Barn Hunt Events

Barn Hunt is based on the traditional roles of many breeds in ridding farms, barns, crop storage areas, and homes of destructive vermin. Some breeds were specifically created to fill this role, and for many of those breeds, Barn Hunt provides their first true opportunity for responsible breeders to test proper working traits in their dogs. Barn Hunt is also open to any dog of any breed or mix who wishes to play the game and can fit through an 18″ wide by bale-height tall tunnel. Barn Hunt has titles, levels of increasing difficulty, and championships. Barn Hunt is an independent sport, but titles are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). To see how to get your title recognized, go to FAQs and About (AKC/UKC/CKC).

 

Barn Hunt holds rat care at the highest level of consideration. The rats used in Barn Hunt are beloved family pets. They jump eagerly into their safe, comfortable aerated tubes and truly enjoy interacting with the dogs.

We’re a great sport for older dogs, and older people too! Tripod dogs can compete, and so can deaf dogs. Blind dogs and dogs in wheeled carts can compete in Line Drive. To get started first read the rules, then find a club near you, or even think about forming your own club. You can also find events on the event calendar. We hope you try it, we think you’ll like it!

Barn Hunt has partnered with the U.S. Center for SafeSport to provide a safe environment for all participants.

This information is from the Barn Hunt Association website.

Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 9:00-9:45 am, 10:30-11:15 am, 1:00-1:45pm, 2:00-2:45 pm

Barn Hunt Demonstration

Presenter: Heidi Fuge View Event Details for Barn Hunt Demonstration
Hosted By: Saratoga (NY) Kennel Club Event Type: Demonstration Event Duration: 45 Minutes

Experienced dogs and handlers will show what is involved in Barn Hunt. Heidi Fuge will narrate and explain how the dogs are trained, and some of the Barn Hunt Association rules. All levels from Novice to Masters will be demonstrated with a variety of dog breeds. Experienced competitors from the Saratoga (NY) Kennel Club will be on hand to answer questions and chat with the audience.

Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026 9:00-9:45 am, 10:30-11:15 am, 1:00-1:45pm, 2:00-2:45 pm

Barn Hunt Try-its

Presenter: Heidi Fuge Cost: $10 View Event Details for Barn Hunt Try-its
Hosted By: Saratoga (NY) Kennel Club Event Type: Try Event Duration: 45 Minutes

Handlers can sign up on Saturday or Sunday for a Barn Hunt try-it session on Sunday lasting approximately 8 minutes per dog. Dogs will be introduced to a PVC tube with a rat sitting safely in it and then allowed to hunt for that tube in a course built of hay bales.
NOTE: The safety of the rat is paramount and dogs will not at any time be allowed to interact with a rat.