This is a quick video showing some typical Large Munsterlander Gundog

If one was looking for a breed of dog that was built to work, then one doesn’t have to look farther than this athletic dog that is covered in an attractive coat of mottled black and white. The Large Munsterlander gundog is a hard working gundog breed that has all the enthusiasm that one would expect from a hunting dog.

The breed is courageous and is known for their ability to be versatile in the field. They are very intelligent and combined with their eagerness to please, they are very quick to learn and with the proper guidance will stay on course when they are in the field.

When they are at home, they are a loving pet and do better if they can live in the home with their owners. In addition, they thrive when they have ample time with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety if they are left too long. They do very well with other dogs and with children but they are not suited for homes with small pets.

In addition, they are also not suited for apartment life and will do much better if they have an active family that is willing to give it the attention and exercise the breed needs.

Pro’s and con’s of owning an Large Munsterlander

The Large Munsterlander is a versatile gundog that seems to be the perfect breed for both home and field. They are happy to work in a number of tasks and usually seem happiest when they are at work. When they aren’t working, they make excellent family dogs and they are very loyal to their owners. Unfortunately, they can be overly clingy and if they are not properly exercised or stimulated, they can be very destructive. The Large Munsterlander is an active dog that is not suited for everyone and it is important to be aware of their pros and cons before you purchase one.

The Pro’s

One look at the Large Munsterlander and you can see that it is a beautiful breed with its unique black and white mottled coat and large dark eyes. This is an intelligent breed that has shown its worth in the field as a versatile gundog that can be used in a variety of ways including pointing, retrieving and tracking.

• They are a rare breed and most are bred for gundog work

• They are very intelligent and are usually very eager to please. This makes them easier to train.

• They are very sociable and do well in homes with other dogs.

• The Large Munsterlander is a gentle breed and they do very well with children.

• They are a hard working breed.

The Con’s

The Large Munsterlander has proved too many sportsmen that they are an amazing breed of dog that is versatile in the field and at home but they are not a breed for everyone. This is an active breed that prefers family life to kennel and they may not be suitable for everyone.

• They can be very vocal dogs.

• They are a rare breed of dog so the waiting lists can be quite long and they can be expensive. In addition, many breeders only sell to hunting families.

• The Large Munsterlander is an average shedder with periods in the year where they are high shedders.

• They require a fair amount of grooming.

• They are not suited for homes that have small animals since they do have a strong prey drive.

• The Large Munsterlander is not suited for kennel life and will become destructive if they are separated from their family for long periods of time.

• They are active dogs that require at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, sometimes more.

• They are not suited for apartments and do much better in a home with a large fenced yard.

• They can be very mouthy and are prone to nipping and chewing.

Health Issues:

The Large Munsterlander is a very healthy breed and as of now, many studies are being put forward to test the health issues in the breeds. As it stands, there are very few health problems but it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder that has properly screened their dogs before breeding to insure that the breed remains healthy. Some issues that are seen in the Large Munsterlander are:

• Hip Dysplasia

• Eye Problems

Height & Weight:

The Large Munsterlander is a medium sized dog that has the appearance of a well balanced athletic breed. They are well muscled with well sprung ribs, slightly tucked up abdomen and a square body that is the same length as it is high. They should be elegant in appearance with enough muscle to appear solid but not bulky.

The size of a Large Munsterlander is:

Males: 24 to 26 inches (60 to 65 cm) tall

Females: 23 to 25 inches (58 to 63 cm) tall

Weight for both the male and female Large Munsterlander should be 50 to 70 pounds (23 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 Large Munsterlander’s grooming needs are actually different between male and female and it usually is because of the length of the coat. Females have a shorter coat than males and because of this, the female’s only need to be brushed once or twice a week to keep the fur free of any debris, mats and dead hairs. Males, on the other hand, require a brushing either daily or every other day.

The breed on the whole, is considered to be an average shedder but there are periods in the year when they are heavy shedders. During this time, the dog should be brushed frequently to keep the amount of hair to a minimal.

Bathing should only be done when the dog needs it and can be done on a monthly or bi-monthly basis, although some dogs can be bathed less and some need to be bathed more. Care should be taken of the ears and they should be kept clean and dry to prevent ear infections.

Nails should be kept trimmed and any excess hair should be trimmed from between the toes.

Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years

History:

The Large Munsterlander can trace its origins back to Germany and is believed to have been developed in Munster, Germany. Although the breed is still fairly young, it is believed to be traced back to the early 1800’s but it was considered to be a color variation of the German Longhaired Pointer.

It wasn’t until the early 1900’s that the Large Munsterlander was recognized for what it really was, a versatile hunting dog that was separate from the German Longhaired Pointer. The Large Munsterlander club was formed in 1919 and the breed was imported to the United States in 1966 where it has continued to grow slowly in popularity.

Grouping:

Gun Dog

Recognition:

LMCNA, FCI, KCGB, NKC, NZKC, CKC, ANKC, APRI, ACR

Click For more on large Munsterlander gundog

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.

The Weimaraner Hunting Dog or Gray ghost is a phrase that is often associated with this breed and it is for good reason, the first thing that most people notice on the Weimaraner hunting dog is the short coat that is usually a silver gray in coloring, although you can also find them in varying shades of gray from mouse gray to blue gray. In addition to their striking coat, which covers an athletic body that is balanced and graceful, the Weimaraner also has unusual eyes that are either amber or light gray to blue gray in color.

But enough about appearance since we already know that the Weimaraner is an unusual breed, that is quiet beautiful, but that is only splitting hairs. Despite their beauty, the Weimaraner is a hard working breed that does exceptionally well in a variety of terrains and hunting a variety of field game. In fact, the Weimaraner is a true “fur and feathers” breed and you can use them to hunt anything from upland fowl to deer.

When the Weimaraner is not at work, you can find yourself in the company of an affectionate dog that loves the attention of their family. They are usually very energetic and this combined with their intelligence makes them a wonderful competitor in a number of dog sports.

They can be a bit difficult to train and are not usually recommended for first time or timid owners. However, if you can get over the training difficulties, you can be left with a dog that is truly spectacular.

Pro’s and con’s of owning a Weimaraner

Like all dog breeds, the Weimaraner has a number of pros and cons and at times, the latter may seem more apparent, however, the best way to approach life with a Weimaraner is simply to accept that this is a special breed. They almost know their own worth and anyone who has seen them in action will realize how truly spectacular this breed is. Once you have worked with a Weimaraner, there is very little chance that you will want another breed.

The Pro’s

The Weimaraner is an interesting breed that has a lot of intelligence and independence, which makes it an ideal field dog. In addition, this is a true “fur and feathers” breed that is happy pursuing any type of quarry.

• Despite the fact that the Weimaraner is used for hunting, this is a breed that is all pet as well. They thrive when they can work in both a hunting and pet capacity and do much better living in the home with their owners.

• They are usually very affectionate and can make excellent family pets, although they are not suitable for young children since they can be overly rambunctious.

• They are an athletic breed that will work hard in the field.

• Weimaraners are low shedding and very easy to groom.

• They are intelligent and able to take commands very well in the field.

• They are generally suspicious of new people but this makes them an excellent watch dog.

• Weimaraners are very beautiful and have an unusual appearance to them.

The Con’s

One thing that should be pointed out about the Weimaraner is that this is not a dog for everyone. They have some traits that make them a difficult breed for an inexperienced owner and it is important to really know yourself before you take on this breed.

• They have a large number of health problems so it is important to find a reputable breeder.

• They suffer from separation anxiety and can be quite destructive when they do.

• They are slower to housebreak than other breeds.

• They can be very energetic and are not the best for apartments, although they can live in them if they are properly exercised.

• Weimaraners are very sensitive dogs and really need ample socialization and proper training to make sure they don’t become aggressive or skittish.

• They are usually a very dominant breed and need firm, but positive training.

• Weimaraners can be difficult to train since they have a very strong will and like to do things their own way.

• Since they are a hunting breed, they do have a fair amount of energy and need to be exercised about 60 minutes per day.

• They are not recommended for homes with smaller pets since they have a strong prey drive.

Health Issues:

The Weimaraner 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 to the health problems, some Weimaraner puppies have been known to experience an autoimmune reaction to vaccines. Although it is impossible to determine which puppy will have this reaction, the risk for it is enough for owners to take special care with vaccinations. The Weimaraner Association of Canada recommends that the Distemper and Parvo vaccines be administered at different times, usually with an interval of two weeks between each vaccine. This has been proven to reduce the risk to the puppies significantly.

