Thinking about hunting dogs...

[Atroxus]

My wife wants to get a dog, and I am toying with the idea of getting a puppy that I can train for hunting. My problem is I don't even know if I would enjoy hunting with dogs. So before I go spending a bunch of time/money buying and training a dog I figured I would post here to see if anyone with hunting dog(s) would be willing to take me hunting for birds or raccoons so I can find out if it's something I would enjoy.

I am 38 but I am a new hunter, last year was my first year hunting.(tried for deer and elk) I am in western Washington about 40 miles north of Seattle, but would be willing to drive up to 4 hours to meet up for hunting.

[Happy Gilmore]

If you're not very interested in a dog, you probably won't enjoy owning one...just my thoughts. I don't know how it could be possible but, not everybody likes dogs?

[huntnfmly]

You will love hunting with dogs to me thats the part i like most is watching the dogs work.Its been awhile since we had a hunting dog and just got a springer we are working with.One thing i would suggest is go to a hunting club like cook canyon that have trained dogs whos owners will guide you with their dogs and you will get an idea what it is like with a trained dog.Because there will be times you get frusterated while traing your dog and going out with someone and their trained dog will show you that it is very much worth it

[Atroxus]

If you're not very interested in a dog, you probably won't enjoy owning one...just my thoughts. I don't know how it could be possible but, not everybody likes dogs?

I love dogs, and will be getting a dog some time within the next year. I just don't know if I would enjoy hunting with them or not. If I do then I will try to find/buy a dog that is readily trainable for hunting. If I don't then I will probably just adopt a friendly dog from a local shelter.

[gasman]

To learning to train my lab and train him made us better friends.
Taking him hunting, hiking, camping, boat ride, etc...There is never a dull moment......

Training my own dog gave us a bigger bond then I think I would ever had with him. From duck to phesant, he keeps me entertained. He's still a big dumb animal.

[Machias]

Your more than welcome to come raccoon hunting with me next fall.   

[Happy Gilmore]

If you're not very interested in a dog, you probably won't enjoy owning one...just my thoughts. I don't know how it could be possible but, not everybody likes dogs?

I love dogs, and will be getting a dog some time within the next year. I just don't know if I would enjoy hunting with them or not. If I do then I will try to find/buy a dog that is readily trainable for hunting. If I don't then I will probably just adopt a friendly dog from a local shelter.

My feeling is that watching a dog hunting is amazing. Even though I am a retriever guy, watching pointers work is a thing of beauty.....especially a very well trained pointer-

[RC3]

just remember long after the excitement of a "new" dog is gone the dog will still be there.  Its a long and expensive commitment just make sure its what you really want.  Me personally I wouldn't even hunt birds if it wasn't for the dog I only hunt to watch my dog, but thats just me.

[huntnfmly]

 

[singleshot12]

  x 2

[Rowdy]

My pup is my first bird dog, I'm 36.  It's been one of the best decisions I've ever made, for several reasons.  As long as you're prepared for the commitment of owning a dog, I don't know why you wouldn't get a hunting dog.  My Shorthair is my best bud and hunting partner.  I've never had a bond with any of my other "pet" dogs like I do with him.  All the training and hunting I've done with him has made for a very strong bond. 

Hunting dogs need more exercise so that is something that needs to be considered.
A trained hunting dog usually equals a better behaved dog and everyone appreciates a well behaved dog. 

I live in Seattle and train somewhat frequently in the off season.  If you want to tag along let me know. 

Jake

[rtspring]

I have trained two labs, one golden and one balck lab, chessy mix. Both were pups when I got them.
I startem them really young and they tested my paitence more than once!!  You must have paitence with a bird dog, they will make mistakes and you cannot be to rough on them. Treat it like a game and in the end they will be your best friend.

My chessy/lab mix hated water when she was a pup but after time and time again of getting her used to the water, she fell in love with it.......

it take alot of time and i for one am no pro at teachng but the basics ain't that hard then go from there and next thing you know you got a bird dog.

one thing I did learn is I will not hunt my dog with any others, it just don't work well. I take my dog or use the friends dog..........

[singleshot12]

Knowing and understanding dog psychology and age expectations through their developing years,have time each day for play and training, having patience, and never beat a dog. If a person can't do this then I would highly reconmend NOT having a dog. Spare yourself and the dog the trouble.

You treat them right they will treat you right and make you proud. They are just like kids they need responsible people to raise them right. You definitely get back what you put into them.

I would also reconmend reading several books on raising and training if a rookie. Dogs deserve the best and with a little common sense and knowledge should to be treated right.

[Rhinoron247]

There is nothing like hunting over a dog. Except when you have trained that dog and have a bond like not other with that animal.  I had an English settler when was in High school and them not again till I was 38.  Now I have three of them and looking for a 4th.   I also rarely bird hunted until I got a setter again and now over the last 5-6 years I rarely miss a week.   

Make sure you get a dog that compliments your temperament.  I found I did not have the patience for a Lab or the energy for GSP or Britney.  I do however, gel 100% with the English setter. 

If your a safe hunter and want to experience a great hunt over great dogs you welcome to come along in the fall. PM me.