Barn hunt: what is it?

Barn hunt (literally translated “hunting in the barn”) is a new kind of cynological sport. However, it is becoming more and more popular. What is a barn hunt and how is it done?

This type of cynological sport was invented in the USA. Barn hunt is a conditional rat hunt. The rodents are caged in the barn, and the dog must find it by traversing the maze of hay bales. The labyrinth includes burrows, slides, bridges and tunnels. The winner is the one who finds all the hidden rats faster than his rivals.

An important condition of this sport is concern for the well-being of rats. Rodents are specially trained, accustomed to dogs and often given the opportunity to rest so that the animals do not suffer from distress. There must be a drinker in the cage. In addition, the cage prevents the dog from inflicting physical harm on the rat.

In addition, attempts to grab a rat deprive the dog of points. Her task is only to find the “victim”.

A variety of dogs over 6 months old, regardless of breed, can participate in the barn hunt. However, completely blind or deaf dogs are not allowed to compete. There is also a size limitation: the diameter of the tunnel is approximately 45 cm, so the dog must not get stuck in it.

The necessary qualities that are required from a dog are intelligence, obedience and at the same time the ability to make independent decisions. Not the last role is played by the sense of smell and the hunting instinct.