Bird Dog Breeds

Explore bird dog breeds, training resources, and how habitat protection supports every hunt.

Without Bird dogs, would we hunt at all?

For serious upland bird hunters, the idea of hunting pheasants (or any other gamebird for that matter) without a bird dog is a path to frustration, futility and no fun.

Bird Finders

A dog is essential for finding birds and helping you get them in the air.

Conservation Tool

Dogs help you locate downed birds and track down winged birds. Many bird dogs will even retrieve your trophy to hand.

Hunting Partners

The bond between hunter and bird dog is both ancient and magical.

Are you looking for your next bird dog or your first? Our profiles get you started on learning more about 38 proven breeds for upland hunting.

Flushing dogs

Flushing dogs work cover close to the hunter – within shotgun range – and work to put birds into the air for a shot. It’s up to hunter to know his or her dog and when it is “birdy,” and be ready. Many flushing dogs are also natural retrievers, and it can be as easy to train the dog to bring birds back as it is to teach the dog to stay close while scouring cover.

American Water Spaniel

Developed in the upper Midwest, this mid-sized flusher is well-suited to a variety of game

Breed: American Water Spaniel

Type: Flusher

Developed in the upper Midwest, this mid-sized flusher is well-suited to a variety of game

Hunting Style

American water spaniels are steady, close-working flushers and excellent retrievers that stay within shotgun range at a moderate pace. Their dense, curly coats and strong retrieving instinct also makes them excellent waterfowl dogs. Like many of the small flushers, American water spaniels are versatile dogs that take to flushing naturally. They have keen noses, a naturally strong desire to retrieve, and are as at home hunting over water as in upland areas; as such they make excellent dual-purpose dogs.

General Appearance

American Water Spaniels are well-built midsize gundogs, recognizable by a thick brown coat that is either tightly curled or wavy. The coat is dense and waterproof, the feet are thickly padded, and the toes are webbed.

Size

The American water spaniel’s height ranges from 15 to 18 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders. Males weigh 30 to 45 pounds, while females are in the 25- to 40-pound range.

Disposition

American water spaniels are keenly intelligent and friendly dogs, that, like most dog breeds, crave human companionship. The key to keeping the American water spaniel happy is activity, as they can become overactive if not exercised. American water spaniels make good upland flushers, and would be an excellent choice for someone with limited space looking for a dog to do it all.

Did you know?

American water spaniels were developed in Wisconsin and Minnesota as a do-it-all dog to meet the unique challenges of hunting the Great Lakes region. In 1985, the American water spaniel was named the official state dog of Wisconsin.

Boykin Spaniel

Developed in the Carolina lowlands, but well-suited to a variety of upland hunting

Breed: Boykin Spaniel

Type: Flusher

Developed in the Carolina lowlands, but well-suited to a variety of upland hunting

Hunting Style

Boykin spaniels generally quarter within shotgun range at a moderate, steady pace. This gives them the ability to hunt for long stretches of time. Boykins track birds both by scent and sight. Known for “hesitation flushes” – they don’t flush birds with wild abandon, instead taking their time before making an aggressive flush – Boykin spaniels are versatile dogs that don’t need to be commanded to flush birds. They have keen noses, a naturally strong desire to retrieve, and are as at home hunting over water as in upland areas; as such they make excellent dual-purpose dogs for uplanders who also like to chase a few ducks too..

General Appearance

Boykin spaniels are medium-sized dogs with a double coat of fur – a short, dense undercoat and a longer, wavy outercoat. This helps them stave off cold water. Their coat is brown, but its darkness ranges from rich chocolate to solid liver. Boykin’s coats are shorter than other those of other spaniels, and their tails are generally docked to one-third of full length..

Size

Solid dogs, Boykin’s height ranges from 14 to 18 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders. Males weigh 30 to 40 pounds, while females are in the 25- to 35-pound range.

Disposition

Boykins are intelligent and friendly, getting along well with children and other dogs. They are good and affectionate family dogs that thrive on human companionship. While hunting, Boykins are enthusiastic, energetic and willing workers. They make good upland dogs in general, but seem particularly suited to pheasants, as well as quail.

Did you know?

Boykin spaniels were first bred in the early 1900s by hunters in South Carolina. They needed small, rugged dogs for hunting ducks and wild turkeys in the Wateree River Swamp; larger retrievers were too big for the small boats hunters used to access the river corridors.

Chesapeake Bay Retreiver

A rugged and loyal retriever that can withstand the harshest of conditions and hunt all day

Breed: Chesapeake Bay Retreiver

Type: Flusher

A rugged and loyal retriever that can withstand the harshest of conditions and hunt all day

Hunting Style

Chesapeake Bay retrievers are rugged, tough dogs that are in many ways synonymous with harsh hunting conditions. Their coats and skin are designed to resist low temperatures and icy water – as their name suggests, they’re built to make long retrieves in the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay – but they make good upland partners as well. Athletic dogs with stamina in abundance, Chesapeake Bay retrievers have strong hunting drive, a natural retrieving ability, and they generally stay within gun range. They’re also great for tracking wounded or running birds because they just won’t give up.

General Appearance

Chesapeake Bay retrievers sport a thick, short coat and a heavy undercoat that keeps them warm and dry even in extreme conditions. Their fur is generally wavy, and oily to the touch. The breed features solid coat colors that range from chocolate brown to dark sedge. One of their recognizable traits is their yellow-amber eyes. Tails are left full.

Size

Chesapeakes are solid, sturdy dogs with a height ranging from 21 to 16 inches from the ground to the highest point on the shoulders. Males weigh from 65 to 80 pounds, females from 55 to 70 pounds. Despite their size, Chessies are agile, especially when kept lean.

Disposition

Chesapeake Bay retrievers are intelligent, intensely loyal dogs that are more emotionally complex than other breeds. Protective of their owners and family, they are polite without being overbearing. They can be stubborn with a likelihood to choose their own path, but they are receptive to obedience training so long as they aren’t dealt with harshly. Chesapeake Bay retrievers have a love for the water and have no qualms about having to break ice as they retrieve their quarry. They make superb late-season or harsh-weather pheasant dogs.

Did you know?

The state of Maryland in 1964 designated the Chesapeake Bay retriever as the official state dog, given the breed’s namesake is the state’s famous bay region.

Clumber Spaniel

The largest of the spaniels, stockily built to work slowly and power through thick cover in a thorough and relentless search for birds

Breed: Clumber Spaniel

Type: Flusher

The largest of the spaniels, stockily built to work slowly and power through thick cover in a thorough and relentless search for birds

Hunting Style

If you are looking for a slow-working flushing dog that is easy to keep up with and is not going to leave any cattail unturned or thicket un-snuffled during its search for pheasants or quail, then you have found your dog. Clumbers have an interesting plowing-cruising gate, quartering well and working cover thoroughly. For older hunters, or hunters who move slowly or find walking challenging, Clumbers are easy to keep up with, and their gait puts pheasants (used to fast-working dogs) off guard.

General Appearance

The Clumber spaniel exhibits a long, low body and a heavy head. Color is predominantly white, with lemon, orange or honey markings, usually around the head. Bassets or other hounds may be the Clumber’s past, and that’s no surprise, given the dogs’ droopy, mournful-looking face and long ears. Hound ancestry is also why the Clumber’s nose is so exceedingly good.

Size

A long and low-slung dog. Clumbers stand but 17 to 20 inches at the shoulders, yet can weigh anywhere from 55 to 70 pounds for females, and 70 to 85 pounds for males.

Disposition

Clumbers are gentle, laid-back, loving and loyal. They may be aloof to new people, but they just need to get you to know you; they’re never in much of a hurry. Despite their size, Clumbers are quite playful and like to cause a little mischief when they can. Queen Victoria once wrote of Clumbers, which Prince Albert owned and hunted with: “They are such dear, nice dogs.”

Did you know?

The Clumber spaniel is named for a large estate in England called Clumber Park, where the Duke of Newcastle bred the dogs and hunted them with local aristocracy.

Curly-Coated Retreiver

Built for water work but skilled in the uplands

Breed: Curly-Coated Retreiver

Type: Flusher

Built for water work but skilled in the uplands

Hunting Style

Curly-coated retrievers are among the most versatile and oldest of the retriever breeds. Records indicate curly-coats have been used for retrieving work in England since at least the early 1800s. These dogs are agile and quick, perform well on land and in water, but require plenty of exercise to stay in shape and stave off boredom. They naturally perform well in upland situations, staying within gun range and effectively flushing birds from cover..

General Appearance

Curly-coated retrievers are tall retrievers distinguishable by their tapered, wedge-shaped head and the short, thick coat of tight curls that makes them look like a Labrador retriever crossed with a poodle. Their coats, which are black to liver in color, provide them protection in the water, while also shedding thorns and other upland hazards. The hair on their faces and front of their legs is straight. They have a tall look about them, and can seem “leggy.” Their tails are left full.

Size

Males and females are about the same height (females 23 to 25 inches; males 25 to 27 inches) from the ground to shoulders. Their weight ranges between 60 and 80 pounds. These are hardy dogs.

Disposition

Curly-coated retrievers are affectionate and gentle animals, but are more independent than other retriever breeds. They make good companions and enjoy being part of the family – they’re playful and protective in such situations – but they’re often reserved with strangers or people they aren’t around frequently. They can be calm, but they are smart and require plenty of stimulation.

Did you know?

Curly-coated retrievers were created by crossing Old English water dogs, Irish water spaniels and small Newfoundlands. There are poodle genes in them as well.

English Cocker Spaniel

The original pocket rocket: the biggest-hearted, hardest hunting little dog out there

Breed: English Cocker Spaniel

Type: Flusher

The original pocket rocket: the biggest-hearted, hardest hunting little dog out there

Hunting Style

English cocker spaniels are adept at quartering across the field within gun range in front of their hunters, but they are also eager and fully willing to dive into the heaviest cover around if the reward is a flushed bird. Indeed, their stature is small but their heart and drive are big. These little spaniels have no qualms about entering thick, dense cover. Field-bred cockers are excited hunters – a blur of motion when they’re afield – that have the word “work” bred into their genes. They make superb all-around upland dogs, and their approach is effective on pheasants in particular.

General Appearance

English cocker spaniels are small-sized dogs with medium-length coats that may be flat, silky or wavy. Given their propensity for entering the thickest cover around, some hunters choose to trim their coats to cut down on the amount of debris they pick up afield. Their coat is often a solid color, including black, liver, red or a tan-colored roan. Other dogs have a combination of white with black, liver, lemon, orange or red ticking. For field lines, tails are sometimes docked to two-thirds of full length. English cocker spaniels also have alert, intelligent eyes and close-lying ears.

Size

Relatively small in stature, English cocker spaniels are between 15 and 18 inches in height. Males weigh between 25 and 34 pounds, females between 20 and 30.

Disposition

English cocker spaniels are very friendly and loving, and they make outstanding family dogs. Cockers are great in the field as well, cranking their energy level up multiple notches and displaying an exuberance that’s contagious. Unlike some other breeds, English cocker spaniels tend to avoid hyperactivity and are eager to please in any environment. They are the ultimate field machine / house potato.

Did you know?

English cocker spaniels were named after the bird species they were developed to hunt – the woodcock.

English Springer Spaniel

A good-sized, family-friendly flushing dog for pheasants, quail and other upland birds

Breed: English Springer Spaniel

Type: Flusher

A good-sized, family-friendly flushing dog for pheasants, quail and other upland birds

Hunting Style

Named for their propensity to flush – or “spring” – birds, English springer spaniels quarter well and bust into any cover they encounter. They are capable retrievers, too, whether it’s pheasants in the field, grouse in the woods, or ducks in smaller waters. English springer spaniels are animated hunters and at times their exuberance can make them range too far in front of the gun. Proper training and gentle reminding is a necessity. Springers plow cover like troopers, and make great all-season pheasant dogs.

General Appearance

Built to motor through heavy cover, English springer spaniels sport brush-resistant coats. Their undercoat is soft and dense, while the topcoat is made of flat or wavy hair of medium length. As with other Spaniels, some hunters trim the dog’s coat in order to cut down on post-hunt grooming. Springers’ general coloration is white with black, brown or liver patches and spots. Their ears are long and lush, while their eyes show friendliness and trust. In field lines, tails of English springer spaniels are docked a few inches.

Size

English springer spaniels are muscular dogs that are 19 to 20 inches from the ground to the highest point on their shoulders. They commonly weigh 40 to 50 pounds..

Disposition

English springer spaniels generally behave well around kids and other dogs, and do well in a family setting, where they are affectionate and friendly. They enjoy being busy and socializing, and don’t do particularly well when left alone. They are eager to please and have great stamina, which contributes to their success in the field, and their even-keeled nature makes them good around the home as well.

Did you know?

According to the American Kennel Club, English springers and cocker spaniels were once the same breed. From a litter, the smaller dogs were designated cockers (as woodcock hunters) and the larger were designated springers, for their high-energy hunting locomotion style.

Flat-Coated Retriever

One of the happiest hunting breeds out there, these hard-working retrievers make great triple-purpose dogs: upland bird flusher (and retriever), reliable waterfowling companion and fetcher, and exuberant family member

Breed: Flat-Coated Retriever

Type: Flusher

Hunting Style

Originating in the 1800's, the flat-coated retriever became very popular as a gamekeeper's dog in England. Flatcoats are versatile hunting retrievers that score high in trainability. In the uplands, flatcoats are flushing dogs. The breed works close and hunts smart. If there’s bird scent in the area, you can be confident your flatcoat is on something and let the fun begin! Like most retrieving breeds, the flatcoat will quarter in front of the hunter to flush upland birds within comfortable gun range. They are extremely good at finding and retrieving downed birds.

General Appearance

The flat-coated retriever is a large breed with a thick, medium-density coat that is solid black or liver in color. Although thick, the coat tends to be very smooth with feathering at the legs, tail and chest. Tails are left full. The nose is long (the better to smell with), the eyes full of expression, and the overall look regal.

Size

This is large-sized hunting dog. Height usually ranges from 22 to 25 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 55 and 75 pounds.

Disposition

Flat-Coated Retrievers are cheerful companions that are generally calm indoors and energetic outdoors. They are an intelligent breed – exuberant, loving and outgoing -- that is easily trained. Flatcoats do best without harsh correction. Their social natures make them great companions, and they tend to get along well with other animals. This breed does best living indoors with frequent opportunities to exercise and play outdoors.

Did you know?

The flatcoat comes out of the “Labrador” family, and many experts say the dog also has some Newfoundland in its background. The flat-coated retriever is known as the Peter Pan of the dog world: At times almost obnoxious in their perpetual cheery state, flatcoats will always bring positivity and pep into the field and your life.

