The Natural Ability Test is designed to evaluate the inherent natural abilities of young dogs and gain insight into their possible usefulness as versatile gun dogs. It rates seven important inherited abilities: nose, search, tracking, pointing, water, desire and cooperation. Dogs are eligible for a Natural Ability Test up until, and including, the day they reach 16 months of age. Dogs over 16 months may be run for evaluation only. Dogs over 16 months may only be run if space is available. No prize classification can be awarded the dog run for evaluation.

The Natural Ability Test measures seven hereditary characteristics which are fundamental to the makeup of a good, reliable versatile hunting dog. The importance of this test cannot be overemphasized.  The natural, inherited abilities of a hunting dog usually manifest themselves at an early age, and it is desirable to take advantage of this fact by testing dogs while they are still young. By so doing, the owner or trainer gets an impartial evaluation of the dog’s strengths and weaknesses and thus is better able to map out a future training program for the animal. If the dog displays serious deficiencies, the owner may wish to obtain a new prospect. The conscientious breeder will study the dog’s record in the Natural Ability Test, along with the records of its litter mates, with a view in making any changes in his breeding program.

Although the Natural Ability Test is of extreme importance, it should not be regarded as an infallible gauge of a dog’s future worth. Obviously, deficient dogs aside, there is the case of the “late bloomer,” or dog that does not display its potential as early as some others. There is also the precocious youngster that does well in the beginning, but later on reveals some inherited character fault or physical disability that makes it a less than desirable gun dog. It is for this reason that NAVHDA strongly urges that dogs be tested at various stages of development.

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