Sporting Dog Breeds
AKC Dog Breeds In This Group

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Dogs from the sporting dog breeds in addition to their use in hunting waterfowl and game birds, are very popular companion dogs. Although often referred to as "gun dogs" the dogs from this group were used in relation to hunting long before guns were invented. They are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Locating the game is mainly the role of pointers and setters in the hunting dog breeds. Once located, pointers will on command flush out the game causing them to fly up into the air.

Setters on the other hand, "set" down or lie low in front of discovered game to reveal their location to the hunter as well as prevent their escape.

It is mostly the larger, stronger dogs in this group that take care of the retrieving once the game has fallen to the ground. With their excellent sense of smell, they have no trouble locating the game in all kinds of terrain. Their webbed feet and waterproof coat make them also very effective retrievers in the water.

The Spaniels in this group also have keen scenting abilities. They work well in areas that are swampy and in dense bushy terrain. They are capable of flushing and retrieving and some have been developed to excel around water. They also have excellent stamina.

Sporting dog breeds are of high energy and stamina. They love the outdoors and will be very grateful if you give them plenty of vigorous exercise.