Rule Book

American Bird Dog Federation
Pointing Rules
Rule 1: Definitions
Section 1 – Acted On:
Acted on is when a handler fires his gun at a bird for the purpose of bagging it.
Section 2 – Bagged Bird
A bagged bird is a bird that has been shot, retrieved, or picked up after a 3-second point was established, and in the possession of the handler or the judge.
Section 3 – Collars
A beeper collar is an electronic device designed to beep a particular cadence to aid the handler in locating his/her dog, whether the dog is running or on point. The beeper collar must be turned on and working properly. The beeper collar must be worn properly as intended by the MFG. Properly, is defined as being behind the ears and in front of the shoulders on the dog’s neck. A handler who does not properly place the beeper collar on the dog will be disqualified. The handler may use a shock collar. Refer to Rule 14 Section 3 for further information.
Section 4 – Designated Shooter (DS)
A designated shooter is a person designated or approved by the field marshal, trial host, or trial committee to shoot for a handler. The designated shooter may not assist the handler in any way. The designated shooter’s sole purpose is to flush the bird and shoot for the handler. The dog must retrieve the bird to the handler not the designated shooter.
Section 5 – Designated Walker (DW)
A designated walker is a person designated or approved by the field marshal, trial host, or trial committee to walk for an injured or physically challenged handler.
Section 6 – Youth Handler (YW)
Handlers between the ages of 14-18 years old may participate in a sanctioned trial as long as the following conditions are met. NO EXCEPTIONS
a. The youth handler must be a paid member (family or individual membership). Must present a current hunter education/safety course card or certificate from their state of residence.
b. Must have a waiver (identification) which must show the youth handler’s name and must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
c. The youth handler between the ages of 14-18 years must have their parent or legal guardian accompany the judge during the course of the trial.
Section 7 – Field Marshal
A field marshal is a person appointed by the trial host or committee to oversee a particular field(s). A field marshal has the authority to stop the field trial if he/she sees an unsafe act taking place, or if an out-of-turn handler is in the blind.
Section 8 – Illegal Dog
An illegal dog is a dog that enters a field in which the dog is not assigned.
Section 9 – Interference
Any dog or person not assigned to the field in which the run is taking place enters that field and distracts the legal dog or the judgment of the judges hinders the legal dog in any way will be considered interference. If a dog or handler enters a field in which a run is taking place, the judge should make the handler leash his dog and stop the clock until the illegal dog or handler has been removed from the field. If in the judge’s opinion, a re-run is in order, or the illegal dog has moved a bird then the handler should return to the blind and the field be replanted if any birds were moved or taken out.
Section 10 – Point
A point is awarded when the handler calls “point” and the handler’s dog has been stationary for three seconds, and the judge has determined the point to be a “good point”. In order for the handler to receive points awarded for a “good point” the judge must see the bird.
Section 11 – Re-Runs
A re-run is an aborted run, which is to be started over.
Section 12 – Retrieves
There are two kinds of retrieves: a full retrieval and a partial retrieval.
a. A Full Retrieve is worth 10 points and is awarded when a dog brings the bird back to within one step of the handler.
b. A partial retrieve is worth 5 points and is awarded when a dog only partially brings a bird back to the handler. To be scored as a partial retrieve, the dog must have the bird in its mouth.
Section 13 – Running
The definition of running is the handler, the designated walker, or the
designated shooter walking faster than a normal walking speed. There will be no fast walking, running, or any means of moving through the field other than a normal walking pace.  
Section 14 – Safety
The handler, DS, or the judge can call a safety. A safety shall be called only when the judge, gallery, or competitor in the other field or personal property would be in peril if the handler chooses to shoot. There will be no dog safety on the dog for chasing or mouthing a bird that is still in the nest or has left the nest. This is considered a non-performing bird, and the judge will rule accordingly on it.
Section 15 – Time Limit
An ABDF field trial will be run with a 15-minute time limit per brace. Exception, if the entire list of owners in a trial may agree to shorten the time limit to 10-minute braces in order to get all dogs listed in the trial completed.

Rule 2: Field Trials & divisions
The field trial grounds are to be 5 to 8-acre fields with mown or fixed boundaries with either a fence, flags, or some other approved markings to clearly state and mark the out of bound areas. Trial grounds may be larger if approved in advance by the trial director.
Section 1 –
A dog can compete only one time per trial. However, the dog may compete in more than one trial on the same day.
Section 2 -
Scheduling of runtimes will be determined by a witnessed blind draw prior to the event.
Section 3 –
All fields must be flushed each morning prior to the event by dogs that are not scheduled to compete first or second in that field that day.
Section 4 -
If the time limit has expired and a bird has been shot, the handler has a 30-second grace period to complete the retrieval. If the retrieval is not completed within the 30-second grace period, no (0) points will be awarded for either the bagged bird or the retrieve only for the good point. He/she will get penalized for the shots fired.
NOTE: If the time limit has expired while the dog is on point and no bird has been produced the handler must leash his dog immediately and zero points will be rewarded.
