AKC sporting dog breeds

AKC Sporting - description

The Sporting Group consists of Retrievers, Setters, Pointers and Spaniels. These Breeds are widely known for being both mentally and physically on-point. Many were originally developed for use as bird dogs. Strong points include a high level of intelligence and an inherent natural love for running and swimming. Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, well-rounded companions, since they were developed to work with human beings. Remarkable for their instincts in water and woods, many of these breeds actively continue to participate in hunting and other field activities. Potential owners of Sporting dogs need to realize that most require regular, invigorating exercise.

Two types of sporting dogs, the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever, always rank highly in the American Kennel Club’s top 10 list of dog breeds.

Each breed of sporting dog was developed for a specific type of hunting assistance. Retrievers do just that -- bring game back to the hunter. Pointers and setters were bred to work a field, finding game by scent and freezing in place, or point, to indicate to the hunter where the birds are located. Versatile hunting dogs like the Vizsla and Weimaraner find, point, and retrieve birds, making them a jack-of-all-trades

Sporting dogs differ in size, looks and energy levels; although, most of them tend to have extra energy to burn. Many people don’t realize that the cocker spaniel breed was developed as a hunting breed. These days far more cockers are pets than hunting companions, due to their smaller size and merry nature. Also in the smaller size range of sporting dogs are:

None of the sporting breeds are giants, since it takes a lot of energy and stamina to work in the field all day. Besides the more commonly known medium-sized labs, retrievers, and setters, there is:

Because sporting dogs are active, it is important to purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder, who health tests all breeding stock. Canine Hip Dysplasia, a condition where the hip joints don’t fit properly in their sockets, is a concern, since it causes the dog pain and requires painful and expensive surgery to treat. All prospective owners of a sporting dog should research breeders by looking at the American Kennel Club website or by asking for breeder recommendations from the national breed club of the type of dog they are interested in purchasing. Breed specific rescue groups are also an excellent place to find a new addition to the family. Although wildly popular, Labradors and Retrievers are not the perfect pet for everyone, and there are many wonderful dogs available through local breed rescue organizations

To discover more about specific breeds of Hound Dogs, their origins, history, temperaments and other characteristics please follow one of the links below: