Best not Try This In The Winter, But Once They Can Swim It Looks Fun

When you first introduce your gundog to water, it can be a joy and a frustration.  You have a dog that should in all intense and purposes love the water.  You are expecting your dog to jump right in and start swimming but then, when you finally get out to the water; your dog not only refuses to go in but also behaves as though you are trying to dip him in acid.

This is where the frustration can come from.  You want your dog to enjoy himself but you also want him to enjoy himself in the water.  Still, some gundogs are just not willing to get into the water and this can put many of them at risk for a negative experience.  Some owners, especially novice owners, will simply place their puppy in water, regardless of their dog’s stress.  This should never be done since it has the potential to ruin your gundog.

Instead, introducing your gundog takes the same patience and fortitude that introducing your gundog to anything in their training.  If they don’t go in the first time, just try again and again until they go into the water.

Even with that thought in mind, there are a number of ways that you can introduce your gundog to water to make it both enjoyable and easy.

Use an older dog.

If you can, bring along an older dog that loves water.  This will give your young gundog someone to learn from. When the older dog goes in and is enjoying himself, your younger one will begin to wander in simply to be with the older dog.  J

Start in a lake or other slow moving (still) water

Starting in moving water can be a big mistake for several reasons. First, the gundog puppy could be pulled under by a strong current or taken too far downstream.  Safety is important when introducing your gundog to water.

Second, the gundog puppy may be more hesitant about entering water that is moving. This can create a negative experience from the start and will make other trips to water much harder.

Lastly, your gundog puppy may become distracted by the noise of the water and will have more difficulty focusing on you and also on what you are trying to do.

Make it a game

The last tip that I have for introducing the gundog puppy to water is to make it fun and make it a game.  When you puppy first gets to the water, throw out a dummy for him to retrieve, if he does retrieve, a few inches from the shoreline.  Your puppy will only get his feet wet but if he wants the dummy, he will have to touch the water.

When he is comfortable retrieving from a few inches away, throw the dummy a little further.  Go slow with this process and make sure that your puppy is comfortable with the new depth. Before you know it, your gundog puppy will be more than happy to dive in after anything you throw out.

It is important when you do introduce your gundog to water that you never correct or punish him for not going in the water. This is a different feel, smell and overall experience for your dog so let him dictate the length of time it takes.  If you do, you will be overjoyed with the result.

For a overview of training why not try our beginners guide to gundog dvd avaliable at amazon.com and amazon.co.uk

I Was hoping to give you a video of sam on his first duck shoot this week but due to a few training issues in the last week, i have got a film of a similar aged labrador which is retreiving some ducks.

Even though 10-12 months is to early to be taking dogs shooting on proper shoots you can introduce them to some duck, will show you sam in the next few weeks, for more on sams training go to hunting dog training

That brings us to this weeks topic of what makes a good duck shooting gundog

Like many other types of gundogs, there really is no mystery about what that gundog is used for. A goose or duck-shooting gundog is one, in simple terms, that is used for hunting goose and duck.

Of course, there is never juts a simple explanation and I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t get into it a bit more than simply stating the obvious. In general, a duck or goose-shooting gundog is a gundog that can work on both land and water. This is the dog that can sit with you as you wait patiently for the ducks or goose and it is a dog that does not start at the sudden gunfire that can occur during a duck hunt.

In addition, the goose/duck shooting gundog is one that doesn’t become overly excited as the birds fly overhead and takes off in pursuit of them.

With a goose/duck shooting gundog, your gundog will sit patiently in the blind or wherever you are sitting until you give the command to retrieve the birds that you have shot. The dog will then go into the water or wherever the bird landed and will retrieve it.

If a bird is crippled, but not dead, the dog will quickly retrieve it and bring it back for you to dispatch it humanely. A goose/duck shooting gundog is conditioned and trained to pick up these types of wildfowl and they are comfortable in their role on the shoot.

You may go and buy a Retriever if you watch video above

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a medium sized breed of dog with an interesting look that consists of a broad head and tan to dark brown or red coat that has a slight wave to it. They are beautiful dogs that really exhibit the athletic build that one looks for in a working breed.

In addition to this build, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an intelligent breed that thrives when it is out working. They are very affectionate to those they know but do not have the “love everyone” that so many other breeds has. Instead, they tend to be a bit more reserved and they also have a very strong will.

It is actually this strong will that really sets the Chesapeake Bay Retriever aside from other retrievers. They can be slow to learn, not because they are not intelligent, but because they are not a breed that will jump for anything. For this reason, they are not recommended for new or timid owners and they really need an owner that can be firm and patient at the same time.

