What breeds of dogs are versatile hunting dogs?
There are 12 “core breeds” and 13 “miscellaneous breeds” that are recognized by NAVHDA as possessing the broad range of hunting skills necessary to perform acceptably in NAVHDA-sanctioned tests, and to perform these same skills in the field. Information on the core breeds may be found on the “VHD Breeds” page within this site. Other pointing breeds such as Gordon Setters, English Setters, Irish Setters and Pointers, although not commonly categorized as versatile dogs, have done very well within the NAVHDA training and testing system. Only pointing breeds registerable with the NAVHDA Registry are eligible to enter NAVHDA tests. NAVHDA testing is open to dogs registered or registerable with NAVHDA’s Registry.
