Burdbuster,
I constantly train and work with my retriever Wildrose Cayden SH (AKC Senior Hunter). I am presently working with Cayden toward his AKC Master Hunter Title. I guide and he has been worked for the clients of two different guide services, both on waterfowl and on upland birds. Cayden is a proficient gundog on both marked and blind retrieves, water and land work, multiple retrieves, flushing, and tracking. Cayden has great game finding abilities and rare is the crippled bird that is lost.

The clients that I have worked Cayden for, are amazed at how steady he is, despite his obvious high level bird drive. As both Phil and I have mentioned, a proven history of multiple generations of field genetics in any bloodlines you may consider is crucial. Though not foolproof, this is the best indicator for potential success in the area of field performance. This can often be determined by looking at multiple generation pedigrees.

I would be glad to answer any questions you might have if it is within my ability to do so. If not, I can probably point you in the right direction to someone who can help you. Just send me a PM if you have questions, I will do what I can to help you.

Start looking now, while you are saving. You brought up a good point in that money spent now on the breeding of a pup with good health clearances and a guarantee from the breeder, may save both heartache and expensive vet bills down the road.

Also, research some training programs that you can do yourself. Getting the material ahead of time will let you plan and keep the carrot before the horse, so that you maintain your desire to obtain and train a pup.

The amount of joy that I have experienced while hunting throughout my lifetime, has always been greatest when hunting over a gundog I trained.

I have included a photo of myself (left) and Cayden, with a client from a hunt for Canada Geese. This dog just loves his job!!!

Mike Enright -