About American Field

The bird dog field trial pastime encompasses several facets of the game, from horseback stakes to walking events, on every upland gamebird--quail, pheasant, prairie chicken, grouse, woodcock, chukar, and Hungarian partridge.

The American Field Sportsman's Journal followed the field trial sport in America since 1874, providing its readers with the very latest news on purebred sporting dogs and field trial competition results. Though print ceased temporarily in 2020, all regular content remained available on the American Field website. UKC acquired American Field Publishing Co., in September 2021 and once again offered a print outlet available by monthly subscription, UKC® Field, beginning in March 2022.

The Field Dog Stud Book (FDSB) is the oldest purebred dog registry in the United States helping dog owners with authentic documentation, registration, certified pedigrees, and DNA services. After acquiring original publisher of FDSB, American Field Publishing Co., in September 2021, UKC assumed the role as steward of authentic FDSB documentation.

Thankfully, some things never change. One such thing is the heart-stopping moment when a pointing dog makes game. Throughout a 150-year-old tradition known as American Field, this intensity has fueled the passion of sporting dog people around the world. With preservation in mind for the bloodlines, the game and wonderful places where we enjoy them, this same phenomenon is sure to be felt 150 years from today.
It all begins with the hopeful anticipation of a well-bred litter. The conditioning to the sites and sounds of a pup's new world is as varied as the particular interests of each pup's new human partner. Patience and persistence will always be the key along with a reminder to enjoy the ride in the development of each new prospect. The fact that they are with us for such a very short time remains the only real problem which we will never overcome.
Use the generic term "bird dog" in a conversation with another pointing dog enthusiast and a varying image immediately comes to the mind of the listener depending on his or her location, style of hunting, preferred game species, and many other factors. Luckily for us, our options regarding the pointing breed we wish to spend an enjoyable day in the field with are many. Without question there are outstanding specimens from all the breeds who apply their trade with style and grace. As the saying goes, "Every dog has its day," so also be prepared for those moments you would rather forget regardless of your breed of choice!
Selection and training are only half the battle when it comes to the development of an outstanding bird dog. Care and conditioning are immeasurably important when it comes to realizing your dog's full potential whether your goal is a blue ribbon or a day of gunning with family and friends. It's important to remember that not all conditioning needs to be done individually and in the presence of game. The field trial community are experts at keeping multiple dogs in optimal condition.
As with many activities, one of the real treasures of the sport of field trialing lies within the community itself. To the devoted pointing dog enthusiast, the enjoyment of the outdoor experience along with its premier bird cover, great dogs and plentiful game is more important than the competition itself. It is human nature to want to see how our personal dog stacks up to the competition. But at the end of the day, it's about the friendships and the places this journey takes us.
Regardless of where you live, what type of bird you hunt or which breed of pointing dog you prefer, there is an opportunity for you to become involved at an entry level into the sport of field trialing. This is very much a grass roots endeavor without an elitist mentality. Local clubs are standing by to help you and your dog bridge the gap between hunting seasons. Take the first step by attending a field trial in your area. The companion that points your birds will thank you later.

United Kennel Club®

Guided by the belief that dogs make a difference by being the best partner a human can have in the field, on the job, or in a competition event, UKC is a community for people and dogs to pursue excellence together. Founded in 1898, UKC enhances the lives of Dogs That Do More™, and their owners, by providing essential resources to help owners and breeders make informed decisions. The dog-human bond is celebrated through family-friendly programs highlighting the instincts and heritage of purebred and mixed-breed dogs alike at over 18,000 licensed events annually.

UKC's comprehensive event opportunities highlight dogs' instinct and heritage while encouraging the human-canine bond. Structured, aimable competition lends integrity to all UKC titles and degrees. Through UKC registry services, performance and hunting events, and experienced staff committed to accurate and helpful customer service, UKC dogs are Real Dogs for Real People.