Did I say you might select from field trial or hunt test stock? You bet. I know the majority of you reading this are primarily hunters and may not be interested in sporting dog contests, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look to those bloodlines for a puppy. Please don’t get caught up in the stereotype of every “run-off son of a gun” being attributed to “field trial stock.” It simply isn’t true…in fact, those same “run-off, self-serving bums” have no place in trials or hunt tests, either.

Let’s talk a little about that very subject. Sporting dog contests, be they field trials or hunt tests, are structured to allow dogs a setting in which to demonstrate their inborn abilities along with how well they accept and advance in training as team players with their handlers in various simulated hunting scenarios. Granted, a high-end, all-age bird dog must show independence and confidence in hunting forward, but definitely not all on his own.

Similarly, in walking trials and hunt tests, the key aspects are handling, cooperation and obedience. So, folks, please understand that the greedy, self-serving, uncooperative, disobedient dog doesn’t finish, and don’t be afraid to go to those bloodlines. In fact, I recommend you go there.

Choosing from these ranks comes with additional benefits. Through standards set by most sanctioning bodies, you’re likely to find parents and grandparents with hip certification and other health evaluations, certified DNA, plus records of success, titles, access to scoring of key attributes, etc… all evidence of the dogs’ bird-finding ability, trainability and endurance…again, markedly increasing your odds of selecting the right litter from which to chose your new puppy.

Now let’s fast-forward to the point where you’re satisfied you’ve found the correct litter. You also need to decide whether you want a male or female. Forget all the macho nonsense; females hunt every bit as hard as males. Your only real concern here is dealing with a female’s heat cycles or having her spayed.

It’s best if you can visit the litter once or twice before actually bringing your puppy home. You might rule out the biggest and smallest of the sex you decided on, then take the remaining pups out alone so you can play with them to get a feel for one or two you seem to connect with. From there you can hold them upside down if you wish, play with a wing, or whatever…or you can just close your eyes and grab.

The point is, the odds are already in your favor because you’ve done the research, selected a breed and type you like and even a family group you feel you’ll enjoy working with. So happy days are ahead…go for it!

And, oh yes, one last reminder. You’ve worked hard to find the right puppy, so please remember how crucial proper socialization and the basics of training are to help your charge reach his or her inherited potential.