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If you're looking for a golden retriever hunting dog breeder, start by researching their reputation and experience in breeding hunting dogs. A reputable breeder will have a good understanding of the breed's temperament and abilities.
Look for breeders who have experience with hunting dogs and can provide references from satisfied customers. In fact, some breeders have been breeding golden retrievers for over 20 years and have a proven track record of producing hunting dogs that excel in the field.
Consider visiting the breeder's facility to see the dogs in person and meet the breeder themselves. This will give you a sense of the breeder's commitment to the breed and their dogs' well-being.
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Golden Retriever Hunting Breeders
Golden Retrievers are water-loving swimmers who shine in the duck blind and can easily work an upland field. They retrieve naturally but will require shaping to perfect their bird retrieve to hand.
Their high energy levels keep them engaged in any field of work, making them a versatile hunting companion. Golden Retrievers are generally easy to train due to their eager-to-please ways.
Slater Creek Golden Retrievers breeds and raises Golden Retrievers in Colorado, working hard to ensure their puppies are as healthy as possible so they can go on to become great hunting dogs and companions.
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Quality Puppies for Hunting
If you're looking for quality puppies for hunting, it's essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the breed's original purpose. Webshire Kennels, for example, has been producing top-quality golden retrievers and labradors for over 30 years, with a focus on breeding dogs that conform to the breed standard in every way.
Their goal is to produce good-looking, solid working, healthy, intelligent dogs that excel in various canine sports, including AKC hunt tests, field trials, and obedience trials. This level of expertise is crucial when selecting a puppy for hunting.
A good breeder will put equal importance on the female dogs as they do on the male dogs, as seen in Webshire Kennels' approach. This balance in looks, trainability, and temperament is vital when deciding on the right dogs for breeding.
Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and have a strong sense of smell, making them exceptional hunting dogs. They can track down birds no matter how far away they are, and their intelligence allows them to figure out shortcuts and solve puzzles while out hunting.
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Field-bred Golden Retrievers are a great option for hunters, as they are more likely to pick up on training and have a knack for retrieving birds. Reputable breeders like Sunnyside Meadows focus on breeding highly intelligent and trainable dogs that excel in the field.
If you're looking for a hunting companion that will be happy to come along with you wherever you end up, a Golden Retriever is an excellent choice. They retrieve naturally but will require shaping to perfect their bird retrieve to hand.
Golden Retrievers have a sunny temperament, but they're a bit more sensitive than typical labrador retrievers. However, they're generally easy to train due to their eager-to-please ways, and their high energy levels keep them engaged in any field of work.
The hunting-bred Golden does tend to be more intense than other lines within the breed, but this serves an important purpose in order to retrieve without hesitation. With the right training and socialization, a Golden Retriever can become a loyal and skilled hunting companion.
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Field Retriever Size
Field Retrievers are a bit smaller than their standard counterparts, and this size difference is noticeable. Males average 21-23 inches in height, while females are slightly shorter at 21-22 inches.
The weight difference between Field Goldens and standard Goldens is also worth noting. Field Golden males typically weigh between 60 and 70 pounds, while females weigh between 50 and 65 pounds.
To give you a better idea of the size difference, here's a comparison of the weights of Field Goldens and standard Goldens:
Do Field Goldens Have Different Coats?
Field Goldens have a distinct coat compared to Regular Goldens. Their coat is slightly shorter, giving them a sleek look that showcases more red than blonde in their color.
This shorter hair makes their coat easier to care for and groom. It also results in less shedding, a big plus for many dog owners.
Their unique coat is one of the reasons Field Goldens are a popular choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Golden Retriever Characteristics
Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent dogs, making them exceptional hunting companions. They can keep track of where a bird is going and figure out ways to reach it even in tough terrains.
Their intelligence also allows them to exert the exact right amount of pressure on birds when retrieving them, a skill known as "soft mouthing". However, they need a bit of training to develop this skill.
Golden Retrievers are bred to retrieve small game, making them perfectly suited for hunting sports. They have strong jaws and bites, but they're capable of gentle retrieval if trained correctly.
