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Dogs of Versatility
They stood proudly beside their dogs, hands over hearts, American and Canadian flags waving overhead, and the national anthem playing softly against a backdrop of early morning fog. The opening ceremony brought cheers and tears in Mexico, Mo., site of the 2007 North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) Invitational Test.

For these 23 handlers, the day ahead presented an opportunity to showcase years of training by successfully completing three phases of field and water testing against a demanding standard. Some would “pass” and earn the coveted Versatile Champion or “VC” title. Most would leave without that honor, but richer for the experience.

The scene was repeated for four consecutive days in September. In all, 92 dogs were tested, and 39 earned the title of Versatile Champion, NAVHDA’s top achievement. The Missouri Uplands Chapter of NAVHDA hosted the 2007 Invitational, and Purina was again a major supporter and sponsor.

NAVHDA is dedicated to fostering and promoting the versatile hunting dog. Dogs are evaluated by trained judges to pre­determined standards rather than competing against each other as in a field trial. Breeds competing at the Invita­tional included Ger­man Short­haired Pointers, German Wirehaired Pointers, Small Munster­landers, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, Pudel­pointers, Weimeraners, Spinone Italianos, and Vizslas.

Bob West, Director of the P­urina Sporting Dog Program, says, “I feel this year’s NAVHDA Invitational set a benchmark as a spectacular event, thanks to everyone who played a part in putting it together and those who worked so hard throughout the week to make it happen.”

During the upland field portion of the Invitational, dogs are braced for an hour course and expected to show a strong forward and productive search; be steady to wing, shot and fall; and retrieve to hand on command. Dogs must also “back” a brace mate’s point and remain steady. A water retrieve in an overgrown lotus marsh and a 100-yard blind retrieve round out the three phases of testing.

As each day began so did it end with handlers gathering again, this time for the reading of scores. Hugs, applause, more tears of joy abound as each new Versatile Champion is crowned. 

Bird Dog Foundation, INC.
Bird Dog Foundation, INC.

 Founded in 1988, the stated mission of The Bird Dog Foundation, based in Grand Junction, is that of “preserving the past and protecting the future for sporting dog fanciers the world over.” Click here for more info



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Dogs of Versatility
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