Understanding Upland Hunting Dog Categories

Upland dogs generally fall into two main groups—with several subtypes:

1. Pointing Breeds

These dogs locate birds and “freeze” on point until the hunter moves in to flush.

2. Flushing Breeds

These dogs push birds into the air at close range and often retrieve downed birds.

3. Versatile Breeds

Dogs that point, retrieve, trail, and work in multiple upland and waterfowl scenarios.

Knowing your preferred hunting style and terrain helps narrow your choices.

Best Pointing Breeds for Upland Game Birds

1. German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP)

One of today’s most popular upland breeds.

Strengths:

• High drive and stamina

• Excellent pointing and retrieving

• Versatile in multiple habitats

• Works well for pheasant, quail, chukar, grouse

Ideal For:
Hunters who cover lots of ground and want an all-in-one upland dog.

2. English Pointer

Built for heat, speed, and long-range searching.

Strengths:

• Exceptional bird-finding ability

• Long-range, stylish points

• Great for open country and wild quail

Ideal For:
Hunters pursuing covey birds in wide-open terrain.

3. English Setter

A classic upland breed with a soft, controlled hunting style.

Strengths:

• Elegant, slow-to-medium pace

• Outstanding in thick grouse and woodcock cover

• Naturally gentle disposition

Ideal For:
Grouse and woodcock hunters who value finesse.

4. Brittany

Compact, energetic, and highly trainable.

Strengths:

• Points and retrieves naturally

• Medium-range worker

• Excellent for mixed upland species

Ideal For:
Hunters who want a small-to-medium pointing dog that can do it all.

Best Flushing Breeds for Upland Game Birds

1. Labrador Retriever

The classic waterfowl dog also excels in upland fields.

Strengths:

• Strong flushing and retrieving

• Great nose for tracking running roosters

• Calm, family-friendly temperament

Ideal For:
Pheasant hunters and mixed-field hunters needing a reliable flusher/retriever.

2. English Springer Spaniel

Arguably the most active and explosive flushing dog.

Strengths:

• Rapid, energetic flushing

• Excellent close-range control

• Strong retriever across cover

Ideal For:
Hunters who want fast flushes and lots of energy in rough cover.

3. English Cocker Spaniel

Small but fierce in the field.

Strengths:

• Outstanding drive in dense cover

• Works extremely close

• Excellent for woodcock, grouse, and pheasants

Ideal For:
Hunters who prefer small, compact flushing dogs with high enthusiasm.

Best Versatile Breeds for Mixed Hunting

1. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

A rugged, all-terrain bird dog.

Strengths:

• Reliable pointing and retrieving

• Works well in cold, wet environments

• Great stamina for long hunts

Ideal For:
Hunters in northern climates or mixed upland-waterfowl situations.

2. German Wirehaired Pointer

A more intense and driven cousin of the Griffon.

Strengths:

• Excellent scenting ability

• Strong retrieving and tracking

• Works well in heavy cover

Ideal For:
Hunters who chase pheasants, chukar, and big-running upland birds.

3. Vizsla

A high-energy pointing breed known for warmth and companionship.

Strengths:

• Close-to-medium range

• Great for quail, grouse, and prairie birds

• Strong bond with owners

Ideal For:
Hunters who want a versatile, affectionate pointing dog.

4. Weimaraner

Athletic and capable in tough country.

Strengths:

• Fast, strong, and high-stamina

• Works big country well

• Good pointer and retriever

Ideal For:
Hunters who cover miles and want a powerful, endurance-driven dog.

How to Choose the Right Dog for Your Hunting Style

1. Match the Dog’s Range to Your Hunting Grounds

• Open country: English Pointers, GSPs, Weimaraners

• Dense forests: Setters, Springers, Cockers

• Mixed terrain: Brittanys, Labs, Griffons

2. Consider Your Preferred Birds

• Grouse/Woodcock: English Setter, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel

• Pheasant: Labs, Springers, German Wirehairs

• Quail/Chukar: GSP, English Pointer, Brittany

• Mixed hunts: Griffons, Labs, GSPs

3. Evaluate Your Lifestyle

High-drive dogs need daily exercise and engagement.
If you want a calmer house dog, consider:

• Brittany

• English Setter

• Labrador Retriever

• Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

4. Think About Training Experience

Some breeds are easier for beginners (Labs, Brittanys, Setters).
Others require a firmer hand (German Wirehairs, English Pointers).

Essential Traits of a Great Upland Dog

• Strong nose and scent tracking

• Natural pointing or flushing instinct

• Trainability and biddability

• Confidence in cover

• Retrieving drive

• Stamina and physical durability

• Calm behavior at home

You’re not just choosing a hunting partner—you’re choosing a long-term companion.

Common Mistakes Hunters Make When Choosing a Dog

• Picking a breed based solely on looks

• Choosing a dog with too much or too little drive

• Ignoring the breeder’s field-dog background

• Not matching breed range to hunting style

• Underestimating exercise needs

• Expecting a dog to be field-ready without training

Good genetics + good training = excellent hunting dog.

Planning Your Upland Hunt Through Find A Hunt

The right dog makes every flush, every point, and every retrieve more memorable. When you book through Find A Hunt, you get:

• Access to vetted upland outfitters

• Opportunities to hunt behind professional-level dogs

• Mixed-bag hunts for pheasants, grouse, quail, chukar, and more

• A streamlined way to compare hunts and choose the perfect trip

Explore upland hunts today and start planning your next bird-filled adventure.

Upland Dog FAQs

What’s the best all-around upland dog?
Brittanys, GSPs, and Labs are among the most versatile.

Do pointing or flushing dogs find more birds?
Neither—success depends on habitat, training, and the hunter’s style.

Are some breeds better for beginners?
Yes: Labs, Setters, and Brittanys tend to be the most forgiving.

Can a dog be both an upland and waterfowl dog?
Absolutely—Labs, Griffons, and GSPs excel in both arenas.

How soon can I start training a puppy?
Foundational obedience begins at 8 weeks; formal field training begins around 5–6 months.

Ready to hunt over a great dog or experience top-tier dog work in the field? Start planning your next upland adventure through Find A Hunt, and make your season unforgettable.