Upland Bird Dog: Field Trials

Region 12 Field Trial

See images; pages 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10

Sheldon Twer, a professional trainer, is having a successful trialing season with several client's dogs wining Championships. Sheldon's hard work, attention to detail and dedication to birds dogs make him a formidable opponent in any field trial.

Sheldon search for the bobwhite indicated by this young Pointer. Draws and canyons are favorite places for birds. Seasoned bird dogs learn to locate birds in these areas. Torben Hansen scouts for Sheldon and holds Sheldon's horse out of the way. A good scout is indispensable especially for a bird dog that runs to the country.

An English Setter indicate birds in the sage bush. Sheldon looks deep inside to located the bird. A found bird can be the difference between a placement and a nonproductive with no placement. This setter is well mannered and although the judge and horse are close by the setter maintains its intensity.

Sheldon effort to flush out a bobwhite quail pays dividends. These planted birds may run a bit before flushing with a good burst of energy. A bird dog that is well trained can handle this excitement while other bird dogs less seasoned may break and give chase. Thus, during training use as much distraction as possible to anticipant what might happen during a trial. Otherwise, the dog may give chase and not allowed to continue.

Judge Paul Wells observes Pettie a female Pointer and Sheldon who is hidden by the tall thick brush. Getting a bobwhite located in this thicket to flush is difficult and the judge must see the bird before it is considered a find.

Sheldon holds 6X Champion Deception's Bullett. This dog has won both Shooting and All-Age Championships. For more information see Deception's Bullett.