Their intelligence and trainability make Golden Retrievers highly receptive to training, setting them apart from other breeds. They can learn to take shortcuts and navigate challenging terrain with ease.
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Choosing a Golden Retriever
If you're looking for a hunting companion, you'll want to find a reputable breeder that's field-bred.
Goldens bred for hunting are more likely to pick up on training and have a knack for retrieving birds on their first time out.
Don't be afraid to ask the breeder for information on their lineage, health history, and screenings from the parents and litter.
Choosing a Dog
Choosing a Golden Retriever can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you'll be well on your way to finding your perfect companion. If you're hoping to purchase a Golden for hunting, it's essential to find a reputable breeder that's field-bred.
Many Golden Retrievers are now bred more for companionship than for hunting, so it's crucial to find a breeder that prioritizes hunting lineage. Don't be afraid to ask the breeder about their breeding program and the health history of the parents and litter.
A dog bred for hunting will be more likely to pick up on training and have a knack for retrieving birds, especially on your first time out. With the right training and socialization, a Golden Retriever can become a loyal and loving companion for years to come.
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Field-Bred vs. Show-Bred
Field-Bred vs. Show-Bred Golden Retrievers are two distinct types, each with its own unique characteristics and needs. Field-Bred Golden Retrievers are bred for their athletic ability and shorter, denser coat, making them ideal for hunting in wet or cold conditions.
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Golden Retrievers are at risk for several health issues, including elbow and hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, and heart diseases. These health problems can arise from poor breeding practices and diluted lines.
Field-Bred Golden Retrievers are bred for their compact, athletic form, and are often used for hunting. Show-Bred lines, on the other hand, prioritize a luxurious and beautiful flat coat.
If you're considering a Field-Bred Golden Retriever, be sure to interview a reputable breeder and ask about their lines, genetics, and health certifications. This will help ensure you're getting a healthy puppy with a good hunting background.
You can expect to pay a premium for a Field-Bred Golden Retriever, with prices ranging from $800 to over $2,000. This investment can pay off in the long run, as Field-Bred Golden Retrievers are bred for their health and hunting ability.
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Golden Retriever Types
Field Golden Retrievers are slightly smaller than standard Golden Retrievers, with males averaging 21-23 inches in height.
Their weight is also noticeable different, with Field Golden males typically weighing between 60 and 70 pounds.
Standard Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, are slightly larger, with an average weight of 65-75 pounds for males.
Here's a comparison of the average weights for Field Golden and Standard Golden Retrievers:
This size difference is worth considering if you're deciding between a Field Golden and a Standard Golden Retriever.
Why Golden Retrievers Are Good Hunting Dogs
Golden Retrievers are naturally talented hunting dogs, bred to retrieve birds in water and on land with ease. Their water-loving nature makes them shine in the duck blind.
Their intelligence allows them to follow commands easily, and their strong, muscular build enables them to run on rough terrain for hours. Their high energy levels keep them engaged in any field of work.
Golden Retrievers are generally easy to train due to their eager-to-please ways. They're a bit more sensitive than typical Labrador Retrievers, but this doesn't hinder their ability to learn.
Their double-coated coat makes them great swimmers, and their sense of smell is top-notch. This combination of traits makes them a valuable asset in the hunting field.
The hunting-bred Golden Retriever tends to be more intense than other lines within the breed, which serves a purpose in the field. This intensity helps them retrieve without hesitation.
Goldens are versatile hunting companions who will come along with you wherever you end up. They're happy to adapt to different hunting styles and terrain.
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Sources
- https://www.webshirekennels.com/our-dogs/
- https://slatercreekgoldenretrievers.com/dog-types/working-retrievers/hunting-dogs/
- https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/are-golden-retrievers-good-hunting-dogs
- https://gearjunkie.com/outdoor/hunt-fish/hunting-dog-golden-retriever
- https://getapuppy.com/dogs/breeds/field-golden-retrievers/
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