Field trials are typically held for which two dog groups?

Field trials are competitions that assess the abilities of dogs in various tasks, particularly in hunting and retrieving game. The two dog groups that are primarily associated with field trials are the Sporting Group and the Hound Group.

Dogs in the Sporting Group, like retrievers, spaniels, and pointers, are bred for their skills in hunting, retrieving, and working in the field. These breeds are often evaluated on their abilities to locate and retrieve game while exhibiting traits such as teamwork, endurance, and energy.

The Hound Group, which includes breeds like beagles and foxhounds, is distinguished by their ability to track and pursue. These dogs rely heavily on their keen sense of smell and stamina, making them ideal candidates for field trials that test their tracking and chasing abilities.

Other groups like Working, Herding, Toy, or Non-Sporting focus on different tasks or companionship, but they do not have the same emphasis on the retrieving or scenting abilities essential in field trial competitions. Thus, the connection of Sporting and Hound dogs to field trials makes this combination the correct answer.