Hunt Tests

Divided into three levels, the dogs are judged against a set of clearly defined standards and not against each other.  A dog must pass three individual tests at one level to be awarded the appropriate title.  The initials representing this success shall be placed at the end of the dog's registered CKC name.  The stakes will be designed to represent an actual hunting situation.  Prior to starting a series the judges will explain the scenario. Handlers and spectators are to be dressed in dark or camouflage clothing; white or other light coloured clothing is not allowed on the line or in the gallery.

Junior Hunt Test (JH)  is similar to the WC level being a land series of back-to-back single marks followed by a series of back-to-back single water marks.  The retriever must display good line manners and delivery to hand is mandatory.

Senior Hunt Test (SH) level has a total of five series that include: a land double, a quartering test, a land blind, a water double and a water blind.  The dog must be steady during all series and shall be brought to line off leash.  Collars may not be worn and leashes must be out of sight.  The line is generally considered to be level with the holding blind and once he has completed his test the leash may be placed on the dog once he has passed it.  The judges will specify this when they give the hunt scenario.  On one of the two mark series, the running dog will remain on the line for an honour.

Master Hunt Test (MH) is the most difficult level to achieve, dogs obtaining this level have proven endurance, trainability, markability; that overall they have proven they would indeed be a great companion and conservation tool.  Although the series run are similar to that as in the Senior level, i.e. land and water series for both marks and blinds; the distances and cover are more difficult than for the Senior level.  The discipline required in line manners, delivery and handling must be perfect; no errors are accepted.  People in the retriever world look up to both the dogs and handlers who have achieved the title of Master Hunter with great respect.