UNDER CONSTRUCTION

If there is one word I could use to describe what is required for your dog to be successful at the Spring test it's "Exposure".

Your Dog will be expected to search in the field, point game, accept gun fire, be relatively obedient and relatively cooperative.

So how do you prepare:

By now your pup should be well on it's way to heeling by your side on lead, coming when you call, sitting when told and laying down quietly where you tell it until you come back to pick it up. (see Obedience section). Though evaluating natural ability is the purpose and focus of the Spring Test, obedience is also evaluated relative to the puppies age. For that reason the further along you are with the trained commands listed above the more succesful the pup will be. Remember, "obedience rides herd over all future training".