Field trials uncovered

We have all heard of them but what exactly is a field trial? Glynn Evans spells out how these canine competitions work and how to get involved.

Field trials were developed to test the working ability of gundogs in competitive conditions and are a significant test for both the handler and their dog. Trials should resemble, as closely as possible, a day’s shooting and dogs are expected to work with a variety of game species.

Organised by gundog clubs, they are conducted under the Kennel Club (KC) J Regulations, which span more than 40 pages and cover all aspects of field trials, from the number of competitors to how the event is organised and judged. Like working tests, field trials are split into breed groups, and they also include trials for pointers and setters. These breeds are not required to retrieve, but are assessed on their ability to find, point and flush gamebirds.

The logistics of field trials

Like tests, trials offer various categories and ways of progressing from one level to the next. When a dog wins a certain number of open qualifying trials, it earns the prestigious title of Field Trial Champion. Additionally, dogs may qualify for breed-specific championships, such as those for retrievers (the criteria for qualifying vary by breed group).

Trials often fill up quickly, so consider joining a few clubs to boost your chances of securing a spot, as organisers usually give preference to club members in the draw.

Entry fees for novice trials typically range from £35 to £60, depending upon breed, for members (more for non-members). The prizes usually consist of perpetual trophies, a certificate and dog food, along with prize money, but even for the winner, this is usually the same as the entry fee.

More about gundog competitions

BASC can guide you through your journey in
gundog competitions. You can find out more
about all things gundogs here.

In the June 2025 episode of BASC’s Official Podcast,
we talk about different types of gundog competitions.
Listen now to find out more.

If you’re already competing in field trials, you should
read about BASC’s Tower Bird trophies and how you and
your dog could qualify for this prestigious award.

And if you’re starting your adventure with gundogs,
we can help you choose the perfect dog for you.

An emphasis on game-finding

As field trials are conducted on live game, there is no way of ensuring complete uniformity in the way the dogs are tested, so the judges assess each individual run or retrieve and give it a grade.

Judges are required to find the dog which, on the day, impresses them the most with the quality of its work from the shooting point of view, with particular emphasis on natural game-finding skills.

Field trials: final notes

Dogs which commit an eliminating fault will automatically be discarded from the trial. Similarly, if a dog fails to perform to the required standard, it will also be dropped. If the judges feel that none of the dogs meet the necessary standard, they withhold awards.

Before entering a trial, especially for the first time, I highly recommend volunteering to assist at one. This will give you a better understanding of the format and etiquette. It’s also a good way to assess whether your dog is ready for the challenge or if a bit more training and experience is needed.

Glynn Evans

Glynn Evans is BASC’s head of game and wildlife management. Before coming to BASC he was a full-time keeper for over 25 years working on estates in Gloucestershire and Norfolk.