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What is a Barn Hunt class?

Barn Hunt events include a pass/fail instinct class for owners who want to familiarize their dog with the test. Courses are made increasingly difficult by adding more obstacles, additional diversions and more rats to find. There are several types of Barn Hunt titles your dog can earn:

How do you train a dog to hunt barns?

Though this comes naturally for most dogs, honing in on that sense of smell could help with a barn hunt. Place boxes around an open area, each with something different inside offering your dog a special scent in one box and the others a scent your dog dislikes or no scent at all.

Why choose barn hunt?

The rats used in Barn Hunt are beloved family pets. They jump eagerly into their safe, comfortable aerated tubes and truly enjoy interacting with the dogs. We're a great sport for older dogs, and older people too!

How do I find an upcoming Barn Hunt event?

To find an upcoming Barn Hunt event, or to learn how to host or prepare for an event, visit the Barn Hunt Association website. Any breed or mix of dog 6 months of age or older who can fit through an 18″ wide by bale-height tall (approximately 20″-22″) tunnel constructed of straw/hay bales is eligible to enter a Barn Hunt trial.

How do you start barn Hunt training?

Focus on agility training to help your dog get through barn hunt quickly. In your backyard, set up a hay bale maze with treat-filled toys hidden throughout. Run the course with your dog closely leashed to you. Each time your dog finds a treat-filled toy, offer him a special treat as a reward.

What is barn hunt instinct test?

Barn hunt is a timed event to test your dog's vermin searching (hunting) and marking (finding) ability in a barn-like setting. Essentially, around bales of hay – not necessarily a barn. Climbing and tunneling skills are also tested, and all together your ability to work as a team with your dog.

What is a barn hunt competition?

Barn Hunt is a fun sport for your dog where they have to use their nose to locate rats (safely enclosed in aerated tubes) hidden in a maze of straw/hay. Since sniffing is such a fun activity for dogs, they love this sport!

How do barn hunt trials work?

“Barn Hunt tests the nose, speed, agility, and surefootedness of dogs that have a history of above-ground vermin hunting,” said Robin Nuttall, founder of the Barn Hunt Association.” Barn Hunt events include a pass/fail instinct class for owners who want to familiarize their dog with the test.

Does AKC recognize barn hunt titles?

Barn Hunt is an independent organization. However, Barn Hunt titles are recognized by the American Kennel Club through their Title Recognition Program.

What breeds can do barn hunt?

Barn Hunt is also open to any dog of any breed or mix who wishes to play the game and can fit through an 18" wide by bale-height tall tunnel.

Is Barn hunt cruel to rats?

Are rats hurt/killed in Barn Hunt? Absolutely not. Though the event is called Barn Hunt, we are not hunting rats to kill them. Instead, dogs locate rats who are safely enclosed in aerated tubes that are built to be tough enough for dogs to be unable to crush or even get a tooth into.

What do barn dogs do?

Simply put, no horse barn is complete until a good barn dog takes up residence. Although most of us think of them as companions, they can also be quite useful around the barn. They can chase off predators, provide rodent control, herd other animals, and be your faithful companion on trail rides.

What breeds can join a Barn Hunt?

The Barn Hunt tests the dog’s scenting ability, speed, drive, obedience, and responsiveness to the handler. All breeds, even mixed breeds , can join a Barn Hunt. The only qualification is that the dog can fit into the bale tunnel (about 18″ tall). However, the dogs will be divided into different height classes.

What are the best breeds for barn hunt?

These include the Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collies, American Foxhound, Welsh Corgi, and other pointer breeds.

How do I train my dog for a barn hunt?

Taking an introductory Barn Hunt class is a great way to be introduced to the sport. Barn Hunt classes can help teach your dog the skills and commands to do well in formal competitions. Like all sports though, practice makes perfect, so be sure to reinforce those lessons at home.