Even still, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a breed that was made for retrieving on water and they have proven time and time again that they are perfect for retrieving waterfowl on any type of terrain.

Pro’s and con’s of owning an Irish Water Spaniel

If you are looking at the Chesapeake Bay Retriever because it gives you a Labrador Retriever with an unusual coat, then you should look for another breed because you would be farthest from the truth as you can be. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an energetic breed but they tend to be more reserved and have a very strong will. They are not eager to please but they have a confidence that endears them to many owners and trainers alike. While they have many positive qualities, they also have a few that make them a poor match with many owners. It is very important to really know this breed before you purchase one.

The Pro’s

There are many good points about the Chesapeake Bay Retriever breed and while they are considered more uncommon today, there was a time when this breed was a preferred pet for many sportsmen and hunters. Generally, this is an active breed that works hard in the field and truly shines in water.

• They are very friendly and loving and make excellent family dogs and are usually very good with children.
• Chesapeake Bay Retrievers do very well in outdoor kennels and actually prefer to sleep outside.
• They have a steady temperament, although they are exuberant when young.
• While they are friendly, they are more reserved than many other retriever breeds.
• They can make excellent watchdogs since they tend to be suspicious of new people.
• They are easy to groom.
• Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are very intelligent and will take to training quickly; however, they may not always listen since they are strong willed.

The Con’s

As with all dog breeds, there are a number of cons that should be taken into consideration before you purchase a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. The breed has an active and bouncy personality that does not work for everyone.

• They are an active breed that requires at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, although, it is much better if they have closer to 60 minutes.
• Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are average shedders.
• Although they are a retriever, they do not have the eager to please mentality of many retrievers. Instead, they can be very strong willed and need a confident owner and trainer.
• They have been known to have some territorial aggression towards other animals so it is very important to properly socialize this breed.
• They are very jumpy and tend to mature slower than other breeds.
• Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can be very mouthy and may chew objects or nip at hands.
• They can suffer from separation anxiety and will become destructive if they are bored.

Health Issues:

While the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a number of hereditary diseases that can affect them, they do not have as many as some breeds and are considered to be fairly hardy as a sporting breed.

However, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has had some instances of Exercise Induced Collapse where a dog’s muscles will refuse to work, thus causing a collapse in the dog. Studies are still being done on the issue and even a dog that has not been exercising can suffer from a collapse. It is important to be aware of this when you purchase a dog. It is also important to research your breeders and to make sure that they are only using dogs that have been properly screened for health problems. Some issues that are seen in the Chesapeake Bay Retriever are:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Hypothyroidism
• Epilepsy
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Cataracts
• Gastric Torsion or Bloat

Height & Weight:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a strong and athletic breed of dog that should have smooth lines with a rump that is the same height or slightly higher than the shoulders. This is a breed that is used to the extremes of cold temperatures and this trait can be seen in the strength and substance of the dog. It should never be too large but it should have a medium build that gives the appearance of endurance.

The size of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is:

Males: 23 to 26 inches (58 to 66 cm) tall and 65 to 80 pounds (29 to 36 kg).
Females: 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm) tall and 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 22 kg).

Note: Height is always determined from the ground up to the withers, also known as the highest spot on the shoulders, of the dog. In the Weimaraner the withers are slightly higher than the back of the dog.

Grooming:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is actually a very easy dog to groom and they don’t need a lot of maintenance to keep them clean and tidy. While they are easy to groom, they are also average shedders so there will be periods when you have a lot of hair to remove.

When it comes to grooming, it is recommended that you brush them out once a week to remove any dead hairs or debris. Also, it is important to brush these dogs out after they have been in the field to make sure that no dirt or debris will cause mats in their fur.

With bathing, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever only needs to be bathed once or twice per year. Since this is a working breed that was designed to work in water, they have a weatherproofing oil in the hair and washing the dog will only strip this oil from their hair.

Nails should be kept trimmed and if there are any hairs between the toes, it should be trimmed as well. Also keep the dog’s ears clean and dry to avoid any ear infections.

Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

History:

If you are looking for a breed that has an interesting history, then you should look no farther than the Chesapeake Bay Retriever. This breed was originated in the early 1800’s and they can actually trace their heritage back to a shipwreck in 1807.

As the history, which is well documented states, a ship that was bound for England from Newfoundland Canada was shipwrecked just off the coast of Maryland. Thankfully the cargo and crew were rescued and taken into the United States.

