Here in OK, the quail population seems to finally be recovering somewhat. For the past several years I have not had a bird dog because I couldn't find enough birds to keep one in shape. Here lately I've been rabbit hunting a lot, and my beagle routinely busts good coveys. At first I thought it was just a coincidence but after watching him closely I'm convinced that he's hunting them. If I hunt him into the wind he'll start baying like he just jumped a rabbit and more often than not we get into birds. First question, how common is this for a beagle? Second question, how can I get him to find the dead ones. Third question, what's the best bird dog? Just kidding!! That's like asking for opinions on Hillary or Rush Limbaugh. Seriously, though, I'm looking for a smaller breed that points and can find dead birds. Probably gonna stay in the house a lot. Good with kids. Any suggestions?

My beagles bark and run like their running a rabbit with pheasants. Its common because they are a hound. As for finding dead birds, its just a coicidence if they find them. Sometimes i think i missed a bunny but then the dog has it in its mouth after going into a brush pile, i guess it is how lucky you could get

same here wihunter.. our beagles do this sometimes too, its common.

308BLR im in the same boat that you are in as far as looking for a dog. I wish there was a smaller version of a lab. say around 30-40 pounds. I would just get a lab but the old lady already has 3 cats and 2 chihuahua. Those stupid dogs couldnt find thier way out of a paperbag

Yeah, I had a good lab but she died about a year ago from poisoning. I'm just now getting to where I can seriously consider getting another dog. (The beagles are actually my dad's) Thinking maybe some kind of spaniel, but have never owned one. Sorry to hear about the yappers, davs!

I may just say the heck with it and go to one of the lab rescue places and find a dog.