with the work of thedogs.

The earth shall be prepared to look as natural as possible. Brush and other natural
material may be used to prepare the earth but should not block the entrance to the
earth (except in the Master Earthdog test). The entrance should look as inviting to the
dog as possible. The test area for all tests shall be clearly marked, shall not contain
unsafe conditions and shall be free of dangerous materials. The liners for the dens shall be constructed to ensure a safe and danger free environment for dogs, handlers and Judges. The basic den construction allows for a tunnel approximately 22.8 centimetres x 22.8 centimetres (9 inches by 9 inches), which is a large enough for all dogs of earthdog type.
The liners shall be set in the ground or on top of the ground. When the liners are set in the ground, the top surface must be flush with the ground and must be covered in material, so it appears natural. When the liners are placed on top of the ground, they must be fully covered with natural materials so that none of the liner is visible. In both

cases the appearance should be as natural as possible to simulate an actual den.

The dens shall be located so as to minimise outside distractions. On the day of the test no dog shall be allowed to enter the earth unless competing until the conclusion of the tests. The Judge shall oversee the placement of the liners and scenting of the den on the day of the test. Only the dog currently being tested shall be allowed in the test area. Under no circumstances shall more than one dog be allowed in the test area at any time. Spectators shall be allowed outside the test area provided that they are quiet and do not distract the dogs. The dogs shall be allowed in the area immediately adjacent to the test area. The dogs waiting to be tested shall be kept at least 30 metres (100 feet) approximately from the perimeter of the test area, in a holding area sodesignated.

The dens shall be scented with the quarry’s scent. In the Earthdog Instinct Test and Junior Earthdog tests, the entire length of the den must be scented no more than one hour before the start of the test. In the Senior and Master Earthdog tests, the scent line shall be laid only on the primary quarry trail.

Extreme care must be taken not to allow false trails to receive any scent, which may unnecessarily confuse the dogs. The Judge shall be responsible for overseeing the correct scenting of the dens.

The scent trail shall be laid from the quarry to a point 61 centimetres (2 feet) past the entrance of the den. If, in the opinion of the Judge, the scent trail has weakened due to the number of dogs entering the earth, the scent trail may be re-scented. Care should be taken by those scenting the earth to lay the scent trail in a manner consistent with real lifeconditions.

In Earthdog Instinct Certificate, Junior Earthdog, Senior Earthdog and Master Earthdog, the bars that prevent the dog from accessing the quarry must be made of wooden dowl. Metal is not acceptable.

Quarry Requirements and Care

This must satisfy the requirements of the Government Act pertaining to Animal Welfare that applies at the time. Non-live quarry should appear as natural as possible;

examples include carcasses, skins, tails, fake quarry (with or without

sound/mechanisation). Food items are not acceptable as quarry (it is not permitted to use mince, chicken or “treats”). All quarry is used at the discretion of theJudge.

Qualifying Performances

The Judge’s certification of a qualifying performance for any dog constitutes certification to the Dogs WKG that the dog on this ccasion has evidenced abilities at least in accordance with minimum standards and that the abilities demonstrated justify the awarding of the title for the class. A qualifying score must never be awarded to a dog, which has not exhibited abilities that meet the minimum requirements.

Earthdog Instinct Test

This test is a simple instinct test requiring no exposure to earthwork. It is not a prerequisite for the Junior Earthdog Test except in the case of Associate Registered dogs.

Young dogs, dogs with no previous working experience and junior handlers are encouraged to enter. In as much as it may be the first den experience for some dogs, the Judge and the handler shall do their utmost to assure that it is a positive experience for the dog. The Judge shall be allowed to use discretion in encouraging the dog by

scratching or moving the quarry, or some other method felt ecessary to get a true reaction from the dog.

The dog shall be brought to the test area entrance on a lead. The Steward shall instruct the handler to remove the collar and lead and the handler shall carry the dog to the starting marker. The judge must make sure that each handler understands the test requirements before starting thedog.

Earthdog Instinct Test – Den Design

 The den for the test shall have standard liners approximately 22.8 centimetres x 22.8 centimetres (9 inches), set so as to provide a tunnel approximately 3 metres (10 feet) in length with one 90 degree turn. The handler shall release the dog from a point directly in front of the den, approximately 3 metres (10 feet) from the entrance. The Judge and Steward shall attempt to provide as little distraction as possible.

