NAVHDA Test Types Overview
Natural Ability
Designed to evaluate the inherent hunting abilities of young dogs under 16 months. The Finger Lakes Chapter hosts NA tests during our Spring and Fall testing events.
Utility Test
A test of the finished versatile hunting dog, examining field work and water work. This test is hosted by our chapter locally in the Fall.
Gun Dog Test
Assesses the dog's performance as a useful, versatile hunting partner. Hosted by our chapter during our Fall testing schedule.
Invitational
The premier performance test. Note: This is hosted by NAVHDA International (not our chapter). Qualification requires earning a Prize I in Utility Test.
Natural Ability (NA)
The Natural Ability Test evaluates young dogs—up to 16 months of age—on their inherent hunting traits: nose, search, water, pointing, and tracking. This test focuses on the foundational characteristics of the versatile hunting dog before significant specialized training. Our chapter hosts NA tests during our Spring field sessions, and provides testing for NA, Utility (UT), and the Gun Dog Test (GDT) during our Fall field sessions.
Utility Test (UT)
The Utility Test (UT) evaluates the finished versatile hunting dog’s ability to perform at the highest level in the field, forest, and water. Finger Lakes NAVHDA hosts the Utility Test during our Fall testing session only. Please note that earning a Prize I in Utility is the prerequisite for the NAVHDA Invitational—the ultimate test of versatility hosted annually by NAVHDA International, rather than our local chapter.
Gun Dog Test (GDT)
The Finger Lakes Chapter hosts the Gun Dog Test annually during our Fall test weekend. This evaluation is designed for finished hunting companions that have completed their formal training, focusing on steady field work and reliable water retrieves.
Test Policy
The Finger Lakes Chapter hosts Natural Ability tests in the spring, and a full slate of Natural Ability, Utility, and Gun Dog Tests in the fall. The following registration policies apply to all chapter events.
October 1st
Test entries open for Finger Lakes NAVHDA members. Please ensure your local membership is up to date prior to registration.
February 28th
Test entries are open to all NAVHDA members. Entries are filled on a first-come, first-served basis once open to the general membership.
Entry Requirement
Entry form and payment in full are required for entry. Partial payments or incomplete forms will not secure a spot in the testing queue.
Cancellation Policy
Up to 30 days prior to the test – the entry fee will be refunded less the $25 processing fee.
Between 29 days to 14 days prior to the test – the entry fee will only be refunded if the test spot is filled less a $50 processing fee.
Between 13 days and test day – No refund.
If the handler or dog has a medical issue – 100% of the fee will be refunded or deferred (if deferred and the test fee has increased the difference will be owed) with the proper doctor/veterinarian documentation.
Any remaining portion of a test entry fee can be deferred; if the test fee has increased the difference will be owed when entering the future test.
* This is at the discretion of the Executive Board.