I know for a fact that alot of the proffesional dogs are used just as triallers,alot do not participate in a basic shooting day, I know Nic "drummuir" does, but I am sure she will vouch that alot of the dogs just do trialling. I think its a huge shame but thats the way it is, hopefully she will comment on the subject!
regards RS
that can be true with some trialers i know someone who took his open trial dog heavily picking up one season and then it was ruined for the trialing season. but saying this if you can stay on top of the dog it shouldnt be a problem how much you take them out