Earthdog Instinct Test – Qualifying Performance

The Judge shall direct the handler to release the dog. The handler shall release the dog from a point no higher than waist level. Placing the dog on the ground before release is permitted. Throwing the dog in the direction of the den entrance shall not be permitted and shall cause the dog to fail. The handler may provide unlimited verbal

encouragement and may move around the test area. The handler may not enter the hide, touch the dog or any equipment, or reprimand the dog

The Judge or the Steward shall time the test. The dog shall be allowed 2 minutes from the time it is released to when it begins working the quarry. The dog shall not qualify if it requires over 2 minutes to reach the quarry.

The dog may exit and re-enter the earth during the time allowed, provided it has not started working thequarry.

Once the dog begins working the quarry, the Judge or Steward shall begin timing the working time and shall continue timing until the dog quits or the time limit is reached.

Once the dog begins working it must work continuously for 30 seconds. Work is defined as digging, barking, growling, lunging, biting at the quarry or any other action which, in the opinion of the Judge, indicates the dog’s interest in the quarry. Any definite break in the dog’s work shall stop the time, but a change from one form of work to another shall not stop the time as long as the dog continues working in a natural manner.

If, in the Judge’s opinion, the dog is not reacting to the presence of the quarry, the Judge may attempt to interest the dog with no penalty to the dog. This may include shaking the quarry; tapping or scratching the den liner or use of a noisemaker.

Dogs which reach the quarry within two minutes and work continuously for 30 seconds shall qualify.

At the completion of the test, the Judge shall announce the names of those dogs which have qualified. The test-giving Club may award prizes or trophies to the dogs that have qualified.

Junior Earthdog Test

The evaluation of a dog’s ability can never be precise. However, the primary purpose of the small Terriers and Dachshunds is to pursue quarry to ground, hold the game and alert the hunter where to dig, or to bolt. Whether the dog is successful in its primary purpose is determined by its possession of a unique set of natural abilities. This test is designed to help evaluate these natural abilities.

The test shall consist of two parts, (a) the approach to the quarry and (b) working the quarry. In order to qualify, a dog must pass both parts of the test.

Junior Earthdog Test – Den Design

The den for the Junior Earthdog Test shall be constructed using the standard liners approximately 22.8 centimetres x 22.8 centimetres (9 inches by 9 inches), set in such a manner as to provide a tunnel approximately 9 metres (30 feet) in length with three 90 degree turns. The tunnel shall have an entrance at one end and a quarry area at

the other end, which shall provide the Judge a view of the dog during the working portion of the test. The dogs should be removed from the den by way of the exit provided at the quarry end of the den. The den shall have no additional entrances, exits or dead ends.

Junior Earthdog Test – Qualifying Performance

 Each dog shall be brought to the test area entrance by the handler who shall remove all leads, collars, harnesses, etc before entering the test area. The handler shall carry the dog into the test area and stand at the designated starting point, a point directly in front of the den entrance at a distance of approximately 3 metres (10 feet). Upon

instructions from the Judge, the handler shall release the dog. The handler may provide unlimited verbal encouragement. The dog should be released no higher than waist level and may be placed on the ground prior to release. Throwing the dog in the direction of

the den entrance shall not be permitted and shall cause the dog to fail.

The timing of the dog shall start when the dog is released by the handler. The dog has 90 seconds to reach the quarry, provided that it is continuously searching during that time. It may enter and leave the den without penalty, but must reach the quarry within the 90 second time limit. Dogs reaching the quarry within the 90 second time limit shall pass this portion of the test. The handler may provide unlimited verbal encouragement. The handler must not move past the den entrance, may not touch the dog or any equipment, or reprimand the dog.

Once the dog has reached the quarry it must remain with the quarry until the test is completed. Should the dog leave the quarry area during the test period it shall fail. The Judge shall allow the dog 30 seconds from the time it reached the quarry to begin working. If the dog fails to begin working within 30 seconds the dog shall fail this portion of the test.

The work must begin and for the most part continue at a point within approximately 30 centimetres (1 foot) from the quarry. Once the dog begins working the quarry it must work continuously for 45 seconds. Work shall be defined as barking, growling, digging or any form of activity which, in the Judge’s opinion, indicated the dog’s interest in the quarry. A change from one form of work to another shall not be considered as a break. Lunging and clearing dirt shall be considered work, as long as the dog stays with the quarry. Intense staring and / or sniffing the quarry should not be considered working. If in the opinion of the judge the dog is not reacting to the presence of the non-live quarry, the judge may attempt to interest the dog with no penalty to the dog. This may include manipulating the non-live quarry or the use of noisemakers or voice encouragement.