While this may seem like a strange place to start the history, what is of more important note to dog lovers is that on board the wrecked ship were two Newfoundland puppies, a male and female, that were bound for England.

The two dogs didn’t make it to England and were instead given to two men who were shown gratitude by the shipwrecked sailors for both of their hospitality. The two men, John Mercer and Dr. James Stuart, trained the dogs for retrieving waterfowl and were delighted to have two dogs that were exceptional at it.

In fact, the two dogs were so renowned for their retrieving abilities that any offspring the two produced were sought after by local sportsmen. While the foundation dogs were the two Newfoundland puppies off the shipwreck, whose names were Sailor, the reddish brown male, and Canton, the black female, many other dogs went into creating the Chesapeake Bay Retriever as we know it today.

Generally, many of the puppies that were purchased from Sailor and Canton were bred to many other dogs, including a non-descript retriever that was commonly used in the area. In addition, it is believed that the Flat Coated Retriever, Otter Hound and Curly-Coated Retriever were introduced into the pedigree and each one offered a trait to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

Within only a few generations, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was created and by the mid-1800’s, many breeds were already breeding to form. Because of this, many sportsmen strived to keep the breed from being destroyed and in the late 1800’s, the Carroll Island Gun Club created a pedigree for the Chesapeake Bay Dog.

During the last twenty years of the 1800’s, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever had several different names but in 1890, the name was finally awarded to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever and the breed club was finally formed in the 1890’s.

While the breed became popular in the early and mid 1900’s, with the decline of bird populations and sportsmen, the breed began to see a bit of a decline in the number of Chesapeake Bay Retrievers that were being produced. Thankfully, they are once again on the rise in numbers but they still remain a fairly unfamiliar breed.

Still, the breed has a large following and recently there has been a concern of the breed splitting into two separate types; show and field lines. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever became the state dog of Maryland in 1964.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, ANKC, APRI, ACR

If you are interested in rehoming a Chesapeake Bay Retriever

This short video is better than most of the photos I found.

And if you want to see the cutest video i have ever seen watch the one below

If being the tallest of spaniels isn’t enough to get this breed noticed, then their rich liver colored curls and rat-like tail, which is free of the curls, is sure to draw teh eye. Add to that a balanced appearance that truly shows off the breeds athleticism and you are left with an exceptional dog.

The Irish Water Spaniel, or Rat Tailed Spaniel as it is sometimes referred as, is an exceptional spaniel that is often used for retrieving waterfowl and is a natural in retrieving on water. In addition, this is a breed that is known to have a zest for life. They can be wonderful clowns and they often pair that sense of humor with an intelligent that can be respected by both pet owners and hunters alike.

The main problem with this breed is that they can be fairly strong willed and while they will easily pick up training, they don’t always feel the need to listen. This makes the breed only suitable for experienced and firm owners.

Still, even with that stubborn streak, the Irish Water Spaniel makes a wonderful site in the field and they often bond very well with their families, which makes them an equally wonderful site at home.

Pro’s and con’s of owning an Irish Water Spaniel

As with all breeds, there are a number of pros and cons to be considered when you are looking at purchasing an Irish Water Spaniel. These are dogs that have a lot of good qualities that endear them to young and old alike, but they also have some traits that can be a challenge to even the most experienced dog owner. In addition, the Irish Water Spaniel does have a number of health problems that can arise so it is important to really research the breeder as well as the breed before you purchase.

The Pro’s

The Irish Water Spaniel is a very active hunting dog that can make life wonderful for any avid hunter or sportsman. They excel at hunting waterfowl and do extremely well with retrieving in water.

• They are hard workers and enjoy being in the field.
• They are very protective of their family and home and make excellent watchdogs, although they are not the best when it comes to guarding.
• Irish Water Spaniels are very intelligent and will learn a task very quickly.
• They are low shedders and are considered to be hypoallergetic.
• With proper exercise, they can live in any type of dwelling but they do need to have a fenced yard for some outdoor stimulation.
• They do very well with children and make excellent family dogs.

The Con’s

As with all breeds, there are a number of cons that should be considered when you are deciding on purchasing an Irish Water Spaniel. These are:

• Although they were once the third most popular gundog for sportsmen, today, the Irish Water Spaniel is a bit more difficult to find so you may have a long wait when you are purchasing a puppy.
• They require regular grooming that can be quite intensive.
• They can be aggressive to other animals but with proper socialization, this can be solved.
• They are very intelligent and can suffer from boredom if they are not properly stimulated.
• They are a working breed so they do require a large amount of exercise every day; usually between 30 to 60 minutes per day.
• Without proper socialization, Irish Water Spaniels can be fearful of strangers.
• Irish Water Spaniels can be very strong willed and does require a firm trainer.

