Dog sniffing straw-covered ground with PVC pipe containers.

Barn Hunt Adventures for Griffons

Barn Hunt is inspired by the traditional roles of many breeds in eliminating vermin from farms, barns, crop storage areas, and homes. Some breeds were originally specifically developed for this task, and Barn Hunt offers a unique opportunity for responsible breeders to test these working traits in their dogs. However, Barn Hunt is open to any dog, regardless of breed or mix, that can fit through an 18" wide by bale-height tall tunnel.

  • Titles and Championships: Barn Hunt offers various levels of difficulty and titles, including championships. Titles are recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), and Canadian Kennel Club (CKC).

    Inclusivity: Barn Hunt is great for older dogs and handlers. Tripod dogs, deaf dogs, and even blind dogs or those in wheeled carts can compete in specific categories like Line Drive.

    Rat Care: The rats used in Barn Hunt are well-cared-for family pets. They enjoy interacting with the dogs from the safety of their comfortable, aerated tubes.

  • Any dog that can fit through an 18″ wide by bale-height tall tunnel is eligible to participate in Barn Hunt. This includes breeds specifically created for vermin hunting as well as many mixed breeds.

  • Barn Hunt events start with a pass/fail instinct class for owners who want to familiarize their dogs with the test. The courses become increasingly challenging by adding more obstacles, diversions, and rats to find. Dogs can earn several types of Barn Hunt titles, including:

    Novice Barn Hunt (RATN)

    Open Barn Hunt (RATO)

    Senior Barn Hunt (RATS)

    Master Barn Hunt (RATM)

    Barn Hunt Champion (RATCh)

    Master Champion (RATChX)

    Crazy 8s Bronze (CZ8B)

    Crazy 8s Silver (CZ8S)

    Crazy 8s Gold (CZ8G)

    Crazy 8s Platinum (CZ8P)

  • Recognized Titles

    The Barn Hunt Association is an independent organization, and titles earned can be recognized by The American Kennel Club. Titles earned in Novice and above will be recognized by The American Kennel Club. To apply for your dog’s Barn Hunt title, simply complete the application.

Get Involved

Join the Barn Hunt Adventure with Your Griffon!

If you live in the countryside, you understand the crucial role of "rat catchers" in keeping farms free from destructive vermin. Barn Hunt builds on these essential skills, offering a fun and challenging sport where dogs and their handlers team up to locate and mark rats safely held in aerated tubes hidden in a maze of straw or hay bales.

Join the Barn Hunt community and put your Griffon's natural instincts to the test. The Barn Hunt Association, an independent organization, recognizes titles earned through Barn Hunt, which the American Kennel Club also acknowledges. Get started today and experience the thrill of Barn Hunt with your Griffon!