Barn Hunt
Overview
Barn Hunt is a fun activity for dogs who like to sniff and search for things. In this sport they need to locate one or more rats (secured in a special tube designed for the rat's wellbeing) hidden in a course of straw bales. The courses also contain empty tubes and tubes with only rat litter, so the dogs must learn to discriminate between them. The courses become more complex as you progress through the levels. Only specially raised rats are used as they must be conditioned to the tubes and comfortable around dogs. There are rules that must be followed to ensure the safe handling of rats, ensuring they are not injured or stressed. Titles are awarded through Barn Hunt Association, and subsequently recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club.
Judging process
Dogs must wait their turn in small groups (usually 5 dogs) in an area called a blind. Although they wait in small groups they compete individually. They come into the ring on leash and must go to a "starting box" which is usually a 4'x4' mat. The handler must remove the dogs collar and leash and then release the dog once the judge says you can start. There is a set time limit based on the class entered. The time starts once the dog or handler leaves the starting box. The dog must correctly indicate the location of the rat(s) to the handler and also climb/jump onto the bales of straw and go through a tunnel within the the time limit in order to qualify.
Eligibility
Be individually registered with the Barn Hunt Association
Be 6 months of age or older
Spayed or neutered dogs may compete
Titles
There are a number of titles that can be earned starting with Instinct. Instinct (RATI) only requires one qualifying score. Three qualifying scores must be earned for each of the Novice (RATN), Open (RATO) and Senior (RATS) titles. Masters (RATM) requires five qualifying scores. There are a number of other titles including excellent and champion titles, plus non-regular classes that have different or additional requirements..