Section 5 –
Once a dog has moved his quota of three birds Without the handler bagging three birds, then the handler must leash his dog, stop the clock, and will get rewarded for any time remaining in the brace. Birds flushed only count if the dog works that bird. Only birds worked will be scored on the card.
Section 6-
If the dog goes on point during a retrieve in bounds, The handler or designated shooter may move to flush the second bird with no penalty for the first bird. However, he or she may take the bird from the pointing dog for a full retrieval and then flush the second bird. If no bird is produced the handler is rewarded a full retrieve. In order for the handler to receive the points of a full retrieval the dog has to have the whole bird or parts of the bird in the mouth or within one step of retrieval. If multiple birds are pointed in first bird is acted on, the handler must remain stationary until he gets the full retrieval before moving to flush the second bird. If the handler moves to flush the second bird before the first shot bird is retrieved, he will be scored as a partial retrieve on the 1st bird.
Section 7 –
A tied score will be broken by the tiebreakers provided below.
a. Both run times totaled including seconds
b. Fastest first retrieve time
EX: a. 12 minutes 30 seconds beats 12 minutes and 31 seconds.
b. fastest time of first bagged bird or either run is the second tie breakers.
Section 8 –
On the last bird, including safety, time does not stop until the dog is on the handler's leash or held by the collar in bounds. If the handler lets his dog loose after calling time and time has been stopped then the judge is to start the clock again until the handler is in full control of the dog and then the time will be stopped.
Section 9 –
A female dog in season must be ran last. Handler must make the trial committee or field Marshall aware of this. Failure to do so may result in the disqualification of the dog.
Section 10 –
The trial director, his or her family, or employees may compete in their own trials.
Section 11 –
The American Bird Dog Federation will not under any circumstance tolerate poor sportsmanship, unsafe handling of a firearm, alcohol or drug use, or any other act that is unbecoming of a gentleman or A lady that is detrimental to the reputation of ABDF at any of its trials or membership meetings.
Rule 3: Scoring
All scorecards must be signed by the handler and by the judge. Scorecards are FINAL and the only additions or changes that can be made to the scorecard once signed is for a mathematical error or a judge giving a handler credit for something that the dog did not earn on the card. If the handler should have a protest, the handler should not sign the scorecard until a FINAL decision has been reached by the trial committee or child director following the protest. A handler refusing to sign a scorecard after a final decision has been reached by the trial committee or the trial director shall receive zero points.
Section 1 –
Zero points will be awarded unless a bird is produced (the bird has to be seen by the judge). If a handler gets no bird work in the allotted 15-minute time limit, his final score shall be a 0.
Section 2 –
(10) Points will be rewarded for each three-second point after the handler has called “Point”. Only three good points will be scored on the card. A point is considered a “good point” after the handler has called “Point” and the dog has been stationary for three seconds. The judge may award a “good point” as soon as the handler calls “point” if the judge has observed the dog pointing for three seconds prior to the handler calling “point”. To be credited with the score of 10 points for a “point” the handler must call point. Multiple points will not be awarded to the dog’s score if the dog relocates on the same bird. No points will be awarded if no bird was produced unless the dog points an empty cage that the planner has placed in the field. Multiple points can be awarded if the judge sees more than one bird and the handler acts on more than one bird. If the handler acts on one bird and then bags another by any means a shell worth 2 points will be deducted for the bagged bird as well as the shells the handler fired while acting on the other bird(s). This includes but is not limited to being awarded a safety for a non-performing bird.
Section 3 –
(2) Points will be awarded for each minute remaining out of the 15-minute time allotted.
Section 4 –
(2) bonus points will be scored for each shot bird bagged, provided the handler has not put his hands on the bird before it is shot. There will be no bonus points added unless the bird is bagged. If it is unsafe to shoot because of any person or personal property and a safety is called, or the bird does not fly high enough (6”) for a shot, then the (2) shot bird bonus points will be awarded. No shot bird bonus points will be awarded for a safety due to a non-performing bird that a dog has caught before it has left the nest. If the judge seems that the handler intentionally flushed the bird towards a known safety, (0) points will be awarded and 1 moved bird from the field will be marked on the scorecard.
Section 5 –
(5) Points will be awarded for each partial retrieve.
Section 6 –
(10) points will be awarded for each full retrieve. A handler only gets credit for one retrieve per bird.
Section 7 –
(2) points will be deducted if the handler doesn't shoot but still bags a bird.
Section 8 -
(2) points will be deducted for each time the handler shoots. EXCEPTION: when the judge instructs the handler or designated shooter to take a bird out. There is no limit on how many times a handler or designated shooter may shoot in any brace, but each shell will be a two-point deduction.
Section 9 –
(20) Points will be awarded for each bagged bird.
Section 10 –
the dog has to establish a “good point” as cold or as recognized by the judge on a bird before the handler will be permitted to bag that bird or (0) points will be awarded for the sequence and a shell will be deducted if the bird was acted on.
