For NASDA Shed Dog events, “shed” refers to the antlers of any horned animal. While whitetail deer antler sheds are preferred, clubs may also use antlers from other regionally appropriate ungulates, such as elk, antelope, moose, or similar animals.

Antler Selection Criteria

To ensure fairness, safety, and a natural experience for dogs, the following guidelines should be followed:

1. Real Antlers Only:
   • Antlers must be authentic. Synthetic antlers, such as those made from plastic, rubber, or other materials, are not permitted.
2. Unmodified Antlers:
   • Antlers should not be heavily modified. Avoid antlers that have been sanded down or altered for artistic purposes.
   • The burr (the base of the antler where it attaches to the skull) should remain intact.
3. Appropriate Size:
   • Ensure the antlers are of sizes suitable for dogs of all sizes. Have a mix of small, medium, and large antlers on hand to accommodate a variety of breeds and sizes.
4. Quantity of Antlers:
   • Clubs hosting all levels of Shed Dog events should have a minimum of 6 antlers on hand, with 8–10 of varying sizes preferred to provide flexibility in trial setups.
   • For clubs hosting only Shed Puppy Aptitude, Level I, and Level II, a minimum of 2 antlers is required. This allows for:
     • One antler for teams to warm up on
     • One antler to be used in the search area

Why Size and Type Matter

Having a variety of antler sizes ensures inclusivity, enabling smaller dogs to successfully retrieve antlers without undue difficulty. Using only real, natural antlers provides an authentic training and competition experience while aligning with NASDA’s mission to replicate real-world conditions.

By carefully selecting and preparing antlers for your events, you’re creating a rewarding experience for both handlers and dogs while maintaining the integrity and standards of NASDA Shed Dog events.