THE KENNEL CLUB SHOW GUNDOG WORKING CERTIFICATE
Regulation J(F)

History

In the early history of the Show World all Gundog Champions were required to pass a working qualification. By the 1950s, with the increased popularity of shows, the numbers of potential Champions on the bench were growing and the opportunity and/or necessity to gain a working qualification at Field Trials was declining.  

Therefore, the title of Show Champion came into being, but to achieve Full Champion status the dog still needed to qualify at a Field Trial either with an award, COM or by passing the Show Gundog Working Certificate.

Etiquette and Conduct

There is an established code of conduct expected at Field Trials and this applies equally to Show Gundog Working Certificate Days.  Participants should be aware that it is a privilege, and not a right, to be present and to take part, and shall not openly impugn the decision of the Judge or Judges or criticise the host, ground or guns.

All Judges, Stewards and other helpers, entrants, supporters and spectators must be courteous to and co-operative with the host and the Steward of the Beat, (who will usually be the Gamekeeper), and should fall in willingly with their arrangements to achieve the best result possible in an atmosphere of friendliness and confidence.

It is expected that those attending these events will dress appropriately. While there are no specific dress requirements, it is suggested that clothing worn should be suitable for the shooting field, warm, waterproof and unobtrusive.  Brightly coloured clothing should be avoided.

The production of game to the guns is not assisted by noise, and those present should conduct themselves quietly and ensure that no unnecessary disturbance is created which might disturb game.

Aims

To provide credible proof of the natural working ability of a KC registered Gundog that has already proved it meets the KC Breed Standard by a qualification in the show ring

Preparation

Whilst the Judges on the day are looking for natural working ability, for retrieving breeds it is expected that your dog has had experience of handling freshly shot game, will retrieve from water, and is not afraid of gunfire.  It is also important that your dog is under sufficient control to undertake the test once the lead is removed.