Pointing work: locating and indicating game

An indication with a context

A still photograph of a dog in a pointing posture does not establish a verified find or trained field performance. Explain what is known about the setting, the target and the observer. If the image is a portrait, caption it as such rather than inventing a successful working sequence.

Working type and trial type

Pointers, setters and other pointing gundogs may be discussed under different breed and competition frameworks. Use the specific organiser’s rules when naming a test or title. Shared terminology does not mean that all organisations use the same eligibility, course, conditions or awards.

A responsible introduction

Start through an experienced club and confirm permissions for the venue and activity. Do not encourage a pet owner to seek out wildlife to test instinct. Introductory handling and assessment can be discussed before any live-game field activity is considered under the applicable requirements.

What the record should say

Keep ancestry, demonstrated work and official results separate. A pedigree field title belongs to the ancestor named in the source, not automatically to its offspring. A dog’s own record needs a dated event or a clearly described assessment, including the authority and class where applicable.

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• Dogs Australia — rules for all pointing breeds of gundogs (opens in a new tab)

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