Section 11 –
a bird may be scored on only one time during the run. The judge may instruct the handlers to “take out” the “scored on bird” if feasible to do so with NO DEDUCTIONS FOR THE SHELL(S). Otherwise, the judge will remember the immediate area where the bird is, and the trial will continue. If a handler tries to score only the same bird more than one time the judge will not allow it. If the handler shoots a shell while trying to score on the same bird twice the judge will deduct (2) points for each time the handler shoots.
Section 12 –
0 points will be awarded for a cold, dead bird retrieved from out of bounds or inbounds.
Section 13 –
0 points will be awarded for a dead bird pointed in the field unless the dead bird is in a cage that was planted by the bird planter. In this case, a full sequence will be scored.
Section 14 –
0 Points will be awarded if a handler uses any command to whoa his dog to point. After the dog has become motionless and the handler has called point, the handler may then whoa his dog. The dog must have been motionless in order for the handler to call point.
Rule 4: Full retrieves/Partial retrieves
Once a bird has been “acted on” which means shot at; the handler must keep one foot stationary at all times to be awarded a full retrieve. The foot that is stationary is a pivot foot and the handler may use this pivot foot to pivot in any direction. In order for the dog to be awarded a full retrieve, it must bring the bird back to within one step of the stationary pivot foot. If the handler drags his/her pivot foot or moves that pivot foot in ANY manner prior to securing the bird from the dog, or prior to the dog bringing the bird back to within the one step: the handler cannot receive points for a full retrieve.
Section 1 –
The dog must retrieve the bird to the handler, (if using a designated shooter) the DS must step behind the handler immediately upon shooting the bird.
Section 2 –
if a shot bird falls behind an obstruction that the dog cannot pass safely over or through, the handler may help the dog over the fence and back and receive full points for the retrieval, if the dog brings the bird back to within one step of the handler. Once the handler helps the dog over the fence the handler must now remain stationary until the dog retrieves the bird to within one step of that new position.
Section 3 –
If an acted-on bird falls or gets lodged in a tree or brush that prevents the dog from a retrieve, it will be scored a full retrieval for a non-retrievable bird.
Section 4 –
If a handler acts on a bird but the bird stays in the field and gets pointed again, the handler may move to the bird for a second flush. The handler will be deducted 2 points for the initial shot. If the bird is acted on again, another two points will be deducted for the shell used and if the bird is retrieved this will be scored as a full retrieval.
Section 5 –
The dog may not bring the bird to the designated Walker or designated shooter. This will be scored as a partial retrieve if the handler cannot get the dog to retrieve to him/her.
Section 6 –
A handler may kneel down, but MAY NOT lie down to retrieve a bird.
Section 7 –
A handler may lay his/her gun on the ground during a retrieve ONLY if unloaded.
Section 8 –
The handler MAY NOT physically assist the dog other than the one step limit during the retrieve and still receive 10 points for the retrieval. EXCEPTION: the handler may take golf balls, empty hulls, or other safe objects to throw in order to help the dog mark a bird.
Section 9 –
ABSOLUTELY NO LIVE SHELLS OF ANY KIND MAY BE THROWN to assist a dog in the retrieval of a bird.
EFFECT: An immediate disqualification of the handler for any live shell thrown.
Rule 5: Shells
Section 1 –
(2) Points will be deducted for each shell used. The handler or designated shooter are not limited to how many shells that they may have in their possession in the field or how many times they can shoot.
Section 2 –
One shell will be forfeited for each bagged bird.
Section 3 –
One shell shall be forfeited for each safety called.
Section 4 –
The handler, designated shooter, or judge may call a safety as long as there is an unspent shell in the gun.
Rule 6: Birds
Four birds will be planted for each dog while the handler is in the blinded area so that he/she cannot see the plant. The birds must not be planted (if cover permits) closer than 30 feet of any boundary line. All birds will be placed in a secure wire pen/cage that will allow for easy flush. If the handler only moves two birds from the field before his time is up, then there will only be two birds planted for the next dog running.
Section 1 –
A bagged bird must be in bounds when pointed in order for the point to count or for the handler to act on the bird.
Section 2 –
If a bird enters into the field from the other field or of its own accord, this bird is then considered a legal bird.
Section 3 –
If a bird is unintentionally pushed into the field by an out of bounds dog or if a hunter leaves the field to retrieve an out of bounds dog and accidentally flushes a bird back into the field, that bird becomes a “Marked bird” and the handler cannot get scored on this bird.
NOTE: The judge should instruct the handler to make a reasonable effort to take this bird out before exiting the field and after said handler has ended his run. The next dog running may get a score on this bird they entered the field on its own if the judge and handler is unsuccessful in removing the bird from the field.
Section 4 –
An out of bounds dog may point a bird that is in bounds.
Section 5 –
No shot bird will be awarded for a non-performing bird (safety). Until the judge has determined that the bird did not fly high enough causing the non-performance. The bird must be safely in flight to shoot.
