Barn Hunt
One of the newest dog sports is Barn Hunt. It is frequently held here in Santa Rosa, in conjunction with Agility Trials run by Lorie Abbott (www.abbadogs.com).
This formal association, Barn Hunt Association, was founded by Robin Nuttal. Read about Robin’s journey with dogs at: http://barnhunt.com/about/about-me/
The great thing about this sport is that it is open to all breeds of dogs, purebred and mixed breed…all sizes and ages.
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Barn Hunt FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions, and answers, about Barn Hunt
What is Barn Hunt?
In Barn Hunt, dogs locate rats (safely enclosed in aerated tubes) hidden in a straw/hay bale maze. It’s a timed event with 3 different dog height divisions. Teams can get titles, placements, and championships.
I have a big dog (or a non-terrier or mix). Can he/she do Barn Hunt?
Absolutely. Barn Hunt is open to any dog of any size, breed, or mix that can fit through an 18″ wide by approximately 22″ high tunnel made of straw bales.
Why does my dog have to climb and tunnel? Why can’t he just find the rat and be done?
Barn Hunt sport is meant to emulate real life skills. Dogs who are unwilling to go into small dark places or climb up bales will not be effective ratters. The willingness to encounter and conquer adversity in pursuit of the “prey,” (in this case not really since rats are not harmed) is an important breed instinct trait for many breeds. For non-vermin hunting breeds it demonstrates confidence and drive.
How do I start a Barn Hunt Club?
Barn Hunt clubs can consist of clubs, commercial entities, or groups of friends. The best way to start one up is to reach out to area friends who also want Barn Hunt, and start one yourself! You can find more information in the post If You Build It They Will Come and How to Become a Barn Hunt Club
Are there Barn Hunt Club membership fees?
There are no membership fees for clubs. There are fees to apply for an official Fun Test or Licensed Trial.
Do I have to register my dog for Barn Hunt?
Yes. All dogs must be registered with Barn Hunt to be able to compete in Barn Hunt trials. You do not, however, have to register your dog to compete in a fun test or training clinic. Barn Hunt Registration is a one-time lifetime fee. You do not have to pay any kind of yearly membership fee.
What is the registration fee?
The Barn Hunt registration fee is $26 per dog, which covers infrastructure and title recording for the lifetime of the dog. It is a one-time fee.
Do I have to register online? Can’t I send you a check?
All Barn Hunt applications and registrations are online. Being all online allows for more responsiveness and is far less expensive and time consuming, which helps keep all costs down. It also saves trees. Online transactions are safe and secure.
Is Barn Hunt an AKC Event?
No. Barn Hunt is an independent organization. However, if you have an AKC registered dog and would like Barn Hunt titles listed on your AKC pedigree, you can do so. AKC clubs wishing to hold a Barn Hunt event in conjunction with an AKC trial may do so with some restrictions. Find out more information here.
Is Barn Hunt a UKC Event?
No. Barn Hunt is an independent organization. Beginning in January 2014, the UKC recognizes titles of Novice and above for listing on UKC pedigrees. See the UKC website for more information.
Are all Barn Hunts in barns?
Not necessarily. Barn Hunt events may be held indoors or outdoors, in almost any area as long as the ring can be securely fenced.
Are rats hurt/killed in Barn Hunt?
Absoluely not. Though the event is called Barn Hunt, we are not hunting rats to kill them. Instead, dogs locate rats who are safely enclosed in aerated tubes that are built to be tough enough for dogs to be unable to crush or even get a tooth into. The tubes are large enough for rats to be able to turn around, and they are kept on litter so they are comfortable. They often spend their time grooming or even sleeping in the tubes.
Rat care and safety is of paramount importance to the sport and has been from day one. Our rat care guidelines were developed with assistance from well-qualified sources who have spent decades studying, housing, and caring for mice and rats. We like rats and would never harm them physically or mentally for the sport.
For additional information, registration, rules and a list of upcoming events, visit the BSA website:
Pixie Tunnel