There are many unique breeds that make outstanding hunting dogs, but not all are classified exclusively as hunting dogs. For example: hounds hunt small prey such as jackrabbits, raccoons, and other animals that make their homes in thickets and underbrush. Not each and every hound hunts exclusively with scent, as some use their well-developed eyesight too (sight hounds).
Gun dogs are another common category of hunting dog. Remember, not all hunting dogs are gun dogs. Gun dogs are primarily used by hunters who hunt with shotguns, mainly those hunting for various types of fowl. They encompass retrievers, pointers, setters, and spaniels usually. Terriers and feists are also types of gun dogs and have been known to squeeze into rabbit holes and other hideouts to chase out game. Curs are larger hunting dogs and are able to hunt bigger game, such as cougars.
There are numerous diverse breeds of gun dogs. They are outstanding dogs when you are in the hunt for those to retrieve or even chase game. Each breed has unique abilities and personalities. A brief breakdown of these abilities and personalities:
Retrievers
Not only are retrievers a good choice as hunting dogs, but they also make wonderful family pets. They are excellent swimmers and like the water. If you are intending on hunting ducks or other fowl close to the water, you should choose a retriever, as he will have no problem grabbing birds, whether they are on land or in the water. Retrievers also learn the command “fetch” easier than most other dogs, as their natural instinct is to retrieve items.
Spaniels
A few spaniels enjoy water, but their ability lies in finding game that hides in thick cover. They are like retrievers in that they then bring the game back to you. Cocker spaniels are particularly good family pets, but also fantastic hunters. English springer spaniels and cocker spaniels are two of the most common spaniel breeds used for hunting, although field spaniels are also growing in popularity. Spaniels can be used to chase game out of hiding and retrieve it on land and water alike.
Pointers
Pointers, such as the German shorthaired pointer, find the prey for the hunter and point at it, hence their name. This breed will cover a much larger region than spaniels, but rely on the hunter to draw out the prey.
Setters
Setters, similar to pointers, will both find and point at game, but will also track prey using excellent smelling abilities when ordered to do so. Setters, such as English setters, are very skillful at tracking upland birds such as quail and pheasants. They are very popular hunting dogs in places like Ireland and England.
Water Dogs
Although we do not often think of the poodle as a type of hunting dog, they are a type of retriever and swim very well, therefore they can be classified as a hunting dog. The larger breeds of poodles (instead of the little lap dogs) are good dogs to use for hunting when around the water. It is important to remember that they are different from other dogs in that poodles have hair instead of fur that must be clipped on occasion. However, they are a very good choice for those who suffer from dog allergies for this same reason.
The kind of hunting you plan on doing will govern the category of hunting dog that is appropriate for you. Try to plan for this beforehand, so that when you seek out your quarry you have the right expectations for the dog. Knowing what your dog is able to do will lend a hand when you teach him to be the best hunting dog he knows how to be.
When purchasing bird dogs you must also consider what kind of dog supplies you might need. A few supplies to consider are Innotek ADV-1002 and Innotek ADV-300.
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