Testing

  NAVHDA chapters sponsor four kinds of tests:

• The Natural Ability Test (NA) is designed to evaluate the inherent natural abilities of young dogs and gain insight into their possible usefulness as versatile gun dogs. It rates seven important inherited abilities: nose, search, tracking, pointing, water, desire and cooperation. Dogs are eligible for a Natural Ability Test up until, and including, the day they reach 16 months of age. Dogs over 16 months may be run for evaluation only. Dogs over 16 months may only be run if space is available. No prize classification can be awarded the dog run for evaluation.

NAVHDA International has produced a great video that explains the Natural Ability test.

•  The Utility Preparatory Test (UPT) measures the dogs’ development midway through their training toward the Utility Test. No previous testing required.
• The Utility Test (UT) evaluates trained dogs in water and field, before and after the shot, as finished versatile hunting companions as well as many other specific tasks. No previous testing required.

There is an additional test, the Invitational, that Prize I Utility dogs are invited to.  Our chapter is proud to have several dogs that have earned the title of Versatile Champion at the Invitational.

​​We encourage every versatile gun dog to be NAVHDA tested, as the test tells you where your dog's abilities are at and serves as the foundation for improving our versatile breeds. 

 The tests are qualitative evaluations to proven performance standards in simulated hunting conditions.
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In testing, dogs are judged one at a time by three judges, with their performance scored against a standard.  Prizes are based on numerical scores achieved in the test. The dog must meet or exceed a minimum standard in all areas of work to receive a prize. There are three categories of prizes: I, II and III, with Prize I being the highest classification.

​ For more information or to register for a test, please visit our test Registration page.