Natural Ability (NA) Test
Natural Ability Test Eligibility
Dogs are eligible for a Natural Ability Test until and including the day they reach 16 months of age. Dogs over 16 months may be tested for evaluation if space is available, but no prize classifications are awarded dogs tested for evaluation. No game is shot during the NA test , and no retrieves are required. There is no set sequence for conducting the four general phases.
The Natural Ability Test is organized into four main segments, or phases, as follows:
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:
- Use of Nose
- Search
- Pointing
- Desire to Work
- Cooperation
- Gun Shyness
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:
- Use of Nose
- Tracking
- Desire to Work
- Cooperation
3. Water Phase - The dog is tested for its willingness to swim. The following items are judged during the water test:
- Water Entry
- Desire to Work
- Cooperation
4. Evaluation of Physical Attributes - Each dog's teeth, eyes, and coat are evaluated, typically after completion of the water phase.