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. Some issues that are seen in the Weimaraner are:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia
• Congenital cysts
• Retinal Atrophy
• Factor XI Deficiency
• Hypomyelinogenesis
• Mastocytoma
• Entropion
• Pituitary Dwarfism
• Gastric Torsion or Bloat
• Distichiasis
• Nictitating Membrane Eversion
• Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
• Syringomyelia
• Cryptorchidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Persistent Right Aortic Arch
• Thymic Atrophy
• Umbilical Hernia

Height & Weight:

The Weimaraner is a dog that is refined in appearance and is a medium sized dog that has an athletic build. The breed is known for their grace and speed and their build should reflect the balance and endurance that is found in a dog that is healthy and hard working. They should have a long muzzle with an aristocratic look to it and their body should have a slight slope to it from the withers to the tail stump.

The size of a Weimaraner is:

Males: 24 to 27 inches (61 to 69 cm) tall and 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 32 kg).
Females: 22 to 25 inches (56 to 63 cm) tall and 50 to 65 pounds (23 to 29 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 Weimaraner is a low shedding breed of dog that is actually very easy to groom and requires only the bare minimum when it comes to grooming. Generally, the short coat should be brushed on a weekly basis just to keep it looking sleek and to get rid of any hair that is being shed.

When it comes to bathing a Weimaraner, the breed requires only one or two baths per year and it should only be done when it is absolutely necessary. At any other time, a rub down with a damp towel should keep them clean and their coat in excellent condition.

Other grooming considerations are simply keeping nails trimmed and also trimming any hair that may be found between the toes. Also keep the ears clean and free of any debris or water. Remember, dog breeds that have pendulous ears are more likely to have an ear infection.

Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

History:

The Weimaraner is a fairly young breed of gundog when you actually look at the history of other gundog breeds. They can trace their history back to the 19th century where they were originally known as the Weimar Pointers.

In fact, the Weimaraner can trace their history back to Weimar, which is in Germany, and the nobles who resided there. Being active sportsmen, the Nobles of Weimar wanted to create a dog that could be used to hunt a variety of game so they began breeding a dog that would do this.

Although we are unsure what breeds went into the creation of this breed, we do know that the Weimaraner was created and was originally used to hunt bear and other large game such as deer. Eventually, the Weimaraner was used for birds as well and became known as a “Fur and Feathers” breed that could hunt a number of prey with their handlers.

While they were exceptional dogs, the breed was kept under close control and it was difficult for anyone not associated with the German Weimaraner Club to own or breed one of these silver dogs. In 1928, efforts were made for the Weimaraner to be exported to America but Howard Knight, a New England Sportsman, met a fair amount of opposition by the German Weimaraner Club.

In the end, Howard Knight was able to import the first Weimaraner but, unfortunately, he was only able to import two sterilized dogs. Still, he continued to press the German Weimaraner Club and ten years later, he was rewarded with the purchase of four dogs, three bitches and a male.

From there, Howard Knight created his own pedigree of Weimaraner and went on to form the Weimaraner Club of America in 1942. Despite the struggle to get the Weimaraner into America, they didn’t really catch on. This was a breed that was considered flashy and were often considered as more of a status symbol than a working breed, despite their natural instincts and ability with hunting. Because of this, the breed declined for years in the United States but thankfully it did not disappear since many dedicated breeders kept them going and today they are seeing an increased popularity once again.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

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

Above is the first part of Sam in Pre-training, to get the other 3 free videos click on Gundogs

Right Back To How To Use Your Voice to Train Gundogs
If you look at gundog training in its basic form, then voice seems very important and it also seems like the only way to show a dog what you want it to do. Thankfully, however, that is not usually the case and as most sportsmen and women will know, dogs in the field cannot always hear their handlers, especially if they are working out in front of their handler.

Voice training goes so much farther than simply giving a command and how you use your voice can help you not only train your dog but also build a sustainable bond with him, which will only benefit you when you are out in the field.

When we look at voice training, we are actually looking at the tone of voice. This is something that you should be aware of and you should think in terms of several tones.

• Conversation Tone: I have found that everyone talks to their dogs and will usually use the same tone that they use with adults in a give and take conversation. This is a relaxed tone, the tone that tells the dog that they can relax and don’t have to be on their toes and ready to obey a command. It is important that you train yourself to never use this tone when training or giving a command because it has more of a “maybe” to it and the dog may decide that maybe is good enough and he doesn’t really need to do something.