Section 6 –
The handler MUST make an attempt to flush the bird. If after the attempt to flush the bird fails to fly and the judge sees that the bird cannot or will not fly, the handler designated shooter, or the dog may pick up the bird and the sequence will be scored as a safety, for a nonperforming bird. The two bonus points for a shot bird will not be granted for a bird that does not leave the nest or for a dead bird that is planted in the release cage.
Section 7 –
After a bird has been scored on the handler or designated shooter (at the judge’s request) may fire his gun to take the bird out or to have his/her dog retrieve the bird to get it out of the field. NOTE: an extra shell will not be deducted if done at the judge’s request and no more than one retrieve will be scored on the bird.
Section 8 –
It is considered unsportsmanlike for a handler to refrain from calling a dog in from out of bounds in hopes of flushing a bird into that field.
Section 9 –
A trapped bird is a bird that has been caught (trapped) by the dog before leaving the nest, which results in zero points for the sequence and a bird moved off the field. If the bird has gotten up, has moved, fluttered or is moving: the bird by definition has less than nest.
Section 10 –
It is considered unsportsmanlike for a handler to intentionally injure a bird while attempting to flush the bird. First offense will constitute a warning by the judge. A second offense will constitute a 0 for the run.
Section 11 –
If a handler shoots and it is not in the direction of the bird in flight, this will be grounds for immediate disqualification.
Section 12 –
Handlers intentionally loading the field will be automatically disqualified.

Section 13 –
In all ABDF field trials, the bird planters must wear gloves that are free of any scent other than that of the birds.

Section 14 –
The bird planter shall mix the bird planting to the best of their ability so that the birds are not planted in the same spot each time. The bird planter needs to use 3 zones: front, middle, and back zone.

Section 15 –
The judge must wear a vest or have a means of carrying all shot or dead birds for that run. The judge should carry all shot or bagged birds.
Rule 7: Safety
A GOOD, SAFE SHOT IS ALWAYS the responsibility of the shooter. Failure to display safe shooting or gun handling practices while competing in a ABDF event is grounds for immediate disqualification. This is left solely up to the judgment of the judge, trial host, field Marshal, or trial committee.
Section 1 –
No bird in flight may be shot unless it is safe to do so. A safety shall be called for any unsafe shooting condition involving potential injury to any person, dog, or personal property.
Section 2 –
The handler or judge may call safety. The final decision as to whether the safety will be allowed will be left up to the judge’s discretion. NOTE: it is possible though NOT LIKELY for two or more safeties to be awarded if multiple flushes occur and there is no safe shot on any bird.
Section 3 –
Running by any handler, designated shooter, or designated Walker is prohibited during the field trial. It is the handler’s responsibility to control his/her designated shooter or designated Walker from running. Running is described as moving through the field faster than a normal walking speed.
EFFECT: The first warning assessed to the handler, (0) points will be deducted. For the second warning, the handler will be disqualified.
Section 4 –
A handler will be awarded a safety if the judge or cameraman flushes a bird out of the field. If the bird stays in the field the handler can immediately hunt the bird but will not be awarded the safety from the first flush.
Section 5 –
As long as the handler or designated shooter has a shell in his/her gun, a safety can still be awarded. FOR each safety called shell points will be deducted.
Section 6 –
The trial director, judge, and/or trial committee will determine if any handler or designated shooter whose shot reaches the gallery was by a peppering or a direct shot. Peppering of the gallery will be a warning for the first offense and disqualification for the second offense. A direct shot at the gallery can result in immediate disqualification.
Section 7
Handler Safety:
a. No bird is to be shot on the ground
b. blaze orange vest, cap, or coat must be worn by any person entering the fields during a trial.
c. All guns MUST have the shells removed and the chamber left open at all times except while competing.
d. All dogs must be leashed, staked out, in a vehicle, or restrain in some manner unless competing.
e. If the handler must help a dog over or through any obstruction, the handler must give the gun to the judge with the chamber open.
f. If the handler must leave the trial grounds for any reason during the run, the handler must give the gun to the judge with the chamber open.
g. Only 2 ¾ 8 shells will be allowed. 7 ½, 8, or 9 Shot no more than 1 ¼ ounce allowed.
h. Handler must shoulder gun to shoot a bird. Not shouldering the gun is grounds for immediate disqualification.
Section 8 –
It is Highly recommended by the ABDF that all participants in the trial: including handlers, judges, bird planters, and anyone else in the field wear safety glasses for eye protection.
Section 9 –
If a handler is disqualified for a safety issue, they will be disqualified for the entire trial. This does not apply to the dogs, he/she is scheduled to run whether owned or handled. Another handler may be allowed to run their dolls as long as they are ABDF members.
Rule 8: Dog Handler
Section 1 –
It is each handler’s responsibility to be in the blind on time. The decision on how many handlers is to be in the blind is left up to the trial host.
Section 2 –
The handler may not use any outside assistance whatsoever once they have entered the blind. This includes help from the gallery during the run, the designated shooter, or the designated Walker. ABDF events are designed for one handler and his or her dog to locate in bag birds with their own abilities. EXCEPTION: the handler may use an ATV, golf cart, or other means of transportation if the handler is physically challenged.
Section 3 –
Any participant in the ABDF trial event is required to sign a waiver and release agreement before participating in the trial. This includes among others, handlers, designated shooters, designated walkers, field Marshals, judges, and bird planters. Anyone under the age of 18 is required to sign and return and identification form.
EFFECT FOR SECTION 1-3: Immediate disqualification
Section 4 –
if a conflict occurs with starting times of a brace, the next handler in rotation will be moved up and the trial shall continue. The American bird dog federation trial host will make every attempt to make sure that this does not happen. The handler who had the conflict will move back into the regular rotation as soon as possible. NOTE: moving any handler around in rotation is not grounds for protest. Handlers intentionally stalling to keep from moving back into rotation will be considered unsportsmanlike and the handler may be disqualified. ANY DOG that is skipped 2 times will be scored a 0 for that brace unless it is unavoidable, and the trial director is aware of it. It is the responsibility of the handler to have his dog in the blind at the proper time.
Section 5 –
A physically challenged or injured handler may use an ATV, golf cart, or other means of transportation. The trial committee should be aware of this at least 24 hours before they scheduled start time of the trial. The contestant must provide a Designated Walker (DW) and must be approved by the field Marshall or trial committee. The handler must follow along behind the DW at a walking pace. The DW may be another contestant provided the contestant has no more runs in that failed on that day, or the DW may be a designated shooter. NOTE: the trial committee or trial host is not responsible for providing an ATV, golf cart, or other modes of transportation. However, the trial committee or trial host does reserve the right to approve or to not approve a particular mode of transportation. Physically challenged competitors in their own best interests need to contact the trial committee or host prior to the start of the trial to get their particular mode of transportation approved.
Section 6 –
The handler when using a designated shooter calls the “point” for the sequence. The handler may assist the designated shooter with vocal instructions to assist in finding the bird once the bird is located it is the shooter's duties to flush the bird, not the handler. Once the shooter shoots the bird or has finished acting on the bird, he/she must immediately step behind the handler for the duration of the sequence. NOTE: the designated shooter is only used to flush and shoot for the handler nothing else.
Section 7 –
The handler when using a designated Walker does not carry the gun while on the ATV or the other vehicles. The designated Walker carries the gun until the handler calls “point” and it's safely off of his/her ATV, or other vehicle, and can safely handle the gun.
Section 8 –
0 points will be awarded if the handler uses ANY command to whoa his/her dog to point. After the dog has become motionless and the handler has called the “point”, the handler may then whoa the dog. The dog must have been motionless in order for the handler to call the “point”.
Rule 9: Designated Shooter (DS)
Section 1 –
` A designated shooter is a person that is assigned or approved by the field Marshal, trial host, in trial committee for the sole purpose of flushing and shooting for a handler.
Section 2 –
Handlers under the age of 18 may be a designated shooter as long as conditions for a youth hunter have been met.
Section 3 –
Like noted, the DS may not assist the handler in any way other than to carry the gun, flush, and shoot for the handler.
EFFECT: if the designated shooter assists the handler in any way, the judge will score this sequence as a (0) and the bird if still alive will not be scorable for the remainder of the time limit.
Section 4 –
The handler and designated shooter must walk together.
Rule 10: Designated Walker (DW)
Section 1 –
A Designated Walker (DW) is a person that is assigned or approved by the field marshal or trial committee for the purpose of walking for an injured or physically challenged handler. The injured or physically challenged handler may ride in golf cart, ATV or similar mode of transportation approved by the field marshal or trial committee. The Handler must follow behind the Designated Walker (DW) at all times and may guide the DW in any means necessary, as long as the DW and the Handler adhere to the official Rules of the ABDF.
Section 2 –
The DW will carry the gun while the handler rides along behind in an ATV or other vehicle approved by the trial committee or Trial Director.
Section 3 –
The Designated walker must walk at all times as defined in Rule 1, Section 15.
EFFECT: The first warning assessed to the handler; zero (0) points will be deducted. For the second warning, the handler WILL BE DISQUALIFIED.
Section 4 –
The DW will stop walking when the handler calls "Point" and wait for the handler to dismount his/ her ATV or other vehicle. The DW will give the handler the gun when it is safe to do so. The DW will then remain with the judge until the sequence is complete and the handler moves on to the next bird or the Time Limit has expired.
Section 5 –
The DW will not assist the handler in ANY WAY other than to walk and carry the gun for the handler.
EFFECT: For giving assistance to the handler: No points will be awarded for the sequence and if the bird is dead or alive, will not be score able for the remainder of the time limit.
Section 6 –
Handlers under the age of eighteen may be a DW as long as conditions for a youth hunter have been met.
Rule 11: Re-Runs
Section 1 –
A re-run is an aborted run that will start over. The field will be replanted with the number of birds removed since the beginning of the original run. A rest period will be granted prior to the re-run. The rest period will be no less than 5 minutes and no more than 15 minutes. On any re-run, a handler cannot better their time from when the re-run was awarded, but the score can be improved.
NOTE: If the handler chooses not to take the rest period and chooses to continue immediately, this will not be grounds for protest once the handler proceeds with the re-run.
Section 2 –
If the handler chooses a re-run, he/she must remain in the blind while the replacement birds are being planted.
Section 3 –
If ANY dog other than the dog competing in the assigned field interferes in the field with the competing dog; the handler will have the option of a re-run or to continue the run already started. If the handler continues the run in progress, a re-run will not be allowed.
EXAMPLES OF INTERFERENCE: Any dog or person not assigned to the field in which the run is taking place enters into that field and distracts the legal dog in any way. Or flushes a bird from the field or hinders the legal dog in any way will be considered interference. The handler should call attention to the judge of possible interference.
NOTE: An illegal dog simply pointing a bird is not interference, especially if the illegal dog can be removed from the field without flushing a bird.
Section 4 –
A re-run may be awarded for various safety reasons such as but not limited to lightning, darkness or any other incidents that the field marshal or trial committee deems necessary.
Section 5 –
A re- run may be awarded for any inconsistencies in scoring or bird quota. Or for a judge’s error in applying the rules that was brought before the director / trial committee and agreed upon.

Rule 12: Time:
NOTE: During Any ABDF Field Trial, the time will be stopped only at the judge's discretion.
Section 1 –
The judge will record Time used in minutes and seconds. Un-used time is calculated for additional points
Section 2 –
Time will be called by the scorekeeper for any of the following:
a) The hunter ceases to hunt (no points will be awarded for the unused time).
b) The Time Limit has expired.
c) The handler has bagged the established quota of birds. Points will be awarded for unused time.
d) An infraction of a rule, which leads to immediate disqualification.
Section 3 –
If a protest in the field should arise, the judge should note the time and any details of what is being protested and the run should continue. EXCEPTION: When a re-run may or may not be awarded to the handler.
Section 4 –
If time must be stopped for ANY REASON, the dog must be immediately leashed. Time is stopped once the dog is on the leash and in control of the handler. When the handler unleashes the dog, the time will continue.
Section 5 –
Time stops when the handler has bagged the established quota of birds, and the handler has the dog by the collar or lead in bounds.
Section 6 –
The run is over, and the handler must leash his/her dog even if the dog is pointing when the 15-minute time limit has expired.
Section 7 –
The dog and/or handler has 30 seconds after the time limit has expired to retrieve, partially retrieve or to find a downed bird. NOTE: To receive full points for the retrieve the handler must adhere to all Rules concerning Retrieves. Refer to Rule 4. The handler may elect to simply pick up the bird and lose his/her retrieval points in order to bag the bird prior to the 30- second grace period expiring.
Rule 13: Judges
THE ABDF rules are designed for a walking judge.
Section 1 –
Judges must be certified by the ABDF or appointed official.
Section 2 –
Judges and Field Trial Committees have the authority to rule on situations not specifically covered by the rules such as for safety reasons or occurrences which are a rarity
Section 3 –
The Judge must wear a vest or have a means of carrying all shot or dead birds for that run if needed. THE ABDF suggests that the judge will carry all shot or bagged birds.
Section 4 –
Judges are required to count out loud in determination of a good point.
Section 5 –
Judges shall tell the handler if the judge sees the dog on point and shall also assist the handler in locating the dog.
Section 6 –
Judges MAY compete in the field in which they are judging but not until their respective runs in that field are completed for that day.
Rule 14: Collars
Section 1 –
The beeper collar must be worn behind the ears and in front of the shoulders, on the dog’s neck. The beeper collar must be turned on and working properly.
Section 2 –
The dog’s regular collar must not have any kind of prongs.
Section 3 –
Shock collars may be used but NOT for making a dog point (judge’s discretion). 0 (zero) points will be awarded if the handler uses command or shock to whoa the dog to point or during point.



















BY-LAWS
BY LAWS AND CONSTITUTION
Organized Jan. 2015
The ABDF (American Bird Dog Federation) is organized for bird dog sportsmen to be able to compete in fair play and bias free competitions.
Article I: Liability
Section 1 –
All affiliated Trial holders or Clubs that hold and host ABDF Field Trials must carry their own Liability coverage.
Section 2 –
All trial participants must sign a liability waiver.
Article II: Dog Breeds
Section 1 –
It is not required for dogs to be registered. Non-registered dogs are eligible to participate in ABDF, all dogs must be a pointing breed. No pointing Labs.
Article III: Membership dues
Section 1 –
An annual membership fee of $25.00 for individuals or $40 per family will be assessed to each member, which is valid from SEPTEMBER 1 THROUGH AUGUST 31. A family membership consists of the member, spouse and any dependent children under the age of 18. Anyone over the age of 18 must purchase their own membership. Each competitor MUST be a member in order to compete in ABDF field trials. Membership is open to all races, gender or religious beliefs.
Article IV: Trials, Entry fees
Section 1 –
Each trial must be scheduled and posted for at least two weeks.
