So far we have taken a look at the sleek pointers and setters and their ability to cover large amounts of ground for the dedicated upland bird hunter. In addition we have covered the muscular retrievers and the sheer dedication to fetching downed game. Last but surely not least we take a look at the breeds that are perfect for the weekend bird hunter as well as the die-hard upland gunner. They ideal for the hunter with limited space who would like a jogging partner as well as hunting buddy. We now look at the flushing breeds, mainly the spaniels.
Technically the retrievers are grouped as flushers, but when you think of a flusher, the picture of the flowing coat and stubby tail of a spaniel comes to mind. They are compact and full of energy and thoroughly enjoy a foray into the fields in search of birds.
It seems that every dog comes with some unwarranted baggage. Many will tell you that the spaniels are temperamental and not the most ideal dog to have around children. While there may be cases of individual dogs, the breed as a whole is a very friendly dog and given the proper training and environment they are fantastic family dogs. Part of the misconception comes from the energy level of the dog. Like all hunting dogs, the spaniel has energy to spare. If the dog is confined for extended periods, he or she will become wound up or cagey. With nowhere to burn off this energy the dog turns into destructive behavior.
There are many types of spaniels to choose from to match your hunting and family tastes. Arguably the most popular spaniel is the Springer. Actually there are different varieties of Springers. In the field you most often encounter the English Springer. One of the larger spaniels, these dogs are phenomenal in the pursuit of pheasants. They cover ground well, have excellent noses and will go into some of the nastiest brush to get the birds into flight. They mark the fall well and are ready, willing and able to make picture perfect retrieves to their proud owner. The Welsh Springer looks a lot like the English, but is considerably smaller. They are perfect for the hunter with a small yard, but don’t let their delicate appearance fool you, they need the same amount of energy and desire as their bigger cousins.
Probably the second most popular is the Brittany. A little more slender than the Springer they are equally as good in the pheasant field as they are flushing grouse in the river bottoms or upper elevation berry fields. While these two may the most popular there are many other breeds. The English and American Cocker were once fine hunting dogs, but many have had their hunting genetics bred out in favor of show qualities. If you can find a reputable breeder of hunting stock, they will still be a fine friend in the field. The easygoing gentle giant of the breed is the Clumber Spaniel. While they still have the desire and physical appearance of the others, the Clumber is much wider than their slender cousins. These dogs are probably the best spaniels for the weekend hunter that wants a hunting dog along with a family friend.
Granted the spaniels while excellent retrievers, are not the most common dogs in the duck blind. Their low body fat and silky hair does not provide the best insulation when hunting in the cold waters of Puget Sound or the potholes on the east side. Of course there are exceptions. The Irish Water Spaniel has the most distinctive coat of any spaniel. Instead of the long, flowing coat, they have wiry, dense, water shedding coat. They will make some of the toughest retrieves under the harshest conditions with the best of the retrieving breeds. Beware; this breed is not popular in the States so it will take some work to find a quality hunter.
Like the Golden Retriever, the Spaniels coat can a burden if not taken care of. The long hair attracts burrs and tangles that if not removed can cause large mats and considerable discomfort for the dog. Also because of the coat, take caution when working your dog in hilly country or warm weather. Bring adequate water for your dog.
If you are only a weekend bird hunter with a smattering of waterfowl, and you do not have a large acreage to keep your dog, then take a long look at one of the spaniels. If you do, you will be rewarded with a dedicated hunting partner and a friend that will love play with the kids.