• Harsh Tone: This is a hard tone for a lot of people to pull off but a harsh tone is not a yelling tone. Actually, yelling does not accomplish anything except negatives. A harsh tone has more growl to it than pitch and it is a tone that you will use to correct the dog’s behaviors. If the puppy is chewing something, a firm growl “No,” with a gentle correction will teach the dog that they are doing something wrong. This is a step in training that can be done very early with a dog and will continue through your dog’s life.

• Command Tone: If you are going to use this tone than you really need to train yourself to follow through on it. This is the strong tone that tells the dog there will be no arguments about things. Commands should be given once and should be delivered in a clear voice that is commanding.

• Praise Tone: When your dog is doing something good, a chipper voice that is filled with pleasure is the perfect way to let your dog know that they are doing something good. It is important to mention that praise should never be bouncy and it shouldn’t make the dog break from a command. If a dog is sitting and holding and you praise him for holding, “Good dog!” it shouldn’t be done in a manner that makes him jump up and break the hold. Instead, he should remain in position and only a small tail wag is evidence that the dog has heard the praise.

• Play Tone: The last tone is the tone that you can lavish praise or play with your dog with and should never be done during a training session. It can be done once training is done and it gives your dog permission to have a little fun after a hard training session.

As you can see, each tone has its set time to use and it can go a long way to training your dog. Not only does it make it clear to your dog what he needs to know but it also alerts your dog to when he needs to focus and when he doesn’t.

If you want to know more on training your Gundogs using your voice or have a new dog to train you may be interested in our weekly video training course which will be starting within the next 3-4 weeks, click here gundog training to register your interest and get 4 pretraining videos for free,

If you have already registered, sorry for the delay we are nearly there

Ron Likes All His Dogs In Kennel's I Kind Of Disagree

Before I begin this blog post today, I just want to start off by saying that there really is no right way or wrong way to house your gun dog. Every breed, dog and owner will have different success and opinions on where a gun dog should be kept but when it comes down to the actual statistics of success, it is usually six to one and half dozen to the other.

Basically, that being said there are a number of breeds that do not thrive in a kennelling situation and you will find that I mention this in all the breed profiles that you will find throughout this site. In addition, every trainer will feel differently about housing issues but regardless of popular opinion, there are many pros and cons to keeping your gundog outside and I would like to address those today.

The Pros of keeping your hunting dog outside:

Like everything, there are always a number of pros that will come into play when you make your decision on housing your hunting dog and it is very important to look at them. Many trainers feel that the pros far outweigh the cons and often feel that housing a gundog inside will not only affect their training but will also destroy any potential to do so. That belief, in itself, is a good reason why you should kennel outside but it isn’t the only reason.

The gundog’s training is more controlled: This is one of the major pros of keeping your gundog in a kennel. When a gundog lives inside there are many bad habits that can occur. First, you are constantly training your dog and sometimes those lessons are very negative.

Since the gundog is given free reign of a house, he is less likely to listen when told to do something such as sit in place. Also, he is more likely to get into things that capitalize on his natural instincts. If he gets into something that would bring a correction, it can inadvertently teach him to ignore his natural hunting instincts.

A dog that is kept in a kennel is not constantly learning or capitalizing on negative behaviors and you can really say when and what he is learning or being trained to do.

The gundog has his own space: Something that is another pro is that the gundog has his own space outside. This is his room where he goes when training is over and he can take a break. It also provides a strong split from work and rest and your dog will know that he is going to be working the minute you open up the kennel door.

The gundog is eager to train: One behavior that most trainers have seen with their hunting dogs is the fact that they are always very eager to train. When their owners come up to the kennel, they know that now is the time to get out and get active. They are very excited to get to work and receive praise for all of their hard work.

In addition, training is a great way to break up some of the boredom the dog will feel in the kennel. This means that training, and hunting, is fun for the dog and he will usually be much easier to handle when you take him out since he is striving for his rewards and for a nice outlet for his energy.

The Cons of keeping your hunting dog outside:

Since I have mentioned the pros of keeping your gundog outside, it is only appropriate that I go over a few of the cons that can occur when you house your gundog outside.

The gundog is not well socialized: Although this is not the case with all kennel raised gundogs, it can be very easily since socializing is often overlooked by all dog owners, regardless of how their dog is used.

A gundog that is kept outside may not have much opportunity to learn about interacting with other people and animals and may become aggressive or timid when they are around anyone other than their owner and trainer.

