EARTHDOG-
THE WHAT, WHEN, WHO, WHY, HOW!!!
What?
IS Earthdog work?- the word terrier comes fro m the latin Terra, meaning earth- many terriers are bred to go to ground and flush out the quarry from its den or earth. Dachsunds are also bred t o go t o ground (Dachs = badger Hund = dog). With dogs living in urban and suburban areas, there is not always the opportunity for them to actually perform the tasks for which they were bred. Many countries around the world frwon on hunting, even though most o f the quarry is considered vermin! The USA developed the sport o f earthdog t o enable dogs to be assessed o n their ability to do the job. It is, o f course an artificial situation,…a scent is laid, the do must pick up the scent, enter the den, arrive at the “quarry” and work the quarry for a given time.
Who?
Can compete? All Dachshunds, and the following terriers- Australian, Australian Silky, Bedlington, Border, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Fox, Jack Russell, Lakeland, Manchester, Norfolk, Norwich, parson Russell, Scottish, Sealyham, Skye, Tenterfield, Welsh, and West Highland White. Dogs co peting in Tests must be registered with their Canine organisation- at this stage Associate Register dogs are not eligible (BUT are welcome t o come along to training)
Why?
As already mentioned- give your dog a go to prove his working skills!..But it must be said, as it is an artificial situati o n, not all do s will prove themselves- they are not stupid!
PLUS…an opportunity t o gain Earthdo g Titles!!…..NE (Novice earthdog) SE (Senior Earthdog) and ME (Master Earthdog)
How?
Earthdog Tests are conducted in NSW by The Jack Russell Terrier Club, and also The Border Terrier Club. There are 3 levels o f Testing, and the ANKC Rules can be found on their Website which can be reached through www.dogsnsw.org.au and linking.
You are advised to train your dog. Try coming along to one o f the training sessions held by the JRTCNSW following a Test. If your dog does go through the tunnel (den), we encourage you to go home and keep at it (Its as simple as picking up a couple o f cardboard boxes from your local super market!!)
The quarry used in Austrlian is NOT live!
When and Where?
Earthdog Tests are conducted at the Bill Spilstead Complex for Canine Affairs, Luddenham Road , Erskine Park . The Earthdog Area is at the back of the grounds, past the German Shepherd Building, and directly behind the Sheepdog Yards. (It is where the Jack Russell racing is held).
CONTACT: Sarah 0429 419964 o r show@jackrussellterrierclub.com.au for further information
