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Newfoundland - Draft Dog
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 Although
he is a superior water dog, the Newfoundland has been
used and is still used in Newfoundland and Labrador as a
true working dog, dragging carts, or more often carrying
burdens as a packhorse.
The Newfoundland Club of America encourages its members
to foster and maintain the working dog abilities that
are such an important part of the history of the breed.
Local clubs across the country are encouraged to host
Draft Tests and training seminars to promote the working
heritage of the Newfoundland dog.
The history of the Newfoundland not only reflects the
courage and stamina exhibited in rescuing people from
the water, but also shows the draft work abilities of
the dogs. They were indispensable to local residents of
Newfoundland, particularly fishermen, as the dogs helped
them haul in the heavy fishing nets. The dogs were then
hitched to carts or wagons to take the day’s catch to
market and make other deliveries. They were also used to
haul loads of firewood from the forests to their owner’s
homes.
Draft work showcases a remarkable bond between dog and
handler. The dogs learn many
commands, such as back, slow left, right, and stop. They
have been trained to ignore any intriguing distractions
while harnessed and working. Their handlers learn how to
verbally direct their dogs around and through numerous
obstacles. The results are truly a team effort.
The NCA Draft Test is a series of exercises designed to
promote the working heritage of the Newfoundland dog.
There are four parts to the Draft Test, all of which are
done off-leash:
Basic Control; Harnessing, Hitching & Equipment Check;
Maneuvering Course & Basic Commands; Freight Haul
Upon successful completion of all components of the
test, dogs are awarded the title of Draft Dog. Teams are
also encouraged to enter, and follow the same
requirements as a single dog. Qualifying teams are
awarded the title of Team Draft Dog.
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Draft Titles
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The Newfoundland Club of America awards the following titles
for draft test competition:
DD - Draft Dog
TDD - Team Rescue Dog
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More Information
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Colonial Newfoundland Club
Working Dog Chair:
Dwight Gorsuch
Newfoundland Club
of America
Working Dog Publications
Draft Equipment Guide Kit ($10.00)
Draft Test Rules & Regulations ($5.00)
Specialty Carting Rules & Regulations ($1.00)
Working Dog Publications Secretary
Dwight Gorsuch
BearNMind@verizon.net
925 Leppo Road
Westminster, MD 21158-1625
Orders must be prepaid, checks payable to Newfoundland
Club of America.
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