Glossary

Earthdog

A test in which small terriers and Dachshunds follow a scent through a tunnel to reach a caged quarry, showing their instinct to hunt underground.

Also called: earthdog test, go to ground, den trial, AKC earthdog, terrier trial

Earthdog is a non-competitive test for small dogs bred to go underground after quarry, such as the Border Terrier, the Cairn Terrier and the Dachshund. A dog enters a man-made tunnel with turns and obstacles and follows the scent to a cage at the end, where caged rats are protected by a barrier so that neither animal can be hurt. The dog shows interest by barking or digging at the quarry.

The AKC offers levels that begin with an introduction and move through junior, senior and master titles. Judges look for working ability and drive.

The test lets a dog use an old instinct safely. It does not apply to every breed, and the American Kennel Club limits it mainly to certain terriers and the Dachshund. A dog that has never entered a tunnel may need time to feel confident.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Terrier Group The AKC group of breeds developed to hunt and kill vermin such as rats, foxes and badgers, usually small to medium, bold and energetic. Hound Group The AKC group of breeds developed to hunt by scent or by sight, from the Beagle and Bloodhound to the Greyhound and Whippet. Lure coursing A sport in which dogs chase a mechanically pulled lure across a field in a pattern that simulates running prey, mainly for sighthounds.