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Versatile Hunting Dog Federation of Maine

Versatile Hunting Dog Federation of MaineVersatile Hunting Dog Federation of MaineVersatile Hunting Dog Federation of Maine
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  • About
  • Membership
  • Training
  • Locations
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    • Home
    • About
    • Membership
    • Training
    • Locations
    • Events & Registrations
    • Contacts
    • FAQ

Versatile Hunting Dog Federation of Maine

Versatile Hunting Dog Federation of MaineVersatile Hunting Dog Federation of MaineVersatile Hunting Dog Federation of Maine
  • Home
  • About
  • Membership
  • Training
  • Locations
  • Events & Registrations
  • Contacts
  • FAQ

National Testing, Evaluation & Confirmation Calendar

At Versatile Hunting Dog Federation of Maine, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations for hunting dogs. Our goal is to help handlers and breeders create superior hunting companions through rigorous standards and expert guidance. Join us in our mission to enhance the future of hunting dogs.

National Calendar of Events

Testing

Logo of Versatile Hunting Federation, Maine Chapter with dog silhouette.

Hunting Aptitude Evaluation (HAE)

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Purpose is to record the level of hunting aptitude of young dogs up to 1.5 years of age, although there are no age restrictions.

Logo of Versatile Hunting Federation inside Maine state outline.

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Purpose is to record the level of hunting aptitude and trainability in a young dog that has been started for hunting.

Logo of Versatile Hunting Federation, Maine Chapter with dog silhouette.

Performance Evaluation(PE)

Advanced Hunting Aptitude Evaluation ( AHAE)

Performance Evaluation(PE)

Purpose is to record the level of performance of the fully finished versatile hunting dog on land, and in water, before and after the shot.

Handler Development

Identify Your Objectives

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

Identify Your Objectives

A man and a child holding hands with a dog in a grassy field.

Before starting it is critical to identify your Objective and have a plan to get there.  Communicate your objective with those assisting so that they can help you achieve success.

Don't move to Fast

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

Identify Your Objectives

A hunting dog camouflaged in dry grass and branches.

Build Strong Foundations and do not move too forward until your dog understands what you are asking. Have Fun!!!!! Training is not a race.

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

Hunting dog holding a hare in its mouth in a forest.

As you are training take control of what you can. Never give a command unless you know you can get the result you want.

Stay Agile

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

Do Not Give a Command You Can Not Enforce

A black and white dog on a leash near a small animal trap in a grassy field.

Training is an ongoing process, and it's important to be adaptable and open to change. VHDFME is here to help you!!!

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

A hunting dog poised and alert in a forest with fallen leaves.

You are in control!!!! Heal, Release , Here, Heal. Dog is never doing its own thing

Be Consistent

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

Everything Starts and Ends with a Command

Eight dogs forming a circle looking inward on a white background.

The three basic foundations for success in field work are a solid Recall, Whoa, and Stop to Flush.  5-10 minutes a day in your yard will improve this foundational work. 

Training day

Logo of Versatile Hunting Federation inside Maine state outline.

What Equipment Do I need?

The basic items needed for your training day. Check cord, Handler Lead, Collar, Whistle, Bird Bag, Tie Out, and Water. 

Mental Attitude

Be positive and do not get discouraged. especially seeing other dogs that might be doing better. Have a plan, stay motivated, and keeping working towards your objectives.

Why Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to network, give back, and learn new skills. Ask questions, observe and help the community. If you are new to VHDFME it will help you form relationships and network with training and hunting. 

Land

VHDFME is always looking for new places to hold events. If you have ideas on training locations, or events please reach out.

Birds

VHDFME ask that all members coming to an event to pre-register at the "event and Register tab" Birds will need to be order and paid for before the clinic. VHDFME Offers Chukar 

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