Health Issues:

The Irish Water Spaniel has a number of hereditary diseases that can affect them and it is very important to be aware of them before you purchase a puppy.

In addition, some Irish Water Spaniels have been known to have adverse reactions to a number of drugs and vaccinations. It is very important that you alert your veterinarian to these risks and to talk to your breeder about vaccinating before you do so. According to the Irish Water Spaniel Club of America, the drugs, in addition to vaccines that contain the leptospirosis component, that should be avoided are:

• Delyoprim
• Norodine
• Borgal Sulphadioaxine Trimethroprim
• Zaquilan Sulphadimethoxine Baquiloprim
• Co-trimoxazole Sulphamethoxazole Trimethroprim Tribressen (or Di Trim)
• Dulphatrim Sulphadiazine Trimethroprim
• Delyoprim

Aside from these problems, the Irish Water Spaniel has a number of health issues that should be considered before purchasing a puppy. Therefore, it is very important to research your breeders and to make sure that they are only using dogs that have been properly screened for health problems.

• Hip dysplasia
• Paronychia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Bloody tail tip
• Hypothyroidism
• Epilepsy
• Von Willebrand’s Disease
• Alopecia
• Ear Infections
• Megaesophagus
• Sebaceous Adenitis
• Entropion

Height & Weight:

The Irish Water Spaniel is a medium sized dog that exhibits the appearance of a strong and intelligent gundog. This is a dog that is well balanced and has a build that really speaks of endurance. The Irish Water Spaniel should be rectangular in length and should have a chest that is pear shaped instead of wide. It should also have no appearance of a tucked up stomach.

The size of an Irish Water Spaniel is:

Males: 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) tall and 55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29 kg).
Females: 21 to 23 inches (53 to 58 cm) tall and 45 to 58 pounds (20 to 26 kg).

Note: Height is always determined from the ground up to the withers, also known as the highest spot on the shoulders, of the dog. In the Weimaraner the withers are slightly higher than the back of the dog.

Grooming:

Although the Irish Water Spaniel is a low shedder, it is a breed that needs ample care when it comes to their coat. Generally, the Irish Water Spaniel should be groomed on a weekly or twice weekly basis. This is to keep their coat free of mats and to remove any dead hair or debris that may have been caught in their dense curls.

In addition to brushing the dog, hair should be trimmed every few weeks to keep it uniformed and tidy. Although how it is trimmed is less important when you are not showing your dog, it is still important to do it to keep the dog cool and to keep the coat from collecting a lot of debris.

Hair between the toes and around the ears should be kept tidy to prevent any infections or sores from forming. In addition, nails should be trimmed regularily to prevent splitting.

Ears should be cleaned on a regular basis and should be wiped dry after the Irish Water Spaniel has been swimming or bathed.

When it comes to bathing, the dog should be bathed once every month or two since overwashing can strip the natural oils from the dog’s fur and ruin some of its natural water resistance.

Lastly, to make the curls bounce back to their natural beauty after a brushing, allow the dog the chance for a swim or wet the curls with a quick hose down.

Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

History:

The Irish Water Spaniel originated in Ireland and can trace its heritage back to before the early 1600’s. In fact, the breed was described in the book, “Historie of the four-tooted Beastes,” which was published in 1607.

Although we are unsure of the breeds that went into the Irish Water Spaniel, we do know that at one time, prior to the 1850’s, the breed was actually seen as two specific breeds of dog. These were the South Country Water Spaniel, which was a liver colored dog that has long ears and a coat that had short curls, and the North Country Water Spaniel, which was a liver and white colored dog with short ears and a curly coat. Both breeds were considered to share the same lineage, which many have felt was shared by the Poodle.

While the two breeds are both said to have contributed to the Irish Water Spaniel as it is today, it is believed that the South Country Water Spaniel had more influence in shaping the breed. Despite this, we do know that Justin McCarthy, a sportsman from Dublin, is credited with creating the breed as we know it today.

Through careful breeding, the Irish Water Spaniel was born and many sportsmen from both Ireland and England found it a superb retrieving dog, especially when it came to retrieving in water.

