As one of America’s most popular dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers have taken a special place among dog owners. Known for their friendly nature and adept sporting abilities, Labs could be seen as the perfect companion, both in the home and the field. In this article, we’ll be diving into the history, exercise requirements, social attributes, and working characteristics of the Labrador Retriever. Breed History The origins of the Labrador Retriever begin all the way back at the turn of the 16th century on the island of Newfoundland. As fishermen from countries like England, Spain, and France mad ..read more

‘Tis the season! No, not for presents, but for hunting pheasants! It’s that time of year again…pheasant season. Pheasant hunting is a unique, challenging, and exhilarating experience for both hunters and dogs. It’s the long-standing outdoor tradition where bird dogs can show off their innate skills, and all that training finally starts to pay off. It requires you and your dogs to work in tandem and showcases the remarkable partnership that can be achieved through it all. Dog Conditioning If you want to hit your limit during the season, then let’s look at another critical time, which is off-se ..read more

It’s that time of year again. Birds are migrating south to seek warmer climates, and hunters are ready and waiting! You have some new duck calls you’re excited to try, or a new decoy spread you are eager to set up! Though one thing people sometimes overlook is having their bird dog, or themselves ready for the season.   A lot of hunters will take it easy during the summertime, but this can lead to starting the season a bit rusty if not properly prepared. Going back over basics for your bird dog may be tedious, but it helps to reinforce previous training, and keeps them sharp for the begi ..read more

If you’ve read our previous blogs, you might remember our previous highlight of Tennessee’s love for Bluetick Coonhounds. This month, we’d like to call attention to a South Carolina original: The Boykin Spaniel. In 1985, Boykin Spaniels were named the official state dog of South Carolina by the state legislator. Boykins enjoy a fascinating and well-documented history in the United States. Once called South Carolina’s best kept secret, now it’s popularity is well-known throughout the country, particularly in south-eastern regions, and is a favorite choice as a versatile hunting companion. A ..read more

Described as friendly, loyal, but also a bit of a handful, this Dog Breed Highlight is featuring the beloved Bluetick Coonhound. This breed of dog has a history of cultural significance in the United States, rumored to have a lineage traced back to the scenthounds originally gifted to George Washington. Also, it is the official mascot for the University of Tennessee football team, and is featured in classic stories such as, “Where the Red Fern Grows”. Breed History Bluetick Coonhounds get their name from their unique and striking features, with black markings, known as “ticking”, spread th ..read more

When you’re out in the field with your dog(s), the last thing you want for your four-legged hunting buddy is an injury. Depending on when and where you are hunting, there are several different hazards that your gun dog could come across. Being proactive and prepared could save your dog’s long-term health, or even their life! We have put together a list of some essential items that hunting dog owner should carry with them in their first-aid kit during a hunt. Digital Thermometer Hypothermia, and heat-stroke