The gundog may not bond: Again, another thing that may or may not happen but since a gundog is not interacting on a regular basis with their owners; they may not have as strong of a connection to them. If an owner takes the time to interact with his dog several times per day, then this bond will be built but if interaction is minimal, then the bond may not develop and you won’t have a dog that performs to his best potential.

The gundog may have behavioral problems: Remember, a kennel is a dog’s room and if you keep your gundog outside, he may become used to being king of that kennel. This can lead to dominance issues during training and it can also lead to territorial aggression.

In addition, gundogs that are kept outside, especially if it is a breed that is not suited for it, may begin to exhibit separation anxiety and will become destructive, may dig and will often bark, which can be a nuisance to both you and your neighbors. Lastly, the gundog may not housetrain completely and this can be a problem if you need to have him inside for any reason.

Even with the pros and cons, housing your dog is up to the individual owner and trainer and it is possible to utilize both your house and an outdoor kennel so that your gundog is given the best of both worlds with all the advantages.

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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

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If You Missed Part 1 Pleasse Click On The Photo To Go There

Part Two

You may remember a few weeks ago that I already talked about some health problems that you can find in gundog breeds. This is a very common occurrence and while efforts are being made to only use healthy dogs for breeding, there is still a predisposition to problems in every breed, whether they are hardy or not.

If you look back at part one, I discuss some ways to reduce the risk of purchasing a puppy with hereditary health problems. I also went over bone and joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, that affects hundreds of thousands of dogs each year.

In this part, I will be looking at eye problems, which can be a serious problem for gundogs since some gundogs rely on their vision almost as much as they rely on their sense of smell.

Eye and Vision Health Problems:

Primary Cataracts: While cataracts, which are an opaqueness that clouds the eye, are usually attributed with age or some type of trauma to the eye in many dogs, there are some types of cataracts that are actually linked to genetics. What this means is that some breeds are more predisposed to developing cataracts and they can be affected at a very young age with it.

This is very important to realize since many breeds of gundogs are predisposed to having congenital cataracts that can be found in many different pedigrees. It is very important to only choose a puppy from a breeder that has done all of the proper eye examinations with their dogs before breeding.

That being said, cataracts are actually a breakdown in the lens fibers that are found in the eye. When there is a breakdown, there is actually a disruption of those fibers and there is a film begins to form on the eye. This is actually a loss of transparency than an actual film and it impedes the dog’s vision.

While some cataracts are only minor, some can cause a large amount of vision problems, including blindness. In addition, not all cataracts can be seen. Posterior pole cataracts affect the posterior part of the eye and is usually forms an inverted Y that impedes vision.

Like many other types of cataracts, posterior pole cataracts is actually a progressive cataract and may only begin as a slight problem, it can continue to progress until the dog is completely blind.

Treatment of cataracts is usually a surgery where a desiccation of the lens takes place. There is no non-surgical way to treat cataracts and it is important to note that not all cataracts are treatable with surgery.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Progressive Retinal Atrophy is another hereditary eye problem where the risk can be reduced if the breeding dogs are properly tested for the problem.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a degenerative disease that can affect many breeds of gundogs. It can be found at a young age but many dogs are not assessed with the disorder until they are around breeding age, although some have not been diagnosed until much older. Basically, the rods in the eye are affected and begin to degenerate. When it does, the photoreceptors in the back of the dog’s eye begin to deteriorate and the dog may begin to exhibit symptoms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

Because this is a progressive disease, many owners are unaware that their dog is affected by it and will not usually notice the signs right away, which is another reason for yearly eye exams. It usually begins with a small amount of “night-blindness” and can progress until the dog is blind.

Although I do promote eye exams, it is important to note that they are not a failsafe in regards to Progressive Retinal Atrophy. When an eye exam is done, they are only able to determine if the dog has PRA but not if the dog will ever develop it. Currently, there is no genetic test to determine if a dog is a carrier of the hereditary disease but choosing a multi-generational breeder, who has never had Progressive Retinal Atrophy in any of their dogs is a good way to reduce the risk.

There is no known treatment for Progressive Retinal Atrophy but it is not painful for the dogs and since it occurs over a long period of time, the dog is often able to adapt to the vision loss without much problem.