The first Irish Water Spaniel was imported to North America in the 1870’s and it has continued to thrive in the United States.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Above you will see Why pointer is in the title of Wiredhaired Pointer Dogs
The striking coat of liver and white, roan, ticked or spotted that covers this wiry-haired dog is usually one of the first things that a person will notice on this breed; the next is the strong neck, robust body and intelligence that are shining in the German Wirehaired Pointer’s brown eyes.

And that is what will draw you in to this breed; the intelligence that they have, which usually makes them very eager to learn and also able to really think for themselves when they are out in the field. Designed to work in rough terrains, the German Wirehaired Pointer is a hard working and versatile hunting dog that can be used for both large game and birds. They thrive when they are working and will be happy in the field where they can track, point and retrieve.

Despite their ability in the field, they are a dominant breed and are not suited for a new or timid owner who is not willing to set firm rules and stick to them. If for any reason, they feel that their owner is being passive, they will gladly step into the role of dominant. They can be quite aggressive with other dogs and without proper exercise and stimulation; they can become very hard to manage.

Even with these negatives, hunters and sportsmen alike have found a rare gem in this loyal breed and the popularity of the breed is growing.

Pro’s and con’s of owning an German Wirehaired Pointer

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an active breed that is full of life, energy and attitude. This is a strong breed, in both build and temperament and they will do their best to take control of the home. They are very friendly, but usually only with those they know and they are a born leader that proves itself to be a versatile hunting dog that can be used to hunt a variety of quarry in the roughest of terrains. While this breed is energetic and has been ranked as an ideal field dog, it is not for everyone. They have a variety of pros and cons and it is important to weigh each one before you choose whether a Flat Coated Retriever is the right breed for you.

The Pro’s

There are many good points about the German Wirehaired Pointer breed and they do have a lot of popularity in Europe, especially in Germany. If you are looking for a confident dog that is happy to work, then you will find the perfect companion in the German Wirehaired Pointer.

• They have a steady temperament that really suits a lot of people. While they can be rambunctious as puppies, they are a hardworking breed that is very dependable.
• They don’t accept everyone and are much more discriminating of who they befriend than other hunting breeds.
• German Wirehaired Pointers are a versatile hunting dog that can be used to hunt large game and fowl.
• They are considered to be a hardy breed.
• Their coat makes them ideal for working rough terrain.
• Since they are usually suspicious of strangers, they make an excellent watchdog.
• They are very intelligent and will quickly pick up training; however, they may not always listen.

The Con’s

All dog breeds have a few cons about them but the German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed that is known for their dominance. This can pose a lot of problems for a lot of owners and can be a constant struggle to own. They are not the right breed for everyone so make sure you do some research into the breed before you purchase one.

• They are average shedders so expect a fair amount of hair in the house.
• The German Wirehaired Pointer is an active breed of dog and requires vigorous exercise every day. Be prepared to exercise your dog about 30 to 60 minutes per day.
• They can be very aggressive to other animals if they are not properly socialized at a young age.
• German Wirehaired Pointers are very strong-willed and is not recommended for new or timid owners since they will take over as the dominant very quickly.
• They enjoy being with their family and will often suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone too much.
• They do require a fair amount of grooming.
• While they can be affectionate with children, their dominance issues can cause problems and they aren’t really recommended for homes with younger children.

Health Issues:

The German Wirehaired Pointer is considered to be a very hardy breed with very few health concerns. However, there are still a few that are present and it is important to choose puppies from responsible breeders to ensure that the breed remains hardy. Make sure that you research your breeder and that they are only using dogs who have been properly screened for health problems. Some issues that are seen in the German Wirehaired Pointer are:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Von Willebrand’s Disease
• Ear Infections
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Cataracts

Height & Weight:

A medium sized dog that was made for agility and endurance, the German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed that exhibits both of those traits. This is a breed with a balanced appearance that is solidly built but not too large to seem rough. In addition, it has a distinctive appearance that has a working quality about it. The body of the German Wirehaired Pointer is slightly longer than it is tall, at a ratio of 9 to 10, to form a slightly rectangular shape.

The size of a German Wirehaired Pointer is:

Males: 24 to 26 inches (61 to 67 cm) tall.
Females: 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) tall.

Both Males and Females range in weight from 60 to 70 pounds (27 to 32 kg).

Note: Height is always determined from the ground up to the withers, also known as the highest spot on the shoulders, of the dog.

Grooming:

The German Wirehaired Pointed is an average shedder but it has a coat that does require quite a bit of care, making it a breed that isn’t best for first time owners who are unsure how to deal with the wirehaired coat.