Section 2 –
The dog must run in two qualifying trials to participate in the national championship.
Section 3 –
Qualifying trials will be a $200 entry fee per dog with a 50% payback. $15 per dog for sanction fee. Each trial host must submit all sanction fees to ABDF National office within 14 days of trial, or the points and the trial will not be validated. The host of such trials will be responsible for returning the entry fees to each competitor.
Article V: Field Trial Hosts & Clubs
All affiliated Trial holders or Clubs that hold and host ABDF Field Trials must carry their own
Liability coverage.
Section 1 –
Trials are to be drawn prior to the scheduled starting time. The draw of the trial MUST BE WITNESSED TO BE A VALID TRIAL. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Section 2 –
The ABDF highly recommends a field trial committee assigned to each trial. The trial committee should be a 3-person committee that is unbiased in his/her decision-making ability and that is familiar with the ABDF Rule Book and has a keen interest in field trailing. The trial committee would serve as a decision-making body that would rule on Protests, changing of running order or a host of possible situations that would or could directly affect the outcome of the field trial. Persons who serve as a judge and a trial committee member should excuse him/her from the decision making of a particular situation if the situation directly or indirectly involves him/her.
ARTICLE VI: Field Trials
Section 1 –
American Bird Dog Federation is open to any pointing dog and consists of one handler and one dog. The dogs will compete in two (2) fifteen (15) minute runs. The two scores will be added at the end of the trial for one total score. The total score of the two runs will determine the order of finish. In case of a tied score the best time over all will be the winner.
The trial director or host in EVERY FIELD TRIAL to be recognized as an official ABDF event must use the following formula for the draw. This is an example of a 10-dog trial for the open pointing division where a dog must run twice.
A – Field B - Field
1st Sammy 1st Ace
2nd Bell 2nd Diamond
3rd Kate 3rd Bud
4th Bo 4th Jill
5th June 5th Baby
6th Ace 6th Sammy
7th Diamond 7th Bell
8th Bud 8th Kate
9th Jill 9th Bo
10th Baby 10th June
ARTICLE VII
Qualifying trials and National Championship
Section 1 –
At all qualifying trials and the National Championship, 4 birds will be planted in manual release wire cages for each dog. If a dog and handler only move 2 birds from the field only these 2 birds will be replaced for the next dog, thus leaving a total of 4 in the field. A Dog can only move 3 birds from the cages. It is the handler's or designated shooters responsibility not the dogs to release the bird from the cage. There will be no points awarded for a dog safety. If a bird will not fly or leave the nest once released, then a handler can be scored a safety for the nonperforming bird. This must be observed by the judge in order for a safety on a nonperforming bird is granted.
Section 2 -
The National Champion automatically receives CHAMPION status.
Section 3 –
Each National Championship will have a 3-member trial committee appointed prior to the running of the National Championships. This committee will be in charge of handling all protests or ANY other un-foreseen topics that may arise during the running of the National Championships. If the trial committee cannot reach a decision or has reached a decision that is contrary to the written rule or by-laws of the official ABDF Rule Book or is not performing its duty in a manner that shows good judgment. Then and only then will the Trial Director intervene.
Section 4 –

High Point Championship Points each club will be allowed 1 Trial per year to be ran for Highpoint, the club must Advertise on the website which trial will be there Highpoint
Trial, below is the Chart of How points will be Calculated 2 points x the number of dogs in trial


Based on a 20 dog Trial 2 x points of dogs in trial
Craig Carby Cinder 1st 40
Jason Hanley Cowboy 2nd 38
Tommy Wiley Star 3rd 36
Stacy Hall Stormy 4th 34
Hardy Jaggers Ruger 5th 32

SECTION 5 -
Field Champion Status
Note: CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS ARE EARNED BY THE DOG AND NOT THE HANDLER!!
a) Open and Amateur Pointing Divisions: A dog must attain 20 points to be recognized as an open or amateur champion in the ABDF. The dog must have two (2) first place finishes to gain a division championship. The remainder of the points needed to complete the championship may come in any combination of points. The system for earning championship points is calculated on the number of dogs participating in the trial and is as follows:
21 dogs and above: 15 to 20 dogs: 6 to 14 dogs:
1st place 5 points 1st place 4 points 1st place 3 points
2nd place 4 points 2nd place 3 points 2nd place 2 points
3rd place 3 points 3rd place 2 points 3rd place 1 point




(OPEN TRIALS MUST HAVE 6 DOGS)
b) Doubles pointing: Championship points are awarded as follows: to gain a championship, the team must have 20 points of which there must be two (2) first-place finishes. The points are awarded as follows:
11 teams or more: 8 to 10 teams: 4 to 7 teams:
1st place 5 points 1st place 4 points 1st place 3 points
2nd place 4 points 2nd place 3 points 2nd place 2 points
3rd place 3 points 3rd place 2 points 3rd place 1 point
(DOUBLE TRIALS MUST HAVE 4 TEAMS)
Championship points carry over year to year until the team earns a championship. The above process must be repeated to gain a second, third, fourth, or more championships.
c) Amateur Pointing: An amateur may become by the above process as spelled out in Article VII, Section 4. An amateur may compete in the amateur division and achieve multiple championships until it no longer qualifies for the amateur division. Each state, top amateur shooting dog will be determined by the amount of dog of the year points earned during that year. (Example 21 dog of the year points would beat 20.)