Golden Retriever

A beautiful, versatile and people-loving retriever that is a pro in the uplands

Breed: Golden Retriever

Type: Flusher

A beautiful, versatile and people-loving retriever that is a pro in the uplands

Hunting Style

Golden retrievers are versatile retrievers that love to work and live to please. They are excellent at retrieving waterfowl in and around water, and fully capable of solid work in the field as well. They take to both styles of hunting with enthusiasm, and will quarter in front of hunters to flush birds. While their beautiful coat keeps them warm and dry even in cold conditions, it also makes them warm on hot days, so hunters who bring them afield must ensure they don’t overheat. In general, golden retrievers are tough and durable, and the way they perform in the field reflects that.

General Appearance

Golden retrievers are sturdy, muscular and large dogs with dense, double-layered coats that keep them dry and warm. Their coloration is generally golden, though some trend more toward cream while others are more distinctly red. They have a broad head with eyes that are exceedingly friendly, intelligent and piercing. Their tails are full and straight.

Size

Goldens’ height ranges from about 22 to 24 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders. Females weigh 55 to 65 pounds, while males weigh between 65 and 75 pounds. It is not uncommon for males, especially, to be even heavier than that.

Disposition

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in the world because they’re exceptionally friendly and perform well in a wide variety of situations (in addition to being family and hunting dogs, golden retrievers often are used as guide dogs, and as comfort dogs and in search-and-rescue operations). Their faces show a distinct smile when they’re happy – which is often – and whether they’re at home or in the field, they aim to please. They are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. Worth noting, however, is that goldens’ popularity as pets has resulted in some deviation from hunting roots; the search for a hunting companion should focus on clear field and hunting lines.

Did you know?

Golden retrievers almost always carry something in their mouths – or want to be carrying something, anyway. Their mouth is incredibly soft, and many can carry a raw egg without cracking its shell.

Labrador Retriever

Perhaps the most versatile hunting dog of all; warrior in the field, family pooch at home

Breed: Labrador Retriever

Type: Flusher

Perhaps the most versatile hunting dog of all; warrior in the field, family pooch at home

Hunting Style

The most popular dog breed in America – and among Pheasants Forever members -- Labrador retrievers are active and outgoing dogs that are as comfortable in a family setting as they are cruising the wide-open prairie in October or November, or crashing through cattail swamps in the dead of winter. Blessed with good agility and speed, Labrador retrievers also have stamina in abundance and a desire to retrieve for hours on end. They have a sturdy build and are plenty durable, able to perform well in a variety of upland- and water-based hunting scenarios. While hunting in the field, they quarter in front of the hunter and are wonderful flushers.

General Appearance

Labrador retrievers are medium to large dogs with a short, double-layered coat that’s dense and clings tight to their bodies. There are three colors of Labrador retrievers: black, chocolate and yellow. With kind, friendly eyes framed by wide heads, Labrador retrievers have athletic builds that are evident of their desire for activity. They have thick tails that taper to the end and are left full.

Size

Female Labrador retrievers’ height ranges from about 21 to 24 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, while males range from about 22 to 25 inches. Males range from 65 to 80 pounds, females from 55 to 70 pounds. Smaller British lines are out there, too.

Disposition

Labrador retrievers’ popularity among hunters is easy to understand. Labs are extremely versatile and highly social -- affectionate enough to be considered part of the family and enthusiastic enough to work hard and perform well in a variety of hunting-related tasks. They are the ultimate combo dog for the hunter who wants to pursue both waterfowl and upland birds. But plenty of Labs just go uplanding. They are highly intelligent and willing to be trained. Most Labs pound the upland fields with reckless abandon, then turn into big cuddle-lovers at home.

Did you know?

It doesn’t matter the color (or colors) of their parents: A single litter of Labrador retrievers can include individuals that are black, chocolate or yellow in color.

Nova Scotia Duck Trolling Retriever (Toller)

This intelligent and fascinating duck dog takes to the uplands well

Breed: Nova Scotia Duck Trolling Retriever (Toller)

Type: Flusher

This intelligent and fascinating duck dog takes to the uplands well

Hunting Style

Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers, also known as “tollers,” are tireless retrievers that are well-adapted to cold hunting conditions. They are equally as adept in the uplands as they are the water, though they were bred specifically to hunt by frolicking and splashing along the bank to lure – or toll – curious waterfowl. When the birds are in range, the dog heads back to the blind so hunters can make their shots. Tollers retrieve the ducks from the water. Tollers are compact dogs with a sturdy build, sufficiently agile to flush birds in the uplands and blessed with sufficient energy to hunt all day long.

General Appearance

Tollers are the smallest of the retrievers, a medium-sized dog with a medium coat that’s mostly straight. It’s double-layered with water-repelling properties that allows them to retrieve ducks even in harsh conditions. Their coat is various shades of red with lighter featherings and white markings on the tip of tail, feet, chest and blaze, and their almond-shaped eyes are alert and hint at their desire to always be active. Their tails are left full and have a slight curve in them.

Size

Male tollers generally stand between 18 and 21 inches from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders, while females are in the 17- to 20-inch range. Both genders range from about 35 to 50 pounds.

Disposition

Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers are eager to please and intelligent, but they can be destructive and disobedient in the absence of mental stimulation and the opportunity to burn off energy. Tollers are affectionate and good family dogs, though they tend to be reserved around strangers. However, they are inquisitive and playful, and given enough time they get along well with other animals and people outside their families.

Did you know?

One of the most unique aspects of Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers is their scream, which typically is a reaction to something they find exciting. You wouldn’t know they’re excited, though, because the scream is high-pitched, frantic and loud.

Poodle (Standard)

Poodles aren’t just for laps and limousines: meet the real thing hunting dog

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Type: Flusher

Poodles aren’t just for laps and limousines: meet the real thing hunting dog

Hunting Style

Standard poodles may not typically be classified in the sporting category , but don’t be fooled: They originated as water dogs and are fully capable of flushing birds on land and retrieving them in water. It’s true that many of today’s poodles aren’t hunting dogs, but the breed itself has many qualities that are attractive to hunters. Active and intelligent, poodles are rather easy to train and can make excellent hunting companions.

General Appearance

Poodles’ coats are heavy and dense, with hair that’s tightly curled or corded. They don’t shed, and poodles used for hunting generally have fur that’s cut to about an inch all over their bodies. That will keep them warm in all but the coldest of water, while also protecting them from hazards afield. Their coats can be a wide variety of colors, including red, apricot, black, brown, gray and white. Their tails are either full length or docked to half-length.

Size

Poodles come in a huge array of sizes, but standard poodles should be at least 15 inches – and preferably 22 to 26 inches – from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders. They generally weigh between 45 and 70 pounds.

Disposition

Standard poodles are exceptionally smart, proud animals. They are alert and eager to please, friendly, and excited to learn new things. They get along well with humans and other dogs alike, and tend to be protective of their owners and those they know well. While standard poodles do well inside the home, they are active, athletic dogs that need to burn energy and keep their minds sharp.

Did you know?

Some people associate poodles with circuses and shows. There’s a reason for that – they are among the most intelligent of all dog breeds, taking quickly to learning new things. They’re highly observant as well, like a child learning things even when humans don’t intend to be teaching a lesson.

Pointing dogs

Pointing dogs generally cruise a little or a lot out of shotgun range of the hunter. When a bird is found, the dog “locks up” and points it; the hunter walks in for the flush. Some hunters keep their pointer within shotgun range in case of errant flushes from spooky birds.

