The Sporting Dog Group

The Sporting Dog Group

The first 2 categories of dog divisions were the Sporting and Non-Sporting groups. Today, there are many more, yet the Sporting Group still remains. The Sporting Group contains the dogs who accompany their hunter-owners into the field. They are made to find birds and other game. They then point to the position of the bird or small animal, freezing in place. Alternative, a sporting dog will flush the creature out from the brush. The owner fires a shot, shoots an arrow or uses some means to wound or kill the prey. The Sporting dog then retrieves the creature from wherever it has fallen - water, land or swamp.

Characteristics

Overall, the size, shape and color vary in this group. They are not identical clones. Physically there is a variation of coat types, colors and physical attributes. Mentally and in terms of demands, however, the Sporting group has certain important commonalities.

- They are very active dogs. While you may never wish to hunt with them, you will need to make sure they are exercised thoroughly. Sporting canines require plenty of vigorous exercise to keep them relaxed, happy, content and tired out.

- Their energy level, if not the size of the larger animals, prohibits their living with you in a small apartment.

- They are great companions.

- Sporting dogs can be sociable and good-natured companions if you take the time to train them.

- Many of the breeds are high-maintenance. This does not apply only to exercise but to grooming requirements.

Breed-Associated Health Problems And Other Issues

There are a number of health problems associated with the Sporting Group of dogs. It does not mean your good sport will be affected. It does, however, mean you should check into the background of a sporting dog. Be sure to talk to breeders and vets about any possible health issues that may affect your dog of dog-to-be.

- Dysplasia - This is common among several breeds in the Sporting Group. Dysplasia affects both the hip and the elbows of this category of canine.

- Hypothyroidism - This means the dog’s thyroid does not produce enough hormones. It is easily corrected through the right medication. Prone to this particular problem are Golden Retrievers.

- Eye Problems - Many sporting dogs have eye problems later in life. Cocker Spaniels are affected by this.

- High energy - This is great if you are afflicted with the same nature. It may not be so great if you are a couch potato or only suffer fits of exercise mania. The excess of energy may also make it hard on the toddler and small child set.

Grooming Needs

The members of the Sporting Group require grooming. Some dogs need it more than others. Some, such as Labrador Retrievers, require only a weekly brushing. The Golden sheds more. If you want to keep this under control, you will have to brush it more than once a week.

High maintenance in grooming belongs to the Spaniels, and a few Setters of this group. Their coats demand frequent brushing and trimming. If you fail to meet the requirements, your dog will not look at its best. It may also be uncomfortable.

Specific Breeds of Sporting Dogs

You can find dogs weighing from 20 to 60 pounds in the Sporting Group.

Among the members of this breed, you will find the following breed of dogs:

- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Curly-coated Retriever
- Golden Labrador Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Gordon Setter
- Irish Setter
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Brittany Spaniel
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