The Next Generation, Setters

Compared to some folks who hunt a lot or breed litters, we keep a fairly limited number of dogs.  That is for a reason, well, several reasons actually.  The primary reason is that it is very important for us to be able to give each dog the amount of time and attention that they deserve.  Between the two of us we spend a lot of time with our dogs and we get to know them as companions and as well as bird dogs.  They add a great deal of pleasure and interest to our lives, I cannot imagine not having them.  

Being part of our smallish pack means that we have ample opportunity to know and evaluate the qualities that each dog offers, and some qualities may not be those that many bird dog breeders talk about.  We want a dog that: gets along well with other dogs; is friendly with people; likes to travel; is affectionate but not needy; is obedient; and is easy to be around.  Add to this our eye for proper conformation for the breed and our high expectations for a complete hunting companion and you can see why we limit the number of dogs in our "pack."  

So we try to space out when we keep a puppy so they have ample time to, well, be a puppy.  I keep a setter puppy every 3 -4 years.  Well, this litter has been extra exciting for me because it's time to keep a puppy!  This has been a tough litter to choose from, the quality was deep and any of the pups would likely 'make the cut' with us.  But we had to make our choice at some point, so here goes: 

Without further ado, let me introduce Kate:

And her brother, Flint.  That's right, two puppies!  

Mike loves the boy dogs and encouraged me to keep a male in addition to the female I wanted.  We will raise and hunt both puppies all year long.  This time next year we will decide whether to keep Flint or to let him go as a started dog for which we often get requests.

Watching young dogs starting out in the field is one of my favorite parts of hunting.  These guys will start out either in the grouse woods or Montana plains, as our schedule will dictate.  So much to forward to!   

Cheers

ld