What Is NAVHDA?
NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and improving versatile hunting dogs and the skills needed to hunt with them.
NAVHDA focuses on real-world hunting ability through training, education, and standardized testing—not competition.
What Does “Versatile” Mean?
A versatile hunting dog is capable of:
- Pointing upland game
- Tracking wounded game
- Retrieving on land and water
- Working cooperatively with a handler
NAVHDA welcomes a wide range of breeds and experience levels.
What Is NAVHDA Toronto?
NAVHDA Toronto is the local Ontario chapter serving the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding regions.
We provide:
- Organized training days
- Official NAVHDA tests
- Education and mentorship
- A supportive, welcoming community
Whether you’re brand new or experienced, you’ll find people willing to help.
What Happens in Your First Year?
Most new members:
- Attend training days to learn basics
- Meet other handlers and dogs
- Learn how NAVHDA tests work
- Decide if and when they want to enter a test
There’s no pressure to test right away.
Do I Need a “Finished” Dog?
Absolutely not.
NAVHDA is designed for:
- Puppies
- Young dogs
- First-time handlers
- Experienced hunters
Training days are structured to support all levels.
How Do I Get Started?
- Become a member of NAVHDA Toronto
- Attend a training day
- Learn at your own pace
- Enter a test when you’re ready