Generally, the coat should be brushed about twice a week to remove any dead hair and debris. In addition, the coat should be stripped several times a year, either by hand or with a stripping brush to remove any mats that may be occurring.

Bathing the coat is actually only done when it is absolutely necessary and with good care of the coat, that should only be about once or twice per year. After the bathing and brushing, the hair should be checked on the feet and any that grow between toes should be trimmed short. Toes should also be kept trimmed and ears should be kept clean and tidy to avoid any ear infections from occurring.

Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years, although 16 years of age is not unheard of.

History:

The German Wirehaired Pointer can trace its history back to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s when a need for a versatile hunting dog became evident. Sportsmen in Germany found that while the German Shorthaired Pointed was an excellent hunting breed, they did not have the robustness to handle larger game and their coat did not offer them the protection they needed to work rugged terrain.

With that realization came the development of the German Wirehaired P0inter that met all of their needs in both coat and build. Although many people suspect that a terrier breed was introduced into the lineage, the German Wirehaired Pointer was developed by cross breeding several other breeds including the Pudelpointer, the Polish Water Dog and the German Shorthaired Pointer.

While the breed was fairly unknown in other parts of Europe and North America, its intelligence, hunting ability and energy made it very popular in both Germany and Scandinavian countries, although in those countries, as well as many European countries, it is called the Deutsch Drahthaar, which means “German Wirehair.”

Even though they are not as well known in North America, they have begun to see more popularity over the years, mainly due to their versatility as a hunting dog. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, GWPCA, NZKC, VDD/GNA, ANKC, APRI, ACR

For more info visit the UK’s GWP Club

Hope You Enjoy This Video Overview Of The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium sized hunting dog that is known for their beautiful red coat that often brings to mind the coat of a Golden Retriever. In fact, many people often mistake these dogs for miniature Golden Retrievers but they are not like them in any way, except in appearance. In many of the dogs, a white tip on the end of their tail is also seen and is used in an interesting manner by the dog.

These are very hard working gundogs and while they can be very friendly to their own family members, they are usually reserved and distrustful of people they don’t know and they have a very strong prey drive, which makes them unsuitable for homes with smaller pets.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a very active breed that requires a lot of exercise. They are used in a variety of ways in the field but have an interesting way of luring ducks, which is called Tolling.

This is a rare breed and while it may not have the personality of a lot of retrievers, there is little doubt that you can see some amazing things when you see a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever in the field.

Pro’s and con’s of owning a Flat Coated Retriever.

Like all breeds, there are a number of pros and cons involved with the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. While this is a very friendly breed that brings a unique dynamic to duck hunting and to the family, it is also not a breed that is suitable for everyone. They have a very strong prey drive and they also have a lot of energy.

The Pro’s

There are many good points about the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and if you are looking for a smaller, very energetic gundog, then this is definitely the breed for you.

• They do well in a variety of dwellings and will even do well in apartments.

• They are very friendly dogs and usually do well with children of all ages.

• They look similar to the Golden Retriever, only smaller. It is important to note that this is not a miniature Golden Retriever. They have different personalities than the Golden Retriever and there is a distinct difference between them. If you want to upset a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breeder, simply refer to their dogs as a Golden Retriever.

• Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are very hard working dogs.

• They usually do very well with other dogs.

• They are very good at being a guard dog and will alert bark.

• They have a very unique way of luring birds called Tolling, which is where they get their name from.

• They are a rare breed.

• They are considered to be moderate shedders.

The Con’s

As with all dog breeds, there are a number of cons that should be taken into consideration before you purchase a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. The breed has an active personality that does not work for everyone.

• They are a working breed so they have lots of energy. Expect to exercise your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever about 30 to 60 minutes per day.

• Since the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a rare breed, there can be a long waiting list to purchase one.

• There is a small breeding pool for the breed and some diseases are beginning to occur in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

• They will need to be groomed on a weekly basis.

• This is not a clean dog. Yes they are easy to groom but the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever delights in rolling in puddles and jumping in mud. They will quickly put that mud into the house the moment they come in.

• They are not as friendly as other retrievers and tend to be a bit reserved with people.

• They need to be properly socialized to avoid any aggression, especially stranger aggression.

• The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a very strong prey drive. They are not recommended for homes with cats or other small animals. They will also chase squirrels and other animals in their yard if they are given the chance.

