What Is
Earthdog?
Many terriers and Dachshunds were bred originally to hunt, chase,
go to ground and bolt quarry of one kind or another, usually
fox, otter and badger. Today, the sport of Earthdog allows these
dogs to use their natural instincts in a safe, simulated hunting
environment. They can have lots of fun, and earn titles too.
The A.N.K.C. rules and regulations can be found at www.ankc.org.au
(click on About ANKC, and then click Regulations in the drop
down menu). |
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Which
Dogs?
All Dachshunds, and the following Terriers: Australian, Australian
Silky, Bedlington, Border, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Fox (Smooth
and Wirehaired), Jack Russell, Lakeland, Manchester, Norfolk,
Norwich, Parson Russell, Scottish, Sealyham, Skye, Tenterfield,
Welsh and West Highland White. All dogs entered in tests must
be registered with their Canine Council, and must be on the Main
or Limited Register. Associate Registered dogs will be allowed
to compete in 2009. |
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What Titles?
There are three titles available for Earthdogs; NE (Novice
Earthdog), SE (Senior Earthdog) and ME (Master
Earthdog). It is recommended that new and/or young dogs are started
in the unofficial class "Introduction to Quarry".
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How?
Earthdogs are tested on their ability to enter the man-made den,
find their way to the "quarry" through a series of
turns and tunnels, and work the quarry. These challenges become
increasingly difficult at each stage. Dens are constructed as
a series of trenches dug in the earth, into which 3-sided liners
are fitted. The liners are in sections and have wooden roof and
sides, the floor is exposed dirt. This means that tunnels are
totally safe and cannot collapse and also that they can be configured
in any manner. In "Introduction to Quarry" the total
length of the den is only 3 metres, with one turn; but by Masters
level there are over 15 metres of tunnel, with multiple turns,
exits, false dens, a constriction and an obstruction! When dogs
are in training and official tests, each dog is tested individually
in a fully-fenced den area. In Australia the "quarry"
is always "non live" and may consist of toys, and/or
pelts suitably scented. |
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