Minnesota Bird Hunters Association
First and foremost, the MBHA provides an opportunity to enjoy good dog
work and the camaraderie of fellow pointing dog enthusiasts.  These 
trials provide an opportunity to prove a dog in competition.  However,
our focus is on the process of improving our dogs.  If you have never
participated in a field trial …. Don’t worry, any member of the club
will be happy to help get you started.

The MBHA follows the judgment criteria of the American Bird Hunters
Association (ABHA) which is fully sanctioned and recognized by the 
Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America (AFTCA).  Therefore, ABHA trials
are nationally recognized by the Field Dog Stud Book (FDSB) and any
placements are recognized in the pedigree of any animal registered 
with the FDSB.

MBHA trials and judgment criteria focus on traits that constitute the
ultimate foot hunting gun dog.  Judgment criteria is based on the dog’s
age.  Age groups and judgment criteria are outlined below.  This is by
no means a complete accounting of the criteria by which an animal is 
judged.

I.  SHOOTING DOGS are judged on the following criteria.

A. Steady to flush.  Specifically, this means the dog may not move after
   the dog has established point.
B. Ground application.  Shooting dogs should posses intense desire to 
   find birds.  They should display speed, stamina, industry and 
   independence.  At the same time, their search should lead them to 
   logical objectives where birds would likely be found.  Shooting Dogs
   should also adjust their pace and range to be most effective for the 
   work at hand.  In other words, they should adjust to the cover.   
C. Handling.  Shooting dogs should be quick to locate their handler and
   respond kindly to commands.   
D. Bird Finding.  Keen ability to detect the presence of game, and to 
   locate it accurately and promptly.         	 
E. Backing.  Shooting dog are required to back if the situation presents
   itself.   
F. Retrieving.  Placement for shooting dogs requires a retrieve. 
G. Other.  Some additional factors in consideration of placements are:
    1. Style of carriage and grace of movement.
    2. Willingness to face heavy cover or other handicaps. 
    3. Intensity on point.
    4. Handling birds at an exceptional distance.  

II. DERBY DOGS (Born after 1/1/00) are judged on their potential as a 
    finished Shooting Dog.  They should demonstrate:
     A. Speed and stamina while hunting to the course.
     B. Ability to locate and point birds quickly and accurately.
     C. Staunchness on point.  Steady until flush.		
     D. Bird sense, hunting objectives likely to hold wild birds.

* Derby dogs are not required to back or retrieve.

III. Puppy Judging Standards (Born after 1/1/01) Focus is on natural
     qualities.  They should posses desire to hunt and instinct to 
     point.  They should also, show intelligence and courage in their
     ground application.  Pups should have good conformation & style.

For more information contact:  Ben Berg  320-252-6585