While Earthdog trials involve man- made underground tunnels that the dogs must navigate, while scenting “the quarry”, the dog must follow the scent to the quarry and then “work” the quar- ry. “Working” means barking, scratch- ing, staring, pawing, digging—any active behavior. The quarry is protected at all times by wooden bars across the end of the tunnel, therefore, the hunt- ing encounter is controlled and neither the dog nor the quarry (usually two rats) are endangered by the activity. barn hunt This event places the Norfolk Ter- rier back to their roots of searching in a farm environment for their prey. Historically, many breeds were used by itinerant “rat catchers” to rid farms of crop-robbing, disease-spreading rats. The sport of Barn Hunt is mod- eled after that job the Norfolk Terrier is adeptly suited. The sport takes place in a barn-like atmosphere that can be re- created almost anywhere. An enclosed ring, 50-60 bales of straw or hay, some tubes and some rats are all it takes for “THE SPORT OF BARN HUNT is Modeled afTer ThaT joB The Norfolk Terrier is adepTly suiTed.”
Meet The Breeds in NyC 2015, “Cutter”.
recommend it to Norfolk Terrier own- ers. The Norfolk Terriers are busy little dogs, who can easily get themselves into all kinds of trouble when bored. They’re also a bunch who appreciate their food and treats, leading to a rela- tively high incidence of obesity in the breed. What better than a sport that entertains them and keeps them fit. Norfolk are inventive little dogs. You need a creative and creative trainer to keep up. To keep the Norfolk excited and willing to work hard, rewards are a must. Squeaky toys are often seen as the ultimate rewards for these little rat catchers. But high value treats work wonderfully as well. To see these little dogs work through the various obsta- cles in a set path is truly remarkable. earthDog Earthdog trials tests the working ability and instinct of the Norfolk Ter- riers. Since these dogs were bred to hunt vermin and other quarry which lived in underground dens, these tests can be a natural extension of the Nor- folk Terrier’s instinctive hunting skills.
these terriers to get their rat on Barn Hunt style. The Norfolk Terrier is a versatile dog with many opportunities for both the dog and the people to participate in. Regardless of one’s preference, these little dogs will aim to please and all for a reward treat and the loving embrace of their people. Some Norfolk Terriers will just love to fetch the ball for as long as your arm will move and still want more. This is a gregarious dog that is a like no other. about the author We have been involved with Nor- folk Terriers since 2004 when we got our first Norfolk (Samson) and met breeders who mentored, coached and advised us on the breed. Samson is such a joy that we have added others to our family and each is a gem. As far as what I do, I am the webmaster for the NTC among a variety of other things needed to help the club run. To us, it is all about these little dogs and bettering the breed we have come to love deeply.
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