AKC Hunt TEST

American Kennel Club (AKC) Hunting Tests for pointing breeds evaluate a dog's natural instincts and trained abilities against a standardized level of field performance rather than in competition with other dogs. At the Junior Hunter (JH) level, tests focus on raw potential and foundational field manners; dogs must demonstrate a keen desire to hunt, show bold quartering, establish a solid point on game birds, and maintain reasonable control without requiring steady-to-wing-and-shot execution or retrieves. As dogs progress to the Senior Hunter (SH) title, expectations increase significantly: a candidate must be steady to wing and shot on pointed game, reliably retrieve harvested birds to hand, demonstrate honor on a bracemate's point, and handle efficiently under the direction of the handler, proving a complete transition from enthusiastic beginner to a polished, dependable gun dog.