Hunt Performance Test (HPT) Friday, October 10th

The Basset Hound Hunt Performance Test (HPT) is an AKC-sanctioned event designed to evaluate a Basset Hound’s natural hunting ability and scent-tracking skills in a real-world hunting environment. Unlike traditional field trials, HPTs are non-competitive and focus solely on assessing the hound’s ability to locate and track live rabbit or hare scent.

Key Aspects of the HPT:

• Individual Evaluation – Each hound is judged independently rather than competing against others.

• Hunting Ability – The hound must demonstrate good use of nose, line control, determination, and enthusiasm in trailing rabbit scent.

• Scoring System – “Is based up on a Qualifying Score”. A hound must have an “Official Score” of 5 or above in each category. In addition, the average of all categories must be at least 6.

• Titles Earned – Hounds that pass multiple tests earn titles:

  • Hunting Hound (HH) – 3 qualifying scores

  • Senior Hunting Hound (SHH) – 3 qualifying scores

  • Master Hunting Hound (MHH) – 3 qualifying scores

  • Master Hunting Excellent (MHE) – 3 qualifying scores

The HPT is a great way to preserve the Basset Hound’s original function as a scent hound, encouraging breeders and owners to maintain the breed’s working abilities.

Field Trials
Saturday, October 11th & Sunday October 12th

Basset Hound Field Trials are AKC-sanctioned events that test a Basset Hound’s ability to track and pursue live rabbit or hare scent. At nationals hounds only compete in the brace format. At nationals trials are competitive and judge the hounds’ hunting skills, including nose, line control, endurance, and teamwork.

In general Basset Hound Field Trials preserve and refine the breed’s natural hunting instincts, providing a venue to test working ability while fostering camaraderie among enthusiasts.

Key Aspects of Basset Hound Field Trials:

• Formats:

  • Brace – Two hounds run together, judged on their teamwork.

  • Small Pack– A group of hounds works together to follow the scent.

  • Large Pack – A larger group of hounds works the scent simultaneously.

• Scoring Criteria: Hounds are evaluated on their ability to find, track, and follow a rabbit’s scent while maintaining control of the line.

• Elimination Rounds: Dogs are eliminated throughout the trial until the best-performing hounds are placed.