Section 6 –
Grand Champion Status
A dog can earn Grand Champion Status by achieving 10-time champion.
Article IX: Judges
All judges will be with handler. NO Birds will be flushed by the handler until the judge tells the handler the point is good. Judges are required to be behind the handler when flush is made and preferably kneeling down. If the judge thinks the handler is walking at a faster pace than his normal walk, he will warn handler to slow down. If a second warning is given to a handler for rushing/running, then the handler will have 5 points deducted from their scorecard. If a third warning is given to a handler for rushing/running, then the handler will be disqualified from trial. All judges should be in close proximity of the flush, so he/she is less likely to cause a safety. Judges will pick up empty cages as handler moves the birds and bring them back to gallery when exiting the field or leave them in an open area visible for the Bird Planter.
The judges are the representatives of the ABDF for the particular field trial which they have been assigned. Judges are authorized and required to enforce the rules contained in this book. The judges have the power to order a handler, DS or DW to do, or refrain from doing, any act that is necessary to enforce any of these rules; and to inflict any penalties prescribed.
Section 1 –
Handlers must sign their score card before their score will count.
Section 2 –
Each judge shall have the power to make decisions on violations committed anytime during the assigned run or suspension of time until the scorecard is signed.
Section 3 –
A judge may consult with the Trial Committee or Trial Director before signing the scorecard.
Section 4 –
A judge has the legal authority to remove any participant from the field for violations of the rules as described in this book.
Section 5 –
A judge may stop the time when, in his/her judgment, conditions justify such action.
ARTICLE X: Protests
Section 1 –
ALL protest must be made immediately during the run. The clock must be stopped, and Trial committee gotten involved before another bird is moved from the field or planted on same field. All protests will be settled before any further actions will take place on same field.
Section 2 –
PROTESTS SHALL NOT be considered or allowed if the protest is based solely on a decision involving judgment on the part of the judge. Examples (but not limited too) situations which will not be considered, are:
- Whether a handler, DW, or DS was running or not.
- Whether a dog pointed for 3 seconds or not.
- Whether a handler whoa’d his/her dog to point.
- Whether a bird was in bounds or out of bounds.
- Whether or not the handler moved more than the one step limit during the retrieve.
- Whether a safety was or was not awarded by the judge.
Section 3 –
PROTESTS THAT SHALL be considered are:
- Misinterpretation of a rule that does not involve the judgment of the judge.
- Failure of a judge to apply the correct rule to a given situation.
- Failure to impose the correct penalty for a given situation.
Section 4 –
The Decision made on a protested run must result in one of the following:
- The protest is found invalid and the run stands as per the official scorecard.
- When a protest is allowed for misinterpretation of a rule, the scorecard will either be corrected, or the handler will be awarded a re-run if a re-run is in order.
ARTICLE XI: Acts of Disbarment or Suspension
Section 1 –
Any ABDF member or gallery member who's conduct on or off the field that would be detrimental to the ABDF, or the Sport of Field Trialing will be dealt with immediately. The ABDF expects that all members or gallery members to act in a manner where sportsmanship is always practiced. The ABDF reserves the right to withdraw Membership (with no refund of said membership) during the running or otherwise any membership of anyone not adhering to these by-laws.
Section 2 –
The ABDF will not tolerate any of following un-sportsmanlike behaviors:
- Any abusive behavior in any form, from anyone, during an ABD field trial.
- Any competitor or gallery member using words or actions that will incite demonstrations.
- Using any form of intimidation tactics.
- The use of any behavior that is not conducive to fair play.
- Handling guns in any unsafe manner whatsoever.
- Fighting, or any kind of physical attack on a judge or trial official in any manner.
- An ABDF member falsifying his/her age.
- Anyone participating in or permitting a fraud to be perpetrated including running an ineligible dog.
- Any person or persons submitting a bad check or stopping payment of a check to the ABDF or its representatives, representatives or field trial hosts.
- Any handler who "NO SHOWS" an event without notifying the trial host prior to ordering birds. EFFECT: Handler must pay the entry fee to the trial host that said handler "NO SHOWED" before being permitted to run in anymore ABDF events. If handler refuses, the handler will be permanently disbarred until entry fee is remitted.
- Any person who purposely uses false information to damage the reputation, image, or credibility of the ABDF or its representatives or representatives.
- Any member that purposely is physically abusive to a dog during the trial.
- Any ABDF member that violates any of this Constitution/By-Laws or does not adhere to the policies or procedures of the ABDF may be suspended.
- Any ABDF member that fails to submit fees and/or information due to the ABDF In a 14-day time may be suspended.

Documents

Rule Book and By-Laws