Even though Miniature Schnauzers were not bred to go after game underground, they are allowed to compete with the other terriers in earthdog trials. Earthdog Tests are a non-competitive program beginning with a basic introduction to den work and quarry, and progressing through gradual steps that require the dog to demonstrate that it is capable of being trained to follow game to ground and work its quarry.

These timed tests are designed to help evaluate a dog's natural abilities, using a pass/fail scoring system. The AKC requires two passing scores in Junior Earthdog, three in Senior Earthdog, and four in Master Earthdog. The dog must be capable of getting through a 9" x 9" wooden liner, which is buried underground, over a scent trail which leads to caged rats at the end.
The den for the Junior Earthdog Test provides a tunnel approximately 30 feet in length, with three 90 degree turns. The dog has thirty seconds in which to reach the quarry, and then he must work it for one full minute. Working the quarry is defined as digging, barking, growling, lunging, or biting at the quarry. At the end of 60 seconds, the top of the liner is removed and the dog is lifted out of the tunnel.

The Senior and Master get progressively more difficult with more skills needed.

Earthdog Videos

The dog is to run to the tunnel, go through it, then bark at the quarry at the end of the tunnel. In these videos, the trap door for retrieving the dog is opened so that you can see the dog working. In actual earthdog trials, the dog works in the dark.

Obedience | Agility | Earthdog | Tracking | Housepet