Dakota Outdoor Gundog Series (D.O.G.S.) is an off season, hunting competition for upland bird dogs which gains them the recognition they deserve.  It’s an excellent way to show off your dog’s talents along with your shooting skills in a friendly, competitive atmosphere.

A set number of birds (usually chukars, others are quail and pheasants) are planted in each 10 to 15 acre field.  The goal of this timed event is for the dog to hunt, point, or flush, then retrieve to hand.   Points are awarded flushes, points, retrieves, for birds bagged, unused shells, and minutes remaining.  In all cases, competitors are allowed a brisk, controlled walk and absolutely no running will be tolerated.  Any running will result in serve penalties.

The competition has four (4) divisions:

Singles: This one (1) hunter and one (1) dog division has a 3 bird set to be harvested with a fifteen (15) minute time limit.  The hunter is allowed 6 shells and awarded points for unused shells.  Points are awarded for flushes and points, retrieves and birds bagged, as well as minutes remaining.   Includes awards and buy in option.

Doubles: This two (2) hunters and one (1) dog division has a 6 bird set to be harvested with a twenty (20) minute time limit.  Both hunters are allowed 12 shells and are awarded points for unused shells.  Points are awarded for flushes and points, retrieves and birds bagged, as well as minutes remaining.  Includes awards and buy in option

Puppy: This one (1) hunter and one (1) dog division has a 3 bird set to be harvested with a fifteen (15) minute time limit for any dog under 24 months as of January 1st of the D.O.G.S. competing season.  The hunter is allowed 6 shells and awarded points for unused shells.  Points are awarded for flushes and points, retrieves and birds bagged, as well as minutes remaining.  Includes awards and buy in option.

Amateurs:  This one (1) hunter and one (1) dog division has a 3 bird set to be harvested with a fifteen (15) minute time limit.  The hunter is allowed 6 shells and awarded points for unused shells.  Points are awarded for flushes and points, retrieves and birds bagged, as well as minutes remaining.  This competition is for “the beginner” who would like try it out.  Includes awards and buy in option

Each Division is separated into Pointers and Flushers classes except the Amateur Division, which is a beginner level at the lower cost per run. 

The top 3 places in both Pointers and Flushers classes per Division receive payback, awards, and points accumulated toward the “Dog of the Year” except Amateur Division.  All events are sanctioned with the Bird Dog Challenge (BDC) and all scores throughout the season will be forwarded to the BDC.

Pointers Class must establish a solid 3 second point before the hunter can flush and shoot the bird.  After the shot, the hunter cannot move and the dog must retrieve to hand.  If the hunter takes a step or more after the shot, he or she is only granted a partial retrieve. 

Flushers Class must hunt and flush the birds.  They also must retrieve to hand after the shot.  They also are allowed to “trap” or catch the birds.

Scoring System as follows:

• 1st place: Receives thirty (30) points.
  2nd place: Receives twenty (20) points.
  3rd place: Receives fifteen (15) points.
  4th place: Receives ten (10) points
  5th place: Receives five (5) points
  6th place: Receives four (4) points
  7th place: Receives three (3) points
  8th place: Receives two (2) points
  9th place: Receives one (1) points

The D.O.G.S. is an up and coming sport growing into its 3rd season.  D.O.G.S. mission is to uphold a respectful image dedicated to its competitors, spectators, and their beloved four legged hunting companions. While carrying on the time honored tradition of upland hunting that everyone in our great country deserves.