Learn about the hunting dog...When most people envision the epitome of a dog, chances are it is a member of the sporting group.

There are several dog breeds in the sporting group. This gun dog group includes several varieties of Setters, Pointers, Spaniels and Retrievers. These breeds were developed to help hunters find, flush and retrieve birds.
 
   These types of dogs can hunt in a variety of environments. You'll find some, like the Chesapeake Bay Retriever or Irish Water Spaniel, have heavy coats to protect them from water and heavy brush. Others, like the Vizsla or Weimaraner have adapted with short coats so they don't catch burrs and seed pods as they seek and point birds through the tall grasses.

All gun dog breeds are intelligent, and have good personalities. They usually do well in a family situation and are perfectly suitable companions for children. They will happily play fetch for hours! When you're ready to take them hunting, they will show the same determined focus to the job at hand.

     These breeds  are quite well known in North America and represent only a few of the sporting dogs
                                    
•    English Pointer                                                                    
•    English Setter
•    Gordon Setter
•    Brittany Spaniel
•    German Shorthaired Pointer
•    Springer Spaniel
•    Labrador Retriever
•    Golden Retriever
•    Chesapeake Bay Retriever
•    Vizsla
•    Weimaraner

They are all considered gun dogs by NAVHDA  North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association. Other types of hunting dogs include hounds (sight hounds and scent hounds), terriers and curs.

Training is important… whatever breed you choose, you want them to be comfortable  with shotguns and be attentive to all commands. These dog breeds are natural hunters, and bird dog training should build upon their natural instincts. You'll eventually end up with  a determined hunting partner who shares your enthusiasm in the outdoors and fits in easily at home.  Hunters seek a dedicated companion who shares  the  excitement , eager to get on with the job at hand.

Hunting dogs are easy going and have wonderful temperaments.  Activity and exercise need to be part of their daily routine. With stimulation, few problems should arise. They are loyal and eager to please. These types of dogs deliver with heart, going the extra mile, bring purpose to the  excitement of the hunt and unfailing loyalty to his owner.

 Duck hunting brings you along the water, and it is likely that any waterfowl you bag will fall into the lake. Your retriever that loves the water and doesn't shy away from jumping in to fetch the duck. Conversely, if you prefer field hunting for upland game, you'll want a dog that can move easily through the brush and grasses.

Whatever breed , your hunting dog will be your teammate for life., and wonder how you ever hunted without a partner

Return to Home Page from Hunting Dog