Dogs, which work the quarry continuously for 45 seconds, shall pass this portion of the test. Upon completion of the test, the Judge should allow the handler to retrieve the dog from the earth. The dog should be removed by way of the top opening at the quarry end of the earth. The dog shall be carried from the test area as soon as possible and not be allowed to investigate the test area.

The Judge shall mark the judging form with the time indicating whether the dog passed or failed and may make written comments as provided on the form. The completed judging forms may be held by either the Judge’s Steward or the Test Steward and collected only by the Test Secretary. At the completion of the test, the Judge shall announce the names of those dogs which have qualified. The test-giving Club may award prizes or trophies to the dogs that have qualified.

Senior Earthdog Test

This test is designed to present the experienced hunter with a more realistic den situation. In the wild few natural earths are simple tunnels, they are complex, multiple entrance designs. The dog must be able to not only follow the quarry to ground and mark the game for the handler, but also be able to determine the correct direction taken

by the quarry. If the quarry has bolted (removed) the dog must leave the den when called by thehunter.

The Senior Test shall consist of threeparts:

1. The approach to the quarry

2. Working the quarry

3. Leaving the den on command

Senior Earthdog Test – Den Designs

The den shall be constructed using the standard liners approximately 22.8 centimetres x 22.8 centimetres (9 inches by 9 inches). The liners shall be set in such a manner as to provide a main tunnel approximately 9 metres (30 feet) in length with three 90 degree

turns, a false exit and false den. The false exit shall be approximately 2 metres (7 feet) in length with one 90 degree turn and set in such a manner as to not be visible to the dog or handler when standing at the point of release.

The false den shall be a side tunnel with no exit, approximately 1.2 metres (4 feet) in length with a 30.5 centimetre x 20.3 centimetre (12 x 8 inch) door located at the top not less than 7.6 centimetres (3 inches) from the end of the tunnel. Directly beneath the door shall be a pile of bedding material, i.e. straw, dry grass, heavily scented to simulate the litter/bedding area found in most natural dens.

The false exit and false den shall be set at the second and third 90 degree turns off the main tunnel, the order and placement of which shall be at the club’s discretion.

The entrance to the main tunnel shall be marked at a mound of dirt at least 10.1 centimetres (4 inches) higher than the top of the liner, thus providing a steep entrance to the den of at least 45 degree incline into the earth. The dirt mound may be camouflaged by natural cover, provided the cover does not restrict entrance to the earth.

Senior Earthdog Test – Qualifying Performance

Each dog shall be brought to the test area entrance by the handler who shall remove all leads, collars, harnesses etc before entering the test area. The handler shall carry the dog into the area and shall stand at the release point designated by the Judge (a point no less than 4.5 metres (15 feet) from the edge of the area, at a point marked by the Judge. This release point shall be approximately 6 metres (20 feet) from the entrance to the earth). Upon instruction from the Judge, the handler shall release the dog. The dog shall be released not higher than waist level and may be placed on the ground before release. Throwing the dog in the direction of the den entrance shall not be permitted and shall cause the dog to fail. The handler may provide unlimited verbal encouragement. The handler may not move past the den entrance, may not touch the dog or any equipment, or reprimand the dog.

Timing of the dog for the approach portion of the test shall start when the dog is released by the handler. The dog has 90 seconds from the time of release to reach the quarry, provided that it is continuously searching during that time. The dog must initially

enter the den through the main entrance, but may then enter and leave the den, provided it has not reached the quarry.

Once the dog has reached the quarry, it must remain with the quarry until the working portion of the test is completed. Should the dog leave the quarry area during the test it shall fail. The Judge shall allow the dog 15 seconds from the time it reached the quarry

to begin working. If the dog fails to begin working within 15 seconds the dog shall not qualify.

Work shall be defined as barking, growling, digging, or any other form of activity which, in the Judge’s opinion, indicates the dog’s interest in the quarry. A change from one form of work to another shall not be considered as a break. Lunging and clearing dirt shall be considered work. Intense staring/or sniffing the quarry should not be considered working.

Once the dog has started to work, it must work the quarry continuously for 60 seconds.

–, the judge may attempt to interest the dog with no penalty to the dog. This may include manipulation of the quarry or the use of noisemakers or voice encouragement. Dogs that work for less than the required time shall not pass.

Once the dog has completed the working portion of the test, the Judge shall seal the viewing area, remove the quarry a sufficient distance so as not to be a distraction. The Judge shall then instruct the handler to recall the dog. The handler may go to the entrance of the den to call the dog and may use a whistle. No bait, hides, noisemakers or toys may be used to recall the dog from the den. The handler is permitted to reach into the entrance of the den to retrieve thedog.

Dogs, which exit the den (from any exit) and are retrieved by the handler within 90 seconds from the recall, shall pass this portion of the test. The handler may move around the test area, calling their dog, they may not interfere with the den liners, hide or quarry. Dogs which exit the den in more than 90 seconds shall not pass.

The dog shall be carried from the test area as soon as possible and should not be allowed to investigate the test area.

Dogs must pass all three parts of the test in order to qualify.

The Judge shall mark the judging form to indicated pass or fail and may make written comments as provided on the form. The completed judging forms may be held by either the Judge’s Steward or the Test Steward and collected only the Test Secretary.

At the completion of the test, the Judge shall announce the names of those dogs, which have qualified. The test-giving club may award prizes or trophies to the dogs that have qualified.

Master Earthdog Test

This test is designed to come as close as possible to a natural hunting situation. On a natural hunt the dog is expected to locate the den and enter without encouragement. It should remain in the den working the quarry in a manner that will allow the hunter to locate both the dog and the quarry.

Master Earthdog Test – Den Design

The suggested Senior earthdog tunnel is used for the Master Test with modifications discussed below.

The den entrance shall not be readily visible and shall be blocked with an object that is able to be moved by the dog to gain entrance to the den (e.g., a hessian flap, loose grass, plastic strips, etc.). A scent line of approximately 6 metres (20 feet) shall lead to the entrance. An unscented false den entrance (visible to dogs) is located midway

along the scent line, at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) from the scent line.

There must be any two of the following obstacles located in the tunnel, neither of which shall be placed within 1.5 metres (5 feet) of the entrance or the quarry:

The constriction point consists of boards or slats approximately 3.8 centimetres wide (1.5 inches) and 45.6 centimetres (18 inches) long placed opposite each other to narrow the tunnel opening to approximately 15.2 centimetres (6 inches). The ends of the boards or slats should be bevelled or rounded.

The obstruction should be 15.2 centimetres (6 inches) diameter PVC pipe placed crossways in the tunnel and loosely mounted on a 2.54 centimetre (1 inch) dowel so that it is movable (it should move approximately 6.3 centimetres (2.5 inches) each way). The portion of the liner above the obstruction (22.8 centimetres (9 inches) on each side of the pipe’s centre line for a total of 45.6 centimetres (18 inches) is elevated at least 15.2 centimetres (6 inches) over

the main liner and naturally covered or otherwise camouflaged.

 The tendril obstruction consists of a board 9 inches (22.8 centimetres) wide by 18 inches (45.6 centimetres) long, through which has been threaded a minimum of 30 (thirty) tendrils of 9 inches (22.8 centimetres) in length. The tendrils are made of thin, flexible tubing no more than 5mm in width. This board is to replace the roof of a section of tunnel, with the tendrils hanging vertically.

(d) The sand mound obstruction consists of sand dampened with water until it holds form and built into a mound approximately 9 inches (22.8 centimetres) wide and 6 inches (15.2 centimetres) high, leaving a gap of approximately 3 inches (7.6 centimetres) between the top of the mound and the roof of the tunnel.

Master Earthdog Test – Qualifying Performance

The handler is positioned with the steward, and they proceed in the direction of the scent line from a release point approximately 50-100 metres from the real den entrance.

The steward and handler should reach the den in approximately 60 seconds. Dogs barking at the false den cannot qualify. The dog must indicate the real tunnel entrance before the Judge or Steward reaches the tunnel entrance. A second steward (or trainee

judge) may be positioned in the test area to observe the dog indicate the tunnel entrance, this is especially important when the dog reaches the den entrance before the steward or when the judge is unable to see the den entrance from within the hide.

If the dog does not indicate the tunnel entrance it cannot qualify, but can continue to be tested. Once the dog has indicated the den entrance, the second steward (or trainee judge) may remove the entrance obstruction. The handler may provide unlimited verbal encouragement. The handler may not move past the den entrance,

may not touch the dog or any equipment or reprimand the dog.

The entrance obstruction is nowremoved, if it is still in place.