Retinal Dysplasia: Although there are many different types of retinal dysplasia that can affect dogs, they are all a malformation of the retina that can hinder the dog’s ability to see. Usually, retinal dysplasia is when a fold are seen in the retinal tissue. These folds create blind spots in the dog’s vision and the larger the fold, the more severe the blind spot can be.

Retinal dysplasia is an inherited condition but it can also be caused by trauma to the eye, something that can occur quite frequently in gundogs, or an infection within the eye.

It can be very difficult to see symptoms of retinal dysplasia if it is minor but in more severe cases, you will notice that a dog’s range of vision is smaller or that the dog is blind.

Like many other eye problems, there is no treatment for retinal dysplasia.

Ectropion: This is not always a very serious problem in dogs, as compared to other eye problems, but it should be addressed when it happens. Ectropion is when the eyelid, usually the lower, rolls out or sags. This exposes the eye and leaves it open to irritants.

Generally, ectropion is accompanied with other problems such as conjunctivitis, and you will notice that the dog’s eyes are tearing more than normally. It can be hereditary in some breeds but it can also be caused by some trauma to the eye.

If the case is mild, no treatment is necessary but in the event of reoccurring or severe, surgery will be needed to remove a very small piece of the affected lid so it does not reoccur. In addition, treatment will be done for the conjunctivitis if there is any present.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma can be the result of some hereditary problems and are usually seen in dogs that have an abnormal filter in their eye or in dogs that already have problems such as progressive retinal atrophy or cataracts. In addition, Glaucoma can be caused by other factors such as trauma or inflammation in the eye.

Glaucoma is actually a build up of fluid that is found in the eye. In most animals, the fluid, also known as intraocular fluid, is drained out through a filter found in the eye. When a dog has a blockage in the filter or an abnormal filter, then the fluid builds up and places a large amount of pressure on the eye. This pressure leads to the damage of the optic nerve and retina and can result in blindness.

Symptoms of glaucoma can be squinting, rubbing at the eyes and tearing of the eye ducts. If the symptoms are ignored, the pet will begin to lose their vision and it is not possible to restore the damaged vision after treatment so early diagnosis is very important.

Glaucoma is treated through oral and topical medication most of the time; however, some forms of glaucoma require medical surgery and in some severe cases, the eye may need to be removed.

Me with Charlie My english Cocker springer Cross

The Cocker Spaniel is definitely a dog to remember. They have a beautiful appearance with their feathered medium length coat that can be found in buff, black, white, tan, black and tan, parti-colored and merle. They have a very distinct head with a broad jaw and a short tail, which is usually docked to about 2/5th of its original length.

Even with their breathtaking appearance, the Cocker Spaniel should never be considered to be a pampered pup. They work very well in the field and have proven themselves time and again to be an exceptional retriever and game bird dog. In fact, the name Cocker comes from the Cocker Spaniels use in hunting Woodcock.

They are very versatile when it comes to terrain and the Cocker Spaniel has been known to be excel in very difficult terrains that other dogs are not able to work in.

Despite that ability, the Cocker Spaniel is not a hard dog. They are very sweet and have a cheerful disposition that they are willing to share with everyone. They usually trust everyone and are as accepting of strangers as they are with people they know. They do well with children of all ages but do require gentle handling since they can be a bit timid.

They also require ample socialization since Cocker Spaniels can suffer from fearfulness, which can lead to problems such as biting, submissive urination and dominance problems. It is also important that they not be treated like a pampered pet since they will have problems such as separation anxiety that makes life difficult for all. It is very important that there are clear rules and roles established with a Cocker Spaniel to ensure the best success with it.

If you do train it properly, you will find that the Cocker Spaniel is an excellent retrieving breed that has a wonderfully soft mouth.

Pro’s and con’s of owning a Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is an excellent hunting dog and does an excellent job as a retriever since they have a very soft mouth. In addition, the Cocker Spaniel has a very sweet temperament that makes them an ideal companion and family dog. There are many traits that make these dogs a wonderful addition to any family but there are also many traits that are a definite con for the breed. It is important that you understand the Cocker Spaniel completely before you purchase one and that you understand your own experiences with dogs first since they are not recommended for first time dog owners.

The Pro’s

Like all dog breed, there are a number of pros when you look at a Cocker Spaniel.

• They are very friendly dogs that usually get along with everyone. They are even polite with strangers.
• They do well in most homes and can live in apartments without too much difficulty.
• Cocker Spaniels are energetic but they only need a small amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
• They are not known for their aggression and can do well in a home with multiple pets.
• They are usually eager to please, which makes them easier to train than some other breeds.

