Working Test Preparation for Retrievers

Thinking about entering a working test but unsure what to expect? Join Teach Your Gundog and Lead & Listen for this series of group sessions to help you understand how the day runs, what the judges are looking for, if your dog is ready and how to feel more prepared when it’s your turn.

Your teachers, Jules and Silke, have competed with their own dogs and have experience in helping and organising working tests. 

Open to retriever breeds only, there will be clear explanations, opportunities to practise and supportive feedback. Jules and Silke will help you understand the challenges and identify what you and your dog need to work on next.

Day One: Sunday 14 March 2027
9.30am–12 noon: Introduction and preparation
Jules and Silke will take you through what working tests involve, how they are run and how to prepare yourself and your dog. We’ll cover what to expect on the day, the do’s and don’ts, and give you time to ask questions.

1pm–3.30pm: Test practice
Using realistic working test scenarios, exercises will be broken down and explanations given as to what is expected of you and your dog. Common pitfalls will be discussed before giving you the opportunity to have a go with your dog. Feedback and time for reflection will help you recognise what went well and decide where to focus your training.

Day Two: Easter Monday 29 March 2027
9.30am–12 noon: Working test scenarios
Experience a selection of working test scenarios judged under test conditions. You’ll receive a score out of 20 for each test, alongside feedback to help you understand your score and what you can improve. 

This is an opportunity to put your preparation into practice, learn more about working together in a test environment and come away with clear training goals.

1pm–3.30pm: Optional GAP Level 2 assessments
For those ready to take their Level 2 assessment, the afternoon offers an opportunity to be assessed through the Gundog Trainers Academy’s Gundog Assessment Programme (GAP).

GAP provides a structured training and assessment pathway for pet and working gundogs. Taking an assessment is optional, so you can join the working test preparation without choosing this additional step.

Click here to read about GAP and the Level 2 assessment requirements