11/03/2026
🏹🐕 St Hubert hunting dog competitions: preserving tradition and skills
Hunting dog competitions held under the St Hubert discipline are an important part of hunting culture across Europe. These events test not only the abilities of the dogs, but also the skills, ethics and cooperation between hunter and dog in a realistic hunting environment.
Such competitions are organised in many European countries and help maintain high standards in dog training, responsible hunting practices and wildlife management.
Our member Union of Hunters and Anglers in Bulgaria Съюз на ловците и риболовците в България recently reported on the latest regional round of the National St Hubert Tournament held in southeastern Bulgaria, where hunters and their pointing dogs competed for a place in the national final.
During these events, judges evaluate several aspects of the hunter–dog team, including:
🐕 the dog’s search pattern and use of scent
🎯 the hunter’s safety and shooting discipline
🌿 respect for wildlife and hunting ethics
🤝 teamwork between dog and handler
Competitions like these are not only about winning. They play an important role in maintaining hunting traditions, improving dog training standards and promoting ethical hunting practices.
The St Hubert discipline has become one of the most recognised formats for hunting dog competitions in Europe, bringing together hunters who share a passion for working dogs and responsible hunting.
