The sport of purebred dogs officially began in the 19th century when gentlemen hunters gathered together to see who had the better bird dog. Conformation, as a unique competition, came about when the breed-specific qualities of those early hunting dogs were evaluated, and recorded for posterity, by acknowledged experts of the day. Judges at those first dog shows came from the ranks of dedicated and experienced huntsmen, individuals who were intimately familiar with the capabilities of a good pointer or setter—and later, a capable retriever or spaniel—in the field, certainly, but also in the water. A good bird dog, after all, tends to make a splash wherever birds are found.
Based on the critiques published in the dog press at the time, adjudicators emphasized those qualities that allowed each dog to perform its intended function. Without written Breed Standards to guide them, judges relied on their own experience rather than any kind of tutorial (though personal preferences likely factored into the decision-making, then as now). However, beauty is as beauty does, and the best dog in the ring was often—and occasionally still is—the best dog under the gun, too.
Thirty-three breeds are currently recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the Sporting Group. The Royal Kennel Club (UK) recognizes several more, with a few name variations included among the 38 breeds in its Gundog Group. Among the breeds recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), 36 are categorized in Group 7 (Pointing Dogs) and 22 appear in Group 8 (Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs) for a total of 58 recognized breeds. Interestingly, the United Kennel Club (UKC) in the US grants full recognition to 61 breeds in its Gun Dog Group, including several that are utilized almost exclusively for hunting.
Whatever their designation around the world, bird dogs bring a sense of adventure to everything they do. As willing partners with their favorite humans, they eagerly retrieve ducks, climb A-frames, or provide assistance through a life of service. With only their instincts and good sense to guide them, bird dogs capably deliver on the promise of the human-canine bond—willing to please in any and all pursuits.
Through the articles and interviews assembled in this issue, SHOWSIGHT has endeavored to celebrate the happy hunters of the Sporting Group through the words of the breeders, judges, and exhibitors who know them best. We hope you enjoy!
