· By Minou Tpain
Author: Denise Partlow
Instagram: @modernk9 Carolinas
Breeds in the Sporting group (also known as Gun Dogs) are naturally active, alert and intelligent. Most are quite friendly, (making it more likely for them to jump on people) and do not know a stranger therefore they may not make a good guard dog but they make great companions with their docile temperaments, they are easy to train, highly biddable, love to work and be with their people and thrive on being challenged mentally and physically. They have been known to keep their juvenile characteristics of being playful, enthusiastic, devoted, loyal and affectionate, making them a perfect family dog. Because they are so active, they would not do well with an inactive family.
Some of the breeds in this working group are:
Boykin Spaniel
Bracco Italiano
Brittany
Cocker Spaniel
Golden Retriever
German Shorthaired Pointer
Gordon Setter
Irish Water Spaniel
Labrador Retriever
Lagotto Romagnolo
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Spinone Italiano
Vizsla
Weimaraner
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
There are four basic types of Sporting dogs; spaniels, pointers, retrievers and setters. They were bred to assist hunters in the retrieval of game and so they typically love hunting & field activities. Due to the genetic ability to retrieve, they often lack impulse control but can easily obtain it with some training.
Some of the dogs in this group were bred to retrieve waterfowl, so you will have dogs that love the water just as much as they love dry land.
Dogs in the Sporting group must be challenged mentally and physically on a daily basis. They need just as much direction as any other working breed. They are highly human cooperative and can often be a little needy therefore providing them with appropriate structure and a predictable routine is a must.
This is not a full list of characteristics and may not apply to every dog.
