How to Apply Field Trial Paint

During field trials, judges need a simple method for identifying competing dogs from a distance. Field trial paint -- used to mark dogs with an identifying number -- is the tool that is commonly employed to assist in identification. The most common method of marking field trial dogs is with white lacquer paint. The identifying number is painted on both broad sides of a competing dog in 1-by-2-foot lettering. This allows judges to score the animal from a distance, and prevents the need to disturb the animal and its trainer during trials.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Water
  • Towel
  • Assistant
  • 1-inch paint brush
  • Field trail paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the dog thoroughly. While most trainers wash their dogs prior to field competitions for appearance's sake, it is also important to clean the hair on the sides of the dog in order to remove skin oils, dust and dirt. Be sure to thoroughly dry the dog after washing; it must be completely dry prior to applying field trial paint.

    • 2

      Stand the dog on all four legs. Ask a partner to hold the dog by the collar and under the tail if it does not stand still well. Talk to the dog quietly to keep it calm.

    • 3

      Dab the bottom third of the paint brush in the field trial paint. Begin painting the number 3-inches below and behind the shoulder. Paint each number 4-inches at a time, making sure to paint with the grain of the dog's coat. Dip the brush in the paint again and continue painting the next 4-inches. Continue in this way until the number is complete. Remember that the numeral should be 1-by-2-foot in size. Center the numbers so that the last numeral ends in front of the dog's stifle, a joint in the hind limb. Repeat this process on the other side of the dog.