American Brittany

A fine little pointing and family dog from the northwest of France

Breed: American Brittany

Type: Flusher

A fine little pointing and family dog from the northwest of France

Hunting Style

The Brittany is a close-working pointing dog with natural hunting and retrieving ability. The Brittany originated in the Brittany region of northwestern France, and was depicted in paintings as early as the 17th century. While not large in stature, Brittanys have the speed and agility to cover a lot of ground. They are a tough and durable breed with skin and coat built to resist punctures and tears in thick cover.

General Appearance

The Brittany is a medium-sized breed with a coat that is generally dense and wavy in orange-and-white or liver-and-white patterns, often with some ticking. Tri-colors are also found as liver and white dogs with orange markings on eyebrows, muzzle, cheeks and under the tail. Other colors include orange roan and liver roan. Tails are often docked either completely or to a length of no more than approximately four inches.

Size

Height usually ranges from 17 to 21 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 30 and 45 pounds.

Disposition

Generally, the Brittany is a very active and alert dog with a good disposition. A very outgoing nature makes the Brittany an excellent upland hunting companion and also an ideal family dog. Brittanys make good house dogs provided they have sufficient exercise. They are eager to please and friendly, they generally learn quickly, and they are loyal and attached to their owners.

Did you know?

Although it was originally referred to as the Brittany Spaniel, this versatile breed's working characteristics are more similar to a pointer or setter, and in 1982 the "Spaniel" was officially dropped from the name. Now it’s just Brittany.

Bracco Italiano

One of the oldest pointing breeds, the Bracco Italiano is a classic gun dog that originated in Italy, and makes a great workmate in the field and friend at home

Breed: Bracco Italiano

Type: Flusher

One of the oldest pointing breeds, the Bracco Italiano is a classic gun dog that originated in Italy, and makes a great workmate in the field and friend at home

Hunting Style

Although this personality-filled creature may be a challenging dog to train for newer hunters and dog owners, the Bracco Italiano is an excellent worker with plenty of stamina and energy. Their alert and responsive temperament makes them great workers in the field, in addition to possessing natural pointing and retrieving skills. Owners of the Bracco admire their ability to learn something one hunting season, apply it the next hunting season, and get gradually better and better at hunting as they get older.

General Appearance

Simply put, these are some of the coolest looking bird dogs out there. At first look, the Bracco looks like a bloodhound that decided to have the coloration of a German shorthair. Their coats will either be white, white and chestnut, or white and orange, and there is plenty of skin like a bloodhound. The build is quite athletic.

Size

This is a good-sized to large-sized hunting dog. Braccos stand 21 to 27 inches tall, and weigh 55 to 90 pounds..

Disposition

Being at once alert, laidback and responsive, Bracco Italianos are also Intelligent, kind, and enthusiastic. With proper mental stimulation and exercise, the Bracco will make a great companion in the field and at home as well.

Did you know?

Even though the Bracco Italiano is recognized as one of the world’s oldest pointing breeds, it was only introduced to the United States in the 1990’s.

Braques D'Auvergne

The Braques d’Auvergne is a loving dog that works hard to please its master while hunting

Breed: Braques D'Auvergne

Type: Flusher

The Braques d’Auvergne is a loving dog that works hard to please its master while hunting

Hunting Style

The Braques d’Auvergne is a part of the large family of French pointing dogs. Eager to please like many of its cousins, it is a great gundog that is perfect in a family setting as well. These dogs are natural hunters, will check in often, and are extremely easy to train. It is notable that they are very comfortable getting to know other dogs.

General Appearance

With a sturdy, robust, and muscular build, Braques d’Auvergne pointers can and will work tirelessly. They are white and black, with ticked markings or roan markings, and a tail of 6 to 8 inches in length. They have a distinct hound appearance.

Size

Standing at 21 to 24.5 inches tall, the Braque d’Auvergne weighs 48 to 62 pounds, which puts it in the “medium sized” class of bird dog.

Disposition

Gentle and eager to please, The Braques d’Auvergne makes a great companion in the field for its natural instincts and trainability, and a great companion at home for its kindness and affection.

Did you know?

Although they are not a vulnerable breed, the Braques d’Auvergne is recognized as a rare breed.

Braques du Bourbonnais

A versatile hunting dog from the heart of France, these pups are a lot of dog in a small package

Breed: Braques du Bourbonnais

Type: Flusher

A versatile hunting dog from the heart of France, these pups are a lot of dog in a small package

Hunting Style

“Versatile” is almost an understatement with this continental breed: The Braques du Bourbonnais can catch a scent, track, point, swim and retrieve. The Braques is skilled at working at medium distances and a smooth pace, and comes back often to check in. They are beautiful dogs, solidly built.

General Appearance

Often born with either no tail or a very short tail, the Braques Du Bourbonnais is a medium-sized dog with a white coat ticked in either fawn, liver or chestnut. They have floppy ears and a sturdy body, paired with an intelligent look.

Size

Braques du Bourbonnais dogs stand 20 to 22.5 inches tall and weigh 35 to 50 pounds. It’s a nice range whether you are looking for a smaller or a little larger dog.

Disposition

Braques du Bourbonnais are eager to please, enthusiastic, and affectionate. They’re truly great dogs all around – serious in the field and affectionate family pets.

Did you know?

Developed in 15th century France, the Braques du Bourbonnais almost went extinct in the late 1960s. Thanks to careful breeding in their home province of Bourbonnais and beyond, the Braques was saved, and introduced to the United States in 1988.

Braques Francais

The Braque Francais, an ancient breed from France, is considered the common ancestor to all contemporary shorthaired pointing dogs

Breed: Braques Francais

Type: Flusher

The Braque Francais, an ancient breed from France, is considered the common ancestor to all contemporary shorthaired pointing dogs

Hunting Style

There are two types of Braque Francais: The Pyrenean and the Gascogne types. The Pyrenean was originally bred to hunt the rugged Pyrenees Mountains on the border of France and Spain, and is smaller than the Gascogne type. Braque Francais are especially adept at adjusting their hunting style and cruising distance at hand and the wishes of their masters. They are extremely versatile, with excellent noses and staunch points. Braques are thought to be the most natural retrievers of all the pointing breeds. As a bonus, most Braques love water and eagerly jump in to fetch an upland bird or duck.

General Appearance

Braques Francais feature short, straight, easy-care hair on relatively tight skin with little or no dewlap on the neck. Acceptable color combinations are brown, brown and white, heavily spotted brown and white, and mottled. Subjective terms applied to the Braque include noble, well-muscled and robust. The tail is docked, but some tails are naturally short at birth.

Size

Pyrenean Braque Francais stand 18.5 to 23 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 35 to 55 pounds. Gascogne-strain Braques Francais stand 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 45 to 80 pounds.

Disposition

Braques are gentle and sociable in the home. The dogs find it easy to turn off their hard-charging hunting instincts and switch into house pets that can lounge and loll around with the best of lapdogs.

Did you know?

Jacques Espee de Selincourt, a huntsman for the French royalty, wrote of the Braque in his 1683 book “La Parfait Chasseur” (The Perfect Hunter): “He is a quite tall dog, very strong, with a robust chest, big head, long ears, good-sized nose, loose lips, and a white coat with brown spots.”

Cesky Fousek

A high-powered and extremely versatile hunting dog that loves being part of the family

Breed: Cesky Fousek

Type: Flusher

A high-powered and extremely versatile hunting dog that loves being part of the family

Hunting Style

The Germans made their own efficient wire-haired dog. Why not the Czechs? Meet the Cesky Fousek, a fine and very versatile hunting dog originating in Czechoslovakia, in particular Bohemia. Due in large part to the devastating effect the First World War on Eastern Europe, the Cesky Fousek was nearly extinct by 1918. Efforts to revive the breed were stalled by World War II, and once again the numbers of Cesky Fousek dwindled. Careful breeding, and apparently some early crossbreeding with German shorthairs and wirehairs during the late 1940s, helped to develop the modern Cesky Fousek.

General Appearance

The Cesky Fousek is a high-powered, intelligent and versatile dog ready to handle the toughest conditions, yet is a calm, friendly companion in the home. This brown-and-white wirehaired dog features a beard and mustache typical of this family of breeds. He is sometimes called the Bohemian Pointer.

Size

The Cesky Fousek stands anywhere from 23 to 26 inches long and weighs from 49 to 75 pounds.

Disposition

The Cesky Fousek turns off its hard-core hunting drive to be a calm, friendly companion in the home. He is also disposed to water work, and makes a good dual-purpose upland and duck dog.

Did you know?

“Cesky” (pronounced chess-kee) and “Fousek” (pronounced foe-sek) stands for “Czechoslovakian Rough-hair” in Czech.

Deutsch-Drahthaar

A happy, high-energy and whiskered bird dog with extremely versatile hunting skills and excellent family-dog traits

Breed: Deutsch-Drahthaar

Type: Flusher

A happy, high-energy and whiskered bird dog with extremely versatile hunting skills and excellent family-dog traits

Hunting Style

The Deutsch-Drahthaar was developed in Germany, bred as a versatile hunting dog for all aspects of field hunting: field, forest and water. The breed adheres to a strict system of ability testing and breeding controls set by the VDD (Verein Deutsch-Drahthaar). Deutsch-Drahthaars are known for their endurance and passion to hunt, as well as the ability to focus on tasks at hand. They will point and retrieve upland birds in addition to tracking furred game. Their double coat, ability to swim and strong drive to retrieve combine to make them well suited to waterfowl hunting as well.

General Appearance

A Deutsch-Drahthaar’s fur is wiry with a thick undercoat that is water-repellent. The coat is easy to care for and requires little to no maintenance. The extended eyebrows, whiskers and beard, intended to protect their face and eyes in the field, give the breed it’s distinct, characteristic appearance. Colors range from brown/white or black/white ticked, usually with some solid patches, to solid brown. Tails are generally docked to roughly forty percent of full length.

Size

Height for males varies from 24 to 26.7 inches from the ground to the shoulders, with weight usually ranging between 55 and 85 pounds. Height for females varies from 22.4 to 25.2 inches from the ground to the shoulders, with weight usually ranging between 50 and 65 pounds.

Disposition

With its intelligence and calm manner, the Deutsch-Drahthaar is a great hunting breed, but they are also well suited in the home as a family dog. Drahts are typically gentle and friendly with children and other dogs, but are known to be protective of their family and home. Because of their intense drive to hunt, Deutsch-Drahthaars must be exercised regularly, and are not recommended for non-hunting families.

Did you know?

Every Deutsch-Drahthaar (The English translation of Deutsch-Drahthaar is German Wirehair) has a 5- or 6-digit ZuchtBuch, or registration number, tattooed on their right ear.

Deutsch-Kurzhaar

An extremely versatile bird dog with a strong desire to both hunt and please its master

Breed: Deutsch-Kurzhaar

Type: Flusher

An extremely versatile bird dog with a strong desire to both hunt and please its master

Hunting Style

The Deutsch-Kurzhaar was developed in Germany, bred as a versatile hunting dog for all aspects of hunting: field, forest and water. The breed adheres to a strict system of ability testing and breeding controls set by the Deutsch Kurzhaar Verband (DKV) under the motto: noble, versatile, reliable, easy to groom. The Deutsch-Kurzhaar breed is known for its incredible endurance in the field, as well as the ability to focus and quickly adapt as needed in pursuit of game. They will point upland birds and track furred game, while displaying a strong desire to retrieve on land and in water.

General Appearance

The Deutsch-Kurzhaar is medium-large hunting breed that is athletic in appearance, with a deep chest, short angled top-line and muscular build. The short, thick hair is easy to groom with coat colors consisting of combinations of brown, black and white, including: solid brown; solid black; and varying roan and ticked combinations such as brown-ticked or black-ticked. The coat dries quickly and feels slightly coarse. The Deutsch-Kurzhaar’s head is well shaped with robust forehead and a strong snout.

Size

Height for males varies from 24.4 to 25.9 inches from the ground to the shoulders, with weight usually ranging between 65 and 75 pounds. Height for females varies from 22.8 to 24.8 inches from the ground to the shoulders, with weight usually ranging between 58 and 68 pounds.

Disposition

The Deutsch-Kurzhaar has a calm, animated temperament, and possesses excellent speed and natural hunting instincts. Their intelligence, strong desire and endurance enable them to successfully perform any hunting task required. They are very loyal breed, with a strong, innate desire to please their handler, making them an excellent family and hunting companions provided they are kept active. Because of their intense drive to hunt, Deutsch-Kurzhaars must be exercised regularly, and are not recommended for non-hunting families.

Did you know?

The Deutsch-Kurzhaar breed (The English translation of Deutsch-Kurzhaar is German Shorthair) was likely established in Germany sometime between the 18th and 19th century.

English Setter

An elegant and graceful pointing dog that's equally adept in the uplands and the home

Breed: English Setter

Type: Flusher

An elegant and graceful pointing dog that's equally adept in the uplands and the home

Hunting Style

The English Setter (aka Setter) is a quick and efficient worker with an excellent nose and ground speed that was bred specifically for upland bird hunting. They are graceful hunters that combine agility with stamina to cover a lot of ground. They are energetic dogs from a long, rich history of finding and pointing upland birds.

General Appearance

The English Setter is a large breed with a coat that is generally long with feathering at the ears, tail and underside. Base color is usually white with secondary colors including orange belton (speckling), blue (black) belton, liver belton and yellow belton. Tri-color belton are also found as blue belton dogs with tan markings on muzzle, eyes and legs. Tails are generally left full. English Setters generally produce fewer Dual Champions since the more effective field sizes, colors and coat characteristics tend to vary from desired show characteristics.

Size

Height usually ranges from 23 to 27 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 45 and 75 pounds.

Disposition

They are a gentle and affectionate breed with a very mild disposition that tend to train better with positive reinforcement. They do well in a home environment as they tend to mellow indoors and take on a friendly "couch potato" mentality provided they are kept active when outdoors.

Did you know?

The English setter's name is derived from the origins of the breed, when the setter was developed to lay down, or "set" when it scented game.

Epagneul Breton (French Brittany)

Also known as the French Brittany, this is the original Brittany and the smallest of the pointing breeds; built for living in a peasant’s tiny cottage and poaching the local Lord’s game

Breed: Epagneul Breton (French Brittany)

Type: Flusher

Also known as the French Brittany, this is the original Brittany and the smallest of the pointing breeds; built for living in a peasant’s tiny cottage and poaching the local Lord’s game

Hunting Style

Epagneul Breton (pronounced Ep-an-yul Bray-ton) stands for Spaniel of Brittany in French. These dogs originated in olden times in the center of the province as close-working pointing dogs for local woodcock, partridge, pheasants and hares. Despite their small size, Epagneul Bretons have big hunting hearts and will go all day. They live to hunt and tend to work close, which makes them good pheasant, quail and ruffed grouse dogs, but Bretons know how to range out more in the big wide open for prairie grouse. Many Bretons are natural and willing retrievers.

General Appearance

The body is compact – one might even say square or “cobby” – and most Bretons are powerfully built. The coat is wavy, with a variety of color variations utilizing orange, black, liver and white. Some dogs are tricolor. It is notable that Bretons typically exhibit little pure white, tending to instead be roan or heavily ticked where white would otherwise be. The tail is docked.

Size

Epagneul Bretons come in small packages, with a height of only 16 to 19 inches at the shoulders and weights between 25 and 32 pounds for females, 27 to 35 pounds for males. This makes them ideal house companions.

Disposition

Epagneul Bretons are sweet and friendly dogs: ultimate couch potatoes at home but hunting fiends in the field. Their need for love and their masters’ approval keeps them close in the house, and checking in often in the field. They can be sneaky and mischievous little fellows and gals though.

Did you know?

Epagneul Bretons served as some of the “seed” for American Brittanys, which were developed to be longer legged and bigger running than Bretons, which were “designed” for hunting close in front of a master afoot.

German Shorthaired Pointer

This versatile do-everything dog is one of the most popular hunting breeds

Breed: German Shorthaired Pointer

Type: Flusher

This versatile do-everything dog is one of the most popular hunting breeds

Hunting Style

The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) should range and hunt within a comfortable distance from the hunter. They work well with other dogs in the field and should honor instinctively. They are a versatile and popular hunting choice due to their ability to hunt enthusiastically on both land and water.

General Appearance

The GSP is a large breed with a coat that is generally very short, sleek and dense. Color should be liver, liver and white or black and white, solid, patched and ticked or roan. They are generally lean but very well muscled. Tails are generally docked to roughly forty percent of full length.

Size

Height usually ranges from 21 to 25 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 45 and 70 pounds.

Disposition

The German Shorthaired Pointer is very energetic, smart and eager to please. They are very loyal and make excellent family and hunting companions provided they are kept active. They exhibit excellent speed and natural hunting instincts.

Did you know?

The GSP consistently ranks as the top pointing dog in the annual AKC rankings of most popular dog breeds.

German Wirehaired Pointer

A versatile, handsome and loyal bearded dog with dual skills for the uplands and the water

Breed: German Wirehaired Pointer

Type: Flusher

A versatile, handsome and loyal bearded dog with dual skills for the uplands and the water

Hunting Style

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an all-around gun dog that is able to hunt many types of game on almost any terrain. As a versatile hunter that will track, point and retrieve on both land and water, they are a top pick for hunters wanting a pointing dog that can double as a skilled duck retriever. They are sturdy dogs that are well muscled and determined hunters, these dogs are also known to be very cooperative with their handler.

General Appearance

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a medium-sized hunting dog with a wiry, double coat that is both weather-resistant and water-repellent. The breed is also noted for their distinctive beard, whiskers and eyebrows—which protect their face and eyes in the field. Coat color will be liver and white or black and white, ticked or roan (fine mixture of colored and white hair), although an occasional solid liver color is possible. Tails are generally docked to roughly forty percent of full length.

Size

A medium- to large-sized hunting dog, height usually ranges from 22 to 26 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 55 and 70 pounds.

Disposition

The German Wirehaired Pointer breed is very affectionate and cooperative, making them loyal hunting companions and good family dogs. They can be somewhat aloof to strangers so it is recommended they be socialized at an early age. Though known as a high-drive breed, German Wirehaired Pointers aren’t known to be overly hyper; but similar to other hunting breeds, they must be thoroughly and consistently exercised to avoid restlessness and mischief around the house.

Did you know?

With their webbed feet and water-resistant coats, German Wirehaired Pointers are excellent swimmers.

Gordon Setter

Developed in Scotland, but with a long history in America

Breed: Gordon Setter

Type: Flusher

Developed in Scotland, but with a long history in America

Hunting Style

The Gordon Setter should range and hunt independently some distance from the hunter. They are not generally fast but are patient and have very good stamina. They exhibit natural abilities to point and retrieve and are well suited to hunt in adverse weather conditions.

General Appearance

The Gordon Setter is a large breed with a coat that is generally glossy, soft, wavy and black and tan in color. It differs from other Setters in its more robust stature, and it is the only black and tan Setter. Tails are well feathered and are left full.

Size

Height usually ranges from 23 to 27 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 50 and 80 pounds.

Disposition

Gordon Setters are energetic working dogs that tend to be calm household companions when properly exercised. They are somewhat slow to mature and will exhibit puppy characteristics beyond three years of age. They are generally good with children and other pets.

Did you know?

The first Gordon setters to arrive in America were brought here in 1842, when the breed was still known as the "Gordon Castle Setter" after Alexander Gordon, the Fourth Duke of Gordon, who was instrumental in the breed’s development. The name was officially changed to Gordon setter in 1892.

Irish Red & White Setter

An Irish import with a keen nose and excellent stamina

Breed: Irish Red & White Setter

Type: Flusher

An Irish import with a keen nose and excellent stamina

Hunting Style

The Irish Red & White Setter is a cousin to the Irish Setter. The Red & White is much more commonly used as a gundog than its cousin and has been revived for this use in recent years. They are known for a keen nose and can hunt a wide variety of terrain in any climate. The Irish Red & White Setter has the stamina and intensity to hunt all day, with the natural ability to adjust to different terrain conditions.

General Appearance

The Irish Red & White Setter is a large breed with a coat that is long and silky. Base color is mostly white with deep red patches and occasional flecking. Tails are left full. Field lines generally run smaller and leaner with somewhat shorter coats. Compared to its more popular cousin the Irish (Red) Setter, the Red & White Setter is heavier in body with a broader head.

Size

Height usually ranges from 22 to 26 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 50 and 75 pounds.

Disposition

Red & Whites are very loyal and do well with children and other animals. They do best in an active household with plenty of opportunity to romp and play. Though not considered an extremely quick learner, the Red & White is a very swift hunter and makes a very good finished hunting companion.

Did you know?

The Irish Red & White setter has been a distinct breed since at least 1775. While popular during the1800s, it was almost extinct by 1900. It was then revived during the 1920s by a small group of dedicated breeders.

Large Munsterlander

A gentle and cooperative versatile hunter with an easy-going, trainable disposition

Breed: Large Munsterlander

Type: Flusher

A gentle and cooperative versatile hunter with an easy-going, trainable disposition

Hunting Style

The Large Munsterlander is a versatile hunter and a reliable companion both in the field and at home. They are generally good at adapting their search pattern to accommodate variations in cover, and they have a natural inclination for retrieving. Most will back other dogs with little training.

General Appearance

The Large Munsterlander was developed in Munster, Germany, from a black-and-white color variation of the German longhaired pointer. It is a larger dog, with a soft, medium length coat that is highly variable and includes ticked or roan patterns. Tails are generally left full.

Size

Height usually ranges from 23 to 26 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 51 and 71 pounds.

Disposition

The Large Munsterlander is typically a gentle, cooperative, and intelligent breed, and is a reliable companion both in the field and at home.

Did you know?

The Large Munsterlander was recognized as a distinct breed in 1919.

Llewellin Setter

A strain of the English setter beloved by many

Breed: Llewellin Setter

Type: Flusher

A strain of the English setter beloved by many

Hunting Style

The Llewellin Setter is an unrecognized (by the AKC) strain of English Setters with very similar hunting characteristics. While not a separate breed, the Llewellin Setter is a pure and distinct bloodline of the English Setter breed that was bred for superior performance in the field.

General Appearance

Build, coat length and color are generally not distinguishable from a standard English Setter.

Size

Height usually ranges from 23 to 27 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 45 and 75 pounds.

Disposition

They are a gentle and affectionate breed with the same gentle, inquisitive disposition appreciated in all English Setters. They do better in a home environment when they are kept active and allowed to spend time running outdoors.

Did you know?

All Llewellins are currently registered via the Field Dog Stud Book separately from English setters. Although some do breed English setters to Llewellins, the litter must be registered as English Setter with the FDSB.

Pointer (English Pointer)

A hard-charging and beautiful upland specialist

Breed: Pointer (English Pointer)

Type: Flusher

A hard-charging and beautiful upland specialist

Hunting Style

The pointer is a very hard driving hunter known to be a tireless worker with great work ethics. They are independent and enthusiastic hunters with great range, and they work well in the field with other dogs. They generally exhibit natural hunting instincts at a very young age and have the abilities to cover larger areas of ground. Pointers are generally bred for upland hunting in warmer climates with a need to cover larger areas.

General Appearance

The pointer (formerly known as the English pointer but now just pointer) is a large breed with a coat that is generally very short and smooth. Color is primarily white with liver, orange, black or lemon patches or speckles. They are generally lean but very well-muscled. Tails are rarely docked and provide distinction when on point.

Size

Height usually ranges from 21 to 24 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 45 and 75 pounds. Field lines tend to run larger than show lines.

Disposition

They are very loyal and tend to make excellent companions but must be kept active. While loyal and affectionate, field bred lines may exhibit restless traits that make them less than ideal as indoor pets unless exercised extensively.

Did you know?

The pointer is one of the oldest hunting breeds, first appearing in England around 1650.

Picardy Spaniel

A noble and ancient French breed, extremely handsome and almost setter-like in body form, hard-charging in the field and docile at home

Breed: Picardy Spaniel

Type: Flusher

A noble and ancient French breed, extremely handsome and almost setter-like in body form, hard-charging in the field and docile at home

Hunting Style

The Picardy spaniel is one of the oldest continental spaniel breeds, and was tremendously popular in France, its country of origin, before and after the French Revolution. Picardys were originally developed for hunting in heavily wooded areas and swamps, excelling in hunting marshes, and thus make a particularly good choice as a pheasant dog. Picardys also do double duty as waterfowl dogs.

General Appearance

The Picardy’s coat is highly weather resistant, enabling it to hunt in both heavy cover and retrieve from water under adverse conditions … once again, extremely good features for a pheasant dog. The breed is squarely built muscular, with a long muzzle and long ears that hang fairly low. Coat color varies from chocolate, chestnut brown and white with sandy colored markings on the head and white or grey spots on the legs.

Size

Pircady spaniels range from 22 to 24 inches tall, and weigh from 44 to 55 pounds.

Disposition

Picardy spaniels are known for their even temperament and sociability in the home while being bold hunters with a strong desire to work.

Did you know?

Because of their good nature, Picardy spaniels were the only dogs allowed in the salons of Revolutionary France: cultural hubs of discussion, good manners and sociability.

Pudelpointer

Part poodle and part pointer, a fine combination: natural at pointing, retrieving and loving a family

Breed: Pudelpointer

Type: Flusher

Part poodle and part pointer, a fine combination: natural at pointing, retrieving and loving a family

Hunting Style

Pudelpointers are calm, versatile hunting dogs with natural pointing and retrieving instincts. Happy to retrieve on land or in water, pudelpointers don’t exhibit game or gun shyness. Pudelpointers are a cross of pudels (poodles) and pointers, with a good nose, excellent endurance and a strong desire to hunt. Of note is their focus in the field, which benefits them with whatever species they’re pursuing.

General Appearance

Pudelpointers are large dogs with dense, wiry coats that prevent them from getting soaked, and that don’t shed much around the house. Their coats are usually rather coarse to the touch. Pudelpointers have expressive faces. Their tails are generally docked at two-thirds of the original length. In general, they are liver or chestnut in color, but some individuals are solid black.

Size

Male pudelpointers are 22 to 27 inches tall from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders, while females are 20 to 26 inches in height. The weight range for both males and females is about 45 to 65 pounds.

Disposition

Pudelpointers are affectionate dogs that are very loyal to their owners. They do well in the home, are relatively easy to train, and have a strong desire to hunt. They also are described as calm with a good amount of self-control. They are not super-popular in the United States, though that is changing as more people learn about them or see them perform in the field.

Did you know?

Pudelpointers were developed in Germany in the 1880s. One of the founders of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association, Sigbot “Bodo” Winterhelt, brought them to the United States.

Red Setter (Irish Setter)

A hard-charging and beautiful upland specialist

Breed: Red Setter (Irish Setter)

Type: Flusher

A hard-charging and beautiful upland specialist

Hunting Style

The Red Setter is an upland bird dog with a high prey drive, work ethic and stamina. While registered as Irish Setters, they are referred to as Red Setters to acknowledge their distinct differences. Red Setters are a product of an extensive restoration initiated in the 1950s. They have a racy ground pattern, can cover extensive range, and are known for their high intelligence. They are at home in pheasant fields, grouse woods, and on the prairies, and tend to break out easily and at a young age. They are an excellent choice for the hunter who has a variety of upland hunting destinations. Most specimens are natural backers and retrievers.

General Appearance

Red Setters are smaller than the traditional Irish setter. They tend to have less feathering, and will often have white on the chest, feet, face, and occasionally tail. Most lines of Red Setters point with extreme style, with the high tail and high head typical of American bred pointing breeds.

Size

Red Setters are typically in the range of 40 to 50 pounds, with females usually slightly smaller than the males.

Disposition

Red Setters are very "people" oriented and tend to do much better when co-existing as companion dogs with their hunting family. They do well as house companions, provided they are provided plenty of exercise. They tend to become very loyal and attached to their human companions, and make excellent house dogs as well as hunters.

Did you know?

Today's modern red setter is the result of an infusion of English setter blood in the 1950 by a small group of red setter enthusiasts who wanted to restore the Irish red setter as a hunting dog.

Small Munsterlander

A versatile hunter with an easily trainable disposition

Breed: Small Munsterlander

Type: Flusher

A versatile hunter with an easily trainable disposition

Hunting Style

The Small Munsterlander is a very versatile hunter that will flush, point and retrieve on land and water. Their numbers are small in the United States but they are much sought after by hunters that perceive them to be one of the most versatile and easily trained gundog breeds.

General Appearance

The Small Munsterlander is of medium size with a soft, medium length coat that provides protection during the hunt but may require grooming after. Color is generally large patches of brown or black on a ticked or solid white background. Tails are generally left full.

Size

Height usually ranges from 18 to 22 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 35 and 55 pounds.

Disposition

The Small Munsterlander is a very quick study in training that generally performs best for a patient trainer with a very consistent approach. They can be strong willed but are excellent companions and easily make the transition from house pet to driven field hunter. Small Munsterlanders usually get along well with other pets provided they are given the freedom to play.

Did you know?

Although they share a very similar name and originated in the same area of Germany, the Small and Large Munsterlanders are not closely related.

Spinone Italiano (Italian Spinone)

A cool-looking, close-working pointing dog with a laid-back approach to life

Breed: Spinone Italiano (Italian Spinone)

Type: Flusher

A cool-looking, close-working pointing dog with a laid-back approach to life

Hunting Style

The Italian Spinone (aka Spinone Italiano) is a large, rugged gun dog with a thick, wiry coat that is well suited for protection in dense upland grasses or cold water. They are sturdy and determined hunters with a close-working, deliberate style. That makes Spinones excellent pheasant and ruffed grouse dogs. While not fast or flashy, the breed will naturally point and retrieve, and is gaining popularity due to its wonderfully unique appearance and extreme reliability in the field. The Spinone is a calm dog, typically hunting at a more relaxed pace than many pointing breeds.

General Appearance

The Spinone is a large breed with a very distinctive appearance. Color should be solid white, white and orange, orange roan with or without orange markings, white with brown markings, or brown roan with or without brown markings. Most color combinations are ticked or roan although an occasional solid liver color is possible. Tails are generally docked to roughly fifty percent of full length. The Spinone Italiano is an ancient breed of dog, possibly dating back to 500 B.C. Greek traders are thought to have brought rough-coated dogs to Italy, and those dogs crossed with breeds there to create what we now know as the Spinone Italiano.

Size

This a large and rugged bird dog. Height usually ranges from 23 to 28 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 64 and 86 pounds.

Disposition

The Spinone is extremely mild mannered and makes an excellent companion. They are intelligent and easily trained although they can be stubborn and may need a firm training hand. Spinones are very calm indoors and transition easily from house to hunt. The Spinone gets along wonderfully with children and other pets.

Did you know?

The Spinone may have been named was named for the Italian Spino bush, a thorny plant providing cover to game and which could be penetrated only by dogs with thick, wiry coats. The ne (pronounced nay) probably comes from the Italian word for dog, cane.

Vizsla

An ancient and versatile breed from Hungary, the Vizsla offers a staunch and beautiful point, a natural desire to retrieve, and deep loyalty to its owner and hunting partner

Breed: Vizsla

Type: Flusher

An ancient and versatile breed from Hungary, the Vizsla offers a staunch and beautiful point, a natural desire to retrieve, and deep loyalty to its owner and hunting partner

Hunting Style

Vizslas are very energetic working dogs that are robust but rather lightly built. They exhibit natural abilities to point and retrieve, and show a genuine love of water. They do not have an undercoat, however, and are not particularly well suited for very low temperatures. Consider this your teal dog if you want to do some water work. The Vizsla makes an ideal early- to mid-season upland bird dog. That said, these hardcore hunters will give you everything they’ve got for as long as they can in late-season conditions too.

General Appearance

The Vizsla’s coat is generally short and smooth in a golden rust color, although it can tend toward a deeper red. Tails are generally docked to a length of roughly two-thirds of the natural length. Vizslas are generally lean but quite well muscled.

Size

This is a medium-sized bird dog. Vizslas ranges from 21 to 25 inches tall from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds.

Disposition

Vizslas tend to be very bright and social dogs that thrive on attention and affection. They are known as one-owner dogs because of their loyalty. They take training well but must be handled carefully, as they generally exhibit sensitive personalities. They thrive indoors with the family, provided they are sufficiently exercised.

Did you know?

Originally bred in Hungary, Vizslas would flush birds and drive small game into nets. Ancestors of the Vizsla were used by Hungarian aristocracy as early as the mid-14th century and somehow, thanks to their wonderful nature and excellent hunting abilities, survived the Turkish occupation (1526–1696), the Hungarian Revolution (1848), and World War II.

Weimaraner

Meet the Grey Ghost, so named for its handsome coloration and haunting eyes

Breed: Weimaraner

Type: Flusher

Meet the Grey Ghost, so named for its handsome coloration and haunting eyes

Hunting Style

The Weimaraner (Vee-ma-rah-ner) is a fine all-purpose gun dog. Their versatility is legendary, and Weims adapt well to varied terrain, game and conditions. Originally bred to hunt boar, bear and deer, the Weimaraner has now become an upland specialist. Prey drive is strong and instinctive, so training should begin at a young age to shape these fine dogs’ general hunting instincts: Just getting a Weimaraner in the field is a good start, because they are so natural at their hunting skills of pointing and retrieving.

General Appearance

The Weimaraner’s distinctive coat is generally short and smooth, in a mouse-gray or silver-grey color. Eye color varies, but the eyes are invariably handsome. Tails are generally docked early to no more than one-third of the natural length.

Size

This is a large bird dog. Height usually ranges from 23 to 27 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders and weight usually falls between 55 and 80 pounds.

Disposition

A fast and powerful breed, Weimaraners are very active and are known for their stamina, so they must be kept active and exercised often. They tend to be less social toward strangers and can be protective. They can also be territorial and should be socialized early. That said, they are unerringly loyal and devoted to their handler, and are typically excellent family dogs.

Did you know?

The Weimaraner originated in the Weimar region of Germany in the early 19th Century, and like many continental versatile dogs, was originally bred as a hunting dog for European royalty, who typically needed efficient dogs that could do most of the work.

Wirehaired Vizsla

What could be better than a Vizsla “armored up” like a wirehair for brushy, thorny, cold and wet conditions?

Breed: Wirehaired Vizsla

Type: Flusher

What could be better than a Vizsla “armored up” like a wirehair for brushy, thorny, cold and wet conditions?

Hunting Style

Vizslas are wonderful and versatile bird dogs, but their short, relatively thin coat lacking underfur can limit the dogs’ effectiveness under harsh conditions. Enter the wirehaired Vizsla! The wirehaired Vizsla was bred in Hungary in the 1930s from Vizslas, with the intent of producing a dog that points and retrieves as well as a standard Vizsla, but can work well in harsher conditions and colder weather. German wirehaired pointers, pudelpointers, bloodhounds and setters all contributed to breed. The wirehaired Vizsla is best known for its staunch pointing skills, natural retrieving skills, and trainability. This a versatile dog that can also hunt waterfowl.

General Appearance

A strong robust body gives the wirehaired Vizsla the ability to work hard for hours. They feature a rust, golden, reddish or sandy colored coat. The coat is both dense and wiry. The shaggy beard and eyebrows are endearing indeed.

Size

This is a medium-sized hunting dog, 21 to 25 inches tall at the shoulders and weighing 40 to 65 pounds. The build is stockier and studier than that of a standard Vizsla.

Disposition

Socialize a wirehaired Vizsla early on and you will have a loyal companion for life. They are affectionate family dogs. They do need a lot of exercise.

Did you know?

The tail of wirehaired Vizsla is generally docked to ¾ its natural length. There are under 500 wirehaired Vizslas in the U.S., and only 2,500 to 3,000 worldwide.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

An extremely versatile dog equally adept at waterfowl and upland birds

Breed: Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Type: Flusher

An extremely versatile dog equally adept at waterfowl and upland birds

Hunting Style

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an all-around gun dog that is able to hunt many types of game from rabbits to quail. It is a deliberate hunter that will track, point, and retrieve on land and water and stay within easy range of the hunter. Their thick, heavy coat is well suited to hunting in very cold temperatures and they tend to prefer cooler hunting climates.

General Appearance

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a medium sized breed with a thick, wiry coat that is very distinctive. Color should be steel gray with brown, orange, white or, occasionally, black markings. Tails are generally docked to roughly forty percent of full length.

Size

Height usually ranges from 20 to 24 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders, and weight usually ranges between 40 and 60 pounds.

Disposition

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is affectionate and loyal to the immediate family but can be standoffish with strangers. They make very good watchdogs. They must be socialized early and kept very active in a home setting to avoid restless behavior. Their coat will shed very little but must be stripped to encourage new hair growth.