The Bernese Mountain Dog Draft Test: Honoring the Breed’s Working Heritage

The Bernese Mountain Dog Draft Test is a series of exercises designed to showcase the natural abilities and training of purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs in a working capacity involving hauling. This test aims to honor the breed’s historical function as a draft dog, which involved transporting dairy products from farms to dairies. The test evaluates the dog’s efficiency, teamwork with their handler, and their overall enjoyment of the work.

What is the Primary Purpose of the Bernese Mountain Dog Draft Test?

The primary purpose of the Bernese Mountain Dog Draft Test is to honor the breed’s historical role as a draft dog. The test is intended to demonstrate the dog’s natural abilities and training in a working capacity, highlighting their efficiency, teamwork, and enjoyment of their work. By participating in the Draft Test, Bernese Mountain Dog owners can showcase the breed’s inherent skills and the results of their training, which are applicable to realistic work situations.

Minimum Age for a Bernese Mountain Dog to Enter a Draft Test

bernese mountain dog draft test

The minimum age for a Bernese Mountain Dog to enter a Draft Test is two years old. While puppies can be introduced to a harness and dragging traces at a young age, heavy loads should not be introduced until the dog is fully mature, which typically occurs at around two years of age. It is essential to gradually increase the load weight over time to ensure the dog’s safety and proper conditioning.

Draft Titles and Regulations

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) offers eight draft titles that can be earned through their Draft Tests. These titles include:

  1. Novice Draft Dog (NDD)
  2. Draft Dog (DD)
  3. Draft Dog Excellent (DDX)
  4. Brace Novice Draft Dog (BNDD)
  5. Brace Draft Dog (BDD)
  6. Brace Draft Dog Excellent (BDDX)
  7. Team Novice Draft Dog (TNDD)
  8. Team Draft Dog (TDD)
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The BMDCA Draft Test Regulations and draft titles can be found on their website, providing detailed information on the requirements and standards for each title.

Regional Draft Tests and Clubs

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Image Credit: Wikimedia

Regional clubs across the United States hold Draft Tests throughout the year, offering Bernese Mountain Dog owners the opportunity to participate and earn titles. For example, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Oregon and the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Greater Seattle both host annual Draft Tests and provide resources and support for owners interested in this aspect of the breed.

Real-Life Incidents and Statistics

  • The first Bernese Mountain Dog Draft Test was held in the fall of 1991.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) has approved Draft Test Regulations since January 1991.
  • The BMDCA Versatility Award requires a Draft title, a championship, and one other working title.

Reference

  1. Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Americawww.bmdca.org
  2. Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Oregonwww.bmdco.org
  3. Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Greater Seattlewww.bmdcgs.org

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson is a devoted Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiast and regular contributor to Bernese Mountain Dog Pro. With over a decade of experience in raising and training Berners, Sarah brings practical knowledge and passion to her writing. Sarah lives in Colorado with her two Berners, Max and Bella.

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