Quick Answer
A good upland game bird dog is one that possesses natural instincts, excellent nose, strong legs, and a willingness to work in dense cover. It should be able to range far ahead of its handler, pinpoint the bird's location, and then indicate its presence. A good upland game bird dog should also be able to handle the physical demands of hunting in rugged terrain.
Natural Ability and Instinct
A good upland game bird dog should have a natural ability to follow a scent trail, which is essential for upland hunting. A good rule of thumb is to look for dogs with a strong prey drive, as this often translates to a strong instinct to follow a scent trail. You can test a dog’s natural ability by placing a bird or a strong scent article in an open area and seeing if they can locate it.
Training and Conditioning
Proper training and conditioning are crucial for an upland game bird dog. Start by teaching your dog basic obedience commands, such as ‘whoa’ and ‘here’, and then gradually introduce them to the concept of scent work. For conditioning, aim to do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, and include hill sprints, fetch, and scent work to simulate the physical demands of upland hunting.
Physical Characteristics and Health
A good upland game bird dog should have a sturdy build, strong legs, and a dense coat to withstand the rigors of hunting in dense cover. Look for dogs with a weight range of 30-60 pounds, depending on the breed, and aim for a dog that can easily clear 6-8 foot tall obstacles with ease. Additionally, ensure your dog is healthy and free of any genetic disorders that could impact their hunting ability.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.