Jonsey, I don't disagree with much of what you post about training dogs. But the guy asks what time it is and now you're telling us all how to build a clock?

I like to see folks that ask for advice on the net to get good advice, too and I am a little confused that your first response in which you admonish the guy to get a broke dog. (Some might think this is a pro's bias.) Then in your big fat paragraph on dog training and your dressing down of anyone who might disagree with you, you recommend a getting a pup. Confusing. I don't think it matters-- just up to the owner as to whether he is willing to invest the time in a pup or wants a dog that can hunt out of the box.

So far as folks testin' you. I haven't. But unsolicited advice is going to rub folks the wrong way, especially when you give it to folks that don't need it.

I didn't ask about terrain, because I know what Iowa pheasant hunting is like. And I didn't recommend shorthairs because they are MY favorite breed. They aren't.

I'm not gettin' down on you and I think you're generally a good resource for folks here. I don't give much dog training advice on boards because so many experts always want to trash your technique and substitute theirs.If you're gonna post on a board like this, you might as well get used to it.

obby, The point Jonsey made of hunting a pointer with a flusher is a good one. I wouldn't do it. I have done it once against my better judgement and it confirmed my thoughts on the matter. I've heard of folks that do it, but it can lead to bad habits in a pointer, especially a young one that isn't steady.

One thing about owning a pointer vs a flusher for upland game is that you can always hunt bigger country with them. You can rein it a big runnin' dog , but you can't put wheels on one that wasn't born with them.