thinking about a new dog

[Ruark]

The problem is that there are huge numbers of labs out there. Just because it has "retriever" after its name doesn't mean it's going to go retrieve for you. If you want a serious, skilled retriever, you need to get one with a proven retriever bloodline, and preferably one that has had some basic training started.

For field work, I think a lab would be better over a golden. I've had both, and the lab's short coat is a blessing in this Texas brush. They also tend to be much tougher and more athletic in general than the typical golden. Again, though, I'm assuming correct breeding here.

[Yelladog]

.

Heart of texas labs is a great place to adopt a lab. They are in the austin area. We adopted a black female last yr. She is not a hunting dog but I didnt get her for that. They have lots of dogs of all ages.Im sure you could find one that would be a great pet and a good hunter as well. Check out their website

[Triple 7]

thanks Yelladog, I will look into it

[Texas Tracker]

Well I have to do it. Standard Poodle dog. Will hunt retrive blood track and are great around kids and other dogs. Will not shed and thet are smarter then your honor student.

[ballfroguy]

How are they with defending the home

[bowmansdad]

Get a Boykin Spaniel, you will not regret it! Our 2 yo female is a hunting fool! If she sees a gun or camo, she is raring to go. We taught her ourselves and she has been retrieving birds since she was 5 months old. Mary is right on, so get you one!

[Texas Tracker]

How are they with defending the home

Come on by my place and see for yourself. They let me know when anyone is around way before someone get to the driveway.

[Triple 7]

So I have studied the Drathaar's, Labs and Boykin Spaniels so much over the last few days I think it made me more confused

[BirdRanger]

If I was looking for a versatile dog it would be a GSP. From Marshfield Kennel in Shapliegh Maine, Todd and Amanda are amazing breeders and top notch folks and hunters, they also do NAVHDA, North American Versitile Hunting Dog Association, American version of the German Test system. Awesome, I got their contact info if needed.

[Landrover]

Let me really help you out!!! Loyal, perfect with kiddo's, loud, downright pretty, always active and actually LOVE to be in the woods!!!

http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=399599&highlight=rabbit

[TMEC]

If you want a real good hunter and versatile dog a Drath is hard to beat.