The Maryland Sporting Dog Association (MSDA) is a group of dog owners and friends working for the good of all dogs, but especially sporting dogs. We endeavor to rise above our human weaknesses for the sake of our canine companions and put our best efforts toward furthering the advancement of sporting breeds, to protect and advance the interests of sporting dogs and sporting dog activities, to conduct sporting dog events, and to encourage sportsmanlike behavior in all situations.

MSDA was first organized in 1974. Through the years we have hosted conformation shows, obedience trials, hunt tests, field trials, training sessions and social events. We also participate in regional outreach and support other local dog club activities.

We’re a FUN and welcoming club! Most of our events are open to everyone. We welcome your participation as a registrant, volunteer and/or club member.

MSDA’s three-day Spring Event is Friday, February 28-Sunday, March 2 at the Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, MD. The event includes three days of AKC Sporting Group dog shows (always among the biggest sporting group shows in the country), as well as Bird Instinct Clinics and AKC Fetch Testing. The dog-loving public is welcome to attend!

2024 Win Photo by David Sombach

Instinct Clinic – photo by Bryan Sirotkin

MSDA will hold Bird Instinct Clinics on February 28, March 1 and 2 at Howard County Fairgrounds as a part of the club’s annual “Spring Event”. For a bird dog with little or no field experience, this is a great way to get started.

AKC Fetch Tests for all levels (Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Retriever) also will be offered on Saturday, March 1 and Sunday, March 2.

Canine Good Citizen (CGC, CGC-A and Trick Dog) tests will be offered on Saturday, March 1 and Sunday, March 2.


Bigger and better than ever! MSDA’s Spring Hunt Test Weekend will be Friday-Sunday, April 11-13 at Mt Ararat Farm in Port Deposit, MD.

New location and new dates! AKC Spaniel Hunt Tests will be held on Saturday and Sunday 4/12-13 at Mt Ararat Farm in Port Deposit, MD. We’re running this test as two divisions, so there is plenty of room for all interested participants. The premium is available and entries are open at HuntSecretary.com.

PLUS, Something New! We are proud to announce an exciting new event to be held for the first time to challenge master level flushing dogs. This Master Gundog Challenge is designed for elite gundogs  spaniels, retrievers, and other flushing breeds  to demonstrate their proficiency in advanced upland work, waterfowl work, and teamwork. The Master Gundog Challenge also will be held at Mt Ararat Farm as part of the Spring Hunt Test Weekend on Friday, April 11.

(above) 2024 Fall Hunt Test photo by Matt Toth


MSDA sponsors a variety of activities and events throughout the year. Use the main menu to learn more about us and explore what we offer.


Members’ Photo Gallery