The Con’s

Again, although the Cocker Spaniel is a beautiful dog that has the diversity of being at home both in the field and with their family, there are a number of cons that potential owners should take into consideration before they purchase a Cocker Spaniel puppy.

• They do have a number of serious health problems but if you purchase them from a reputable breeder, the risk of those problems should be decreased.
• Cocker Spaniels thrive when they are with their family and will often suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods at a time.
• They can be problem barkers, especially if they are not trained or socialized properly.
• They can be a bit timid and without proper socialization, they can become very fearful. This can lead to a problem called submission urination where they urinate when they are scared or excited.
• Cocker Spaniels are average shedders and will produce a fair amount of hair, especially when they are “blowing” their coat. In addition, the Cocker Spaniel has a very unique scent that comes off their skin.
• They require daily grooming to keep them in top condition.
• It can take a fair amount of time to properly housetrain a Cocker Spaniel puppy.

Health Issues:

While the Cocker Spaniel does not have as many health concerns as other breeds, there are a number of illnesses that can affect the breed. 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. Some issues that are seen in the Cocker Spaniel are:

• Deafness
• Seborrhea
• Hypothyroidism
• Allergies
• Hepatitis
• Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Height & Weight:

The Cocker Spaniel is a small sized breed of gun dog and has the unique privilege of being the smallest of all sporting breeds registered with the American Kennel Club. Despite being so small, the Cocker Spaniel should have compact body that is very sturdy and athletic. They should have good balance and they should have a good balance. The Cocker Spaniel is another gundog that has a very strong head that is refined and clean in lines. They should have a square body that is as long as it is tall.

The size of a Cocker Spaniel is:

Males: 15 to 15.5 inches (38 to 39 cm) tall
Females: 14 to 14.5 inches (36 to 37 cm) tall

Both Males and Females range in weight from 15 to 30 pounds (7 to 14 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:

Cocker Spaniels are considered to be an average shedder and does require a bit of grooming if you are to keep their silky coat clean and beautiful. Generally, the Cocker Spaniel should be brushed on a daily basis, if you keep the hair long. Many hunters and owners prefer to keep the hair short or at a medium length and will clip or shave the dog’s coat down.

In addition to the daily brushing, the Cocker Spaniel does require frequent baths. Usually about one or two a month will keep the Cocker Spaniel clean and the coat healthy. When you work a Cocker Spaniel in the field, it is important to make sure that you clean all debris from the coat to make sure that no mats occur.

The ears of the Cocker Spaniel should be kept free of dirt and debris and should be dried after the dog is wet since they can be prone to ear infections. The only other care that the Cocker Spaniel needs is to have their nails trimmed.

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

History:

When we look at the history of the Cocker Spaniel, we should actually take the time to look at spaniels in general. Although it is unclear as to how the spaniel came to be, we do know that there were spaniel dogs as early as the 1300’s but it is believed that they may stretch back to about 55 B.C.

Although the actual origin of the spaniel is not clear, it is assumed that they were developed in Spain before they began to spread across the globe. In the early 1800’s the spaniel had seen a lot of progress in England and there were seven different breeds of spaniel. Most of the breeds were determined and bred according to how they flushed birds or how they were used for hunting.

Of the seven breeds, the Cocker Spaniel was one of them and was used to retrieve game birds, and more specifically, woodcocks, which is where the name originated. Generally, the Cocker Spaniel was used with the Springer Spaniel and both dogs brought a unique team together for the hunter. In addition, the Cocker Spaniel was admired for their good nature and ability to handle even the toughest of terrains, which made it a popular hunting breed.

At one time, both the Cocker and Springer Spaniels were considered one breed, with size being the only variable, but in 1892, the Kennel Club of England deemed that they should be separate breeds instead and the English Cocker Spaniel was created.

When the Cocker Spaniel was imported to North America, many breeders chose to breed the smaller puppies, producing a smaller breed than then the English Cocker Spaniel. In the 1940’s, the American Kennel Club determined that there was enough difference between the smaller Cocker Spaniel and their European relatives that they should be a separate breed. It was at that time that the American Cocker Spaniel came to be.

Grouping:

Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Recognition:

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

For More Cocker Spaniel Info Go To American Spaniel Club