A Dog must reach the quarry within 90 seconds and work the quarry for 60 seconds for non-live quarry — 90 seconds when live quarry is permitted to be used. The dog must initially enter the den through the main entrance, but may then enter and leave the den through either the false exit or the main entrance, provided it has not reached the

quarry. When the dog is working the quarry the Judge or Steward will create a distraction in the working area by lightly striking the top of the working area for 30 seconds with a piece of wood to simulate digging sounds. If in the opinion of the Judge the dog is not reacting to the presence of the non-live quarry, the judge may attempt to

interest the dog with no penalty to the dog. This may include manipulating the non-live quarry or the use of noisemakers or voice encouragement.

The dog should continue working and ignore the overhead distraction. The handler then removes the dog from the working area without injury to the handler.

Dogs must pass all parts of the test in order to qualify.

The Judges shall mark the judging form to indicate pass or fail and may make written comments as provided on the form. The completed form may be held by the Judge’s Steward or the Test Steward and collected by the Test Secretary. At the completion of

the test the Judge shall announce the names of those dogs who have qualified. The test-giving Club may award prizes or trophies to the dogs that have qualified.

Strong Dog Earthdog Test

General

The Strong Dog Earthdog Test is designed to test an earthdog’s ability to draw a small      quarry from a den.

The test shall consist of two parts:     

1          Approaching the quarry.

2          Drawing the quarry from the den to be retrieved by handler

The quarry shall consist of a weighted pelt.

Strong Dog Instinct Test

 The Strong Dog Instinct Title is open to all eligible breeds and associate registered dogs of Earthdog type.

The test shall be conducted using a modified  earthdog den design, i.e. 3 metres (10 feet) in length with one curved 90 degree turn. The dens may be either buried or above ground. The weighted quarry shall be placed at the end of the den and the full length of the den scented. The weight of the pelt shall be between 1kg and 2kg. The dog shall be given the opportunity to identify the scent just prior to being entered by the handler. The handler shall enter the dog at the entrance to the den and the dog shall be allowed two minutes to locate the quarry. The dog may give voice while undertaking the test. The dog shall be allowed five minutes to draw the quarry to the entrance of the den where the handler shall retrieve the quarry from the dog. The handler may give verbal commands to the dog throughout the test.

The dog must complete both parts of the test within the time limits in order to qualify.

Strong Dog Instinct Title

 The Strong Dog Instinct Title shall be awarded to any dog which qualifies on two separate occasions under at least two different earth dog judges.

The Judges shall mark the judging form to indicate pass or fail and may make written comments as provided on the form. The completed form may be held by the Judge’s Steward or the Test Steward and collected by the Test Secretary. At the completion of

the test the Judge shall announce the names of those dogs who have qualified. The test-giving Club may award prizes or trophies to the dogs that have qualified.

Strong Dog Junior Test

The test is eligible for dogs who already hold their SDI title.

The test shall be conducted using the normal junior earthdog den design, i.e. nine metres long with three curved ninety degree turns. The dens may be either buried or above ground. The weighted quarry shall be placed at the end of the den and the full length of the den scented. The dog shall be given the opportunity to identify the scent

just prior to being entered by the handler. The handler shall enter the dog at the entrance to the den and the dog shall be allowed one minute to locate the quarry (2-3kg). The dog shall be allowed five minutes to draw the quarry to the entrance of the den where the handler shall retrieve the quarry from the dog. The handler may give verbal commands to the dog throughout the test.

 Strong Dog Junior Title

The dog must complete both parts of the test within five minutes in order to qualify.

The title shall be awarded to any dog which qualifies on two separate occasions under a minimum of two different earth dog judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, a Dogs WKG Strong Dog Junior certificate will be issued to the owner and the dog will be identified as a Strong Dog Junior in all official Dogs WKG records

 Strong Dog Excellent Test

The test shall be conducted using the normal Junior earthdog den design, i.e. nine metres {thirty feet} long with three curved ninety degree turns. The dens may be either buried or above ground. The weighted quarry (3-4 kg) shall be placed at the end of the den and the full length of the den scented. The dog shall be given the opportunity to identify the scent just prior to being entered by the handler. The handler shall enter the dog at the entrance to the den and the dog shall be allowed one minute to locate the quarry. The dog may give voice while undertaking the test. The dog shall be allowed five minutes to draw the quarry to the entrance of the den where the handler shall retrieve the quarry from the dog. The handler may give verbal commands to the dog throughout the test.

Strong Dog Excellent Title

The dog must complete both parts of the test within the time limits in order to qualify.

The title shall be awarded to any dog which qualifies on three separate occasions under at least two different earth dog judges.

Upon completion of these requirements, an Dogs WKG Strong Dog Excellent certificate will be issued to the owner and the dog will be identified as a Strong Dog

Excellent in all official Dogs WKG records.