Hunting Dog Skills Test

Field Trial Competition

On Saturday, the 16th of February, nine dogs and their owners competed in the sixth annual RR "Dog" Lyons Memorial Field Trial Competition.  This competition takes place at Haleakala Ranch in Maui, Hawaii and is the only one of its kind left in the state.  

These competitions do not involve guns amazingly enough. The competition is not the act of hunting on the human's part, it is about testing the skill and agility of the hunting dogs.  Dogs must flush out birds at required distances and in the correct direction. This is no easy task either. The dogs must be trained to find the correct hiding spot, and not come out until they hear a call or dog whistle from their handlers. 

Many of the handlers are very experienced in dog training and one handler even brought an 18 month old Brittany Spaniel named Glenn.  Glenn took first in the derby stake competition, which is for dogs between 6 months and 2 years.  But whether it is a new pup or an experienced hound, these events are perfect for catching some fresh air with the dogs and engaging in some friendly competition.

Photo Courtesy of craigemorsels