Practical Hunting test St. Hubert

Hunting game birds with the English Setters is our passion. Respect for game and nature is a top priority, as is safe shotgun shooting and good dogs that are trained and tested for work before and after the shot. Classic hunting dog competitions focus on the dog's natural qualities and level of training. The handler only has a supporting function.

There is another type of test, the St. Hubert hunting test. The focus here is divided equally between the dog and the hunter. St. Hubert corresponds to a practical search hunt (solo) with the pointing dog. Each participant can demonstrate their hunting skills within 20 minutes. Two game birds may be shot over the dog. In addition to the pure hunting success, the participant's knowledge of the hunting practice, safety, handling of the weapon, use of the terrain, hunting sense and hunting fairness as well as the cooperation with the dog and its way of working are assessed.

At national level, St. Hubert are carried out by the four Clubs for British Pointing dogs. Since my youth, I have taken part in many times with my dog. At international level, a St. Hubert takes place every year as part of the World Championship for Pointing Dogs where two teams (women/men) are sent per nation. I have competed here with my four-legged friend several times, often with great success.

For me, competing in the St. Hubert discipline represents the best possible preparation of both, dog and hunter, for the practical hunting (season). It includes the ethical principles of not only training and educating the dog, but also the own skills as a hunter.