NAVHDA International provides an accurate, complete performance evaluation on each dog tested.
Valid, meaningful tests for versatile hunting dogs must be conducted in an environment that reflects actual hunting conditions, and they must test the important qualities of a good versatile dog. Judges must be knowledgeable, consistent and objective, and all testing and evaluation should reflect the extent to which dogs are productive hunting companions. NAVHDA tests have been designed with these requirements in mind. In addition, our database provides an accurate, searchable, and complete performance evaluation on each dog tested.
In order to eliminate direct competition between dogs, entrants in a NAVHDA test are judged one at a time, by three judges, with their performance scored against a standard. The only exception to this is the Invitational Test, in which dogs are braced in the field so each dog can demonstrate its willingness to back and work effectively with another dog. Prizes are awarded on the basis of numerical scores achieved in the test. Each dog that meets or exceeds minimum standards in all areas of work is placed in one of three categories: Prize I, II or III. If all dogs entered in a NAVHDA test perform well, all can receive a prize.
If you are interested in testing your dog or learning more about the specific tests NAVHDA International offers, please see the Test Entry Guidelines along with the Aims, Programs & Test Rules.
Test entry is comprised of two steps:
• Submitting the Test Application through NAVHDA International’s online Member Portal. Please refer to the previous section for instructions on how to submit a Test Application through NAVHDA International’s online Member Portal.
• Payment of the Test Entry Fee
TEST APPLICATION(S) GUIDELINES
| Test Format | International Only Members | Texas Chapter Members |
|---|---|---|
|
NA, UPT, UT |
$250 |
$225 |
Test entry will not be processed until both the test application and payment are received.
Fees are based on the Chapter membership status of the dog owner identified on the test application as of the date 30 days prior to the date the Test Application is submitted, not the dog handler unless they are the same.
Texas NAVHDA now utilizes NAVHDA International’s new online Member Portal to accept test applications.
Before registering for a test, you must first create a profile on the NAVHDA International Member Portal. For instructions on how to create a NAVHDA International Member Portal profile, please visit https://www.navhda.org/portal-faq/.
The online test application process may seem complex initially. To assist Texas NAVHDA’s lifetime members, active members, and friends, please review this step-by-step guide to help you through the application submission process.
If you plan to enter multiple dogs, you will need to repeat this process for each dog.
Important: Submitting a test entry does not guarantee a spot in the test. Your participation will only be confirmed after payment is received and you have received confirmation from Texas NAVHDA’s Test Secretary.
For any questions, please contact Blake Daniel, Test Secretary, at testsecretary@txnavhda.com.
Make check payable to Texas Chapter of NAVHDA
Mail check to:
Texas NAVHDA
PO Box 471074
Fort Worth, Texas 76147
Send payment to one of the following:
Venmo: @TexasNavhda
Zelle: treasurer@txnavhda.com
NAVHDA International offers four levels of testing: Natural Ability (NA), Utility Prep Test (UPT), Utility Test (UT), and the Invitational Test (IT). Below are details for each level of testing hosted by Texas NAVHDA. For more information, Click Here to view NAVHDA International’s official Aims, Programs, and Test Rules.
Natural Ability Test Eligibility
1. Field Phase
The dog is hunted in cover where the presence of game has been assured by releasing of game birds. Each dog is hunted for a minimum of 20 minutes and is evaluated on:
2. Tracking Phase
The dog is given an opportunity to track a flightless running pheasant or chukar. Each dog is judged on the following items:
3. Water Phase
The dog is tested for its willingness to swim. The following items are judged during the water test:
4. Evaluation of Physical Attributes
Each dog’s teeth, eyes, and coat are evaluated, typically after completion of the water phase.
1. Field Group
Each dog is hunted for a minimum of 25 minutes and is evaluated on:
2. Water Group
3. Evaluation of Physical Attributes
Each dog’s teeth, eyes, and coat are evaluated, typically after completion of the water phase.
The following are judged throughout the Utility Preparatory Test:
Each dog’s teeth, eyes, and coat are evaluated, typically after completion of the water phase.
1. Field Group
Each dog is hunted for a minimum of 30 minutes and is evaluated on:
2. Water Group
3. Evaluation of Physical Attributes
Each dog’s teeth, eyes, and coat are evaluated, typically after completion of the water phase.
The following are judged throughout the Utility Test:
