Page 221 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

GUNDOG S 221

GUNDOGS

Before the advent of firearms, hunters used dogs to help
them locate and chase game. With the introduction of guns,
a different type of dog was required. Gundogs were developed
to carry out specific tasks and to work more closely with the
hunters. The breeds fall into several categories based on
the type of work they were bred to perform. The Lagotto Romagnolo is bred
for retrieving from water

The dogs in the gundog group, which Setters also direct attention to game some breeds of the spaniel division,
hunt by scent, are classified broadly in by freezing. Typically used to hunt these gundogs often have water-
three main divisions: the pointers and quail, pheasant, and grouse, these dogs resistant coats. They are renowned for
setters, which locate prey; the spaniels, crouch, or “set,” when they pick up a their “soft” mouths and quickly learn
which flush game out of cover; and the scent. Originally, setters were trained to carry game without damaging it.
retrievers, which collect fallen prey and to work with hunters who caught
bring it back to the hunter. Breeds that game with nets while their dogs VERSATILE VIZSLA
combine these functions are known prevented the prey from making an The Vizsla is one of various gundog breeds
as HPR (hunt/point/retrieve) dogs and escape on the ground. that are skilled at multitasking and combine
several functions.
include the Weimaraner, German Spaniels drive out, or flush, game
Shorthaired Pointer, and the Vizsla. birds, forcing them to take wing into
Pointers have been used as hunting the line of the guns. They watch where
dogs since the 17th century. They have a bird falls and are usually sent to
the extraordinary ability to indicate retrieve it. This division includes
the location of prey by “pointing”— small, silky-coated, long-eared dogs,
freezing into position with nose, body, such as the Springer Spaniel and
and tail aligned. A pointer remains Cocker Spaniel, used for finding
motionless until the hunter either game on land, and less familiar
flushes out the game or instructs breeds, such as the Barbet and
the dog to do so. The English Pointer, the Wetterhoun, which specialize
which features in many old sporting in flushing waterbirds.
portraits alongside hunting squires The retrievers were bred
and their “bags” of game birds, is a specifically for retrieving
classic example of the type. waterfowl. In common with

FAMILY RETRIEVER
The water-loving Golden
Retriever is a popular
bird dog that, because
of its gentle, calm, and
lovable temperament,
has also become a firm
family favorite.

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