Health Issues:

When it comes to health, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a very hardy breed but there have been a number of diseases that have and are becoming a problem for the breed. This is due to the fact that there is a very limited number of dogs in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s breeding pool. It is very important that you make sure that all health checks have been done on the parents and that the breeder is using healthy breeding stock. This will help not only lower the risk of having an unhealthy gundog but will also ensure that the disorders that are occurring in the breed are prevented. If you doubt at any time that they are, look for a new breeder.

• Hip Dysplasia
• Deafness
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Auto-immune Hemolytic Anemia
• Hypothyroidism
• Hydrocephalus
• Chondrodysplasia
• Cataracts
• Epilepsy
• Megaesophagus
• Addison’s Disease
• Collie Eye Anomaly

Height & Weight:

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium sized dog that is used for retrieving. They are usually slightly longer than they are tall and they are a breed that is known for its well balanced and appearance of being a powerful athlete. While there is a range of acceptable height, the idea size for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 19 inches (48 cm) for a male and 18 inches (46 cm) for a female.

The size of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is:

Males: 18 to 21 inches (46 to 53 cm) tall and 45 to 51 pounds (21 to 23 kg)

Females: 17 to 20 inches (43 to 51 cm) tall and 37 to 43 pounds (17 to 20 kg)

Note: Height is always determined from the ground up to the withers, also known as the highest spot on the shoulders, of the dog.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming the medium coat of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, many people often feel that it will take a lot of time. In fact, it doesn’t take much time at all and a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can be brushed on a weekly basis to keep the tangles and mats from the hair.

In addition, you should always take the time to brush the coat whenever your dog comes in from the field since brambles and other debris can cause a lot of problems. Generally, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is considered to be a moderate shedder, except when they are blowing their coat.

The other grooming that should be done with this breed is to strip any mats out of the coat and to also keep the hair between the dog’s toes kept trim. Nails should also be kept trimmed and ears should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent ear infections.

With bathing, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever should only be bathed when it is absolutely necessary and could probably done once or twice a year.

Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years

History:

The history of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is not entirely clear. We do know that it originated in Little River, which is in Nova Scotia, Canada but we aren’t exactly sure how they came to be. It is believed that the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the early 1800’s but there has been some evidence that the dogs may have existed as far back as the 17th century.

In fact, the dog was recorded by a Nicholas Denys (1598-1688) who wrote of the small red dogs and their amazing retrieving ability but many people believe that these dogs were ancestors of the Nova Scotia Duck tolling Retriever as the dog is today.

Still, even with that murky history behind them, most enthusiasts believe that the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can own their origins to James Allen who crossed a liver colored Flat Coated Retriever with a St. John’s dog. From those dogs, the puppies were bred to Cocker Spaniels and the Irish Setter and it is believed that the Golden Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever and the Collie were also introduced into the line.

Although it has a fairly long history, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has remained a rare breed and was not recognized by the CKC until 1945 and the AKC until 2003.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

CKC, FCI, UKC, CKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

2 Red Vizsla Out Hunting

The Vizsla, which is also known as the Hungarian Pointer or Hungarian Vizsla, is a versatile hunting dog that can be distinguished by its slender build and short smooth coat that ranges in color from pale yellow to dark mahogany, with golden rust being the preferred color.

The Vizsla is an ancient hunting dog and is believed to have originated in the area of Hungary. They have been prized hunting dogs for centuries and one look at a Vizsla in the field is enough to understand why. These dogs are idea for pointing but they have proven their worth as both flushing dogs and retrievers.

Generally, the Vizsla is a very active dog. They thrive when they have a job to do and work even better when they are with their family. They are not the best breed to have in apartments and they are also not the best breed to be used as kennel dogs. They need human interaction and socialization and can easily become very timid and shy if they do not have that.

In addition, the Vizsla is not a breed for the novice dog owner. They need ample training and socialization and they can be high strung without the proper guidance. When they do have that guidance, they can be a joy to have around and you can find them, more often than not, at the feet of their owner, whether they are at home or in the field; that is, unless there is a job to do.

Pro’s and con’s of owning a Vizsla.

The Vizsla is an old breed of gundog that is happy in both the field and at home. They are full of energy and have proven to those who own them that they can apply that energy constructively in the field. They are a versatile breed that can be at home in a wide range of roles on the field but they are not a breed for everyone, especially a novice dog owner. This is a breed that requires a lot of training, patience and socialization but the effort always pays off when you finally see your Vizsla in the field.

The Pro’s

There are many good points about the Vizsla breed and they have been cherished as a versatile working dog. They are definitely a dog to take notice of in the field and are sure to impress even the most seasoned hunter.

• They are a versatile gundog that can be used for flushing, pointing and retrieving a wide range of prey, not just waterfowl or upland birds.
• They do well with many other pets and can thrive in a multi-dog family.
• They can do well as family dogs but are better suited for homes with older children due to their energy level and rambunctiousness.
• While the Vizsla is considered to be a regular shedder, they are actually very easy to groom and have a low doggy smell to their skin, which means they only need an occasional bath.
• The breed is considered to be a fairly hardy breed.

The Con’s

As with all dog breeds, there are a number of cons that should be taken into consideration before you purchase a Vizsla.

• They are very energetic and require about 60 minutes of exercise every day.
• Vizslas need to be properly socialized. If they aren’t, they can be very timid and this can be lead to other behavioral problems.
• They are not recommended for first time owners since they can be difficult to train and they can be stubborn.
• They are not the ideal dog for an apartment since they have high energy levels and they really need a well fenced area to run in.
• Vizslas are often coined “Velcro dogs” and prefer to be with their owners at all times. They are not the best dog for kennels and they will suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time.
• Some Vizsla can be very high strung so it is very important to see the parents before purchasing.
• Vizslas are considered to be chewers so a lot of effort will need to be made to keep them from chewing items around the house.

Health Issues:

The Vizsla is a very healthy breed and has few diseases and disorders that are considered to be hereditary. That being said, hip dysplasia is seeing an increase in the breed, as are a number of other diseases. To make it a bit easier for you, we have listed all of the diseases that have been seen in the breed, although they are at lower occurrences than in other breeds. To prevent these diseases, it is important that you make sure that all health checks have been done on the parents and that the breeder is using healthy breeding stock. If you doubt at any time that they are, look for a new breeder.

• Hip Dysplasia
• Hemophilia A
• Lymphosarcoma
• Cataracts
• Allergies
• Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
• Hemangiosarcoma
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Epilepsy

Height & Weight:

The Vizsla is a medium sized hunting dog that should be light in build and should never be overweight. In fact, a lot of emphasis is placed on the dog having a brawny appearance and they should be very sinewy as well. In addition to build, height is also very important with the Vizsla and the ideal specimen should be no taller or shorter than 1.5 inches outside the breed standard, with breed standard being the best.

The size of a Vizsla Gundog is:

Males: 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) tall and 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg)
Females: 21 to 23 inches (53 to 58 cm) tall and 40 to 55 pounds (18 to 25 kg)

Note: Height is always determined from the ground up to the withers, also known as the highest spot on the shoulders, of the dog.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, the Vizsla is actually a very easy dog to tend to. This is because of their close lying, short coat that is also very dense and smooth. The coat does not pick up a lot of debris in the field, so they require only minimal brushings because of it.

Still, a Vizsla is an average shedder so they will need to be brushed about once a week to keep dead hair to a minimum. Also, it is important to keep the dog clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth on a weekly basis. Generally, the Vizsla does not require regular bathing and can be washed once or twice a year.

The last step for grooming a Vizsla is to check the ears and keep them clean of any build-up or debris and to keep the nails trimmed to prevent splitting or tearing.

Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years

History:

While the Vizsla is not a well known breed, it is not a new breed. In fact, it is one of the oldest breeds alive today and it can be traced back to about the 10th Century AD or even earlier. There is actually no clear history on the breed but we do know that the breed is descended from the hunting dog that was used by the Magyar, who settled in and around Hungary.

In addition, we know that the Vizsla was a favorite breed of dog for Hungarian nobility, who cherished the dogs for their ability to hunt. The breed proved to many that they were a versatile hunting dog that could flush out many types of prey from game birds to wild boar. They could also be trained to move quietly towards quarry and later it was established that the breed could also point and retrieve prey.

Despite their versatility, the Vizsla began to dwindle in number and was almost wiped out by both world wars. If it wasn’t for the dedication of a handful of breeders, the Vizsla would have been lost before the end of World War II.
Luckily the breed survived, and the first Vizsla to be imported into the United States was in the 1950’s. The Vizsla was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960 and today, while it is still a rare breed, it has been recognized as a versatile hunting and working dog and has been used as both hunting and service dogs.
Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Watch Them all, or if you are short on time just skim through them, it will defently help in your training.

The Subtitles are in french but it makes no difference to the skill showed

It just shows English setter gundog puppies running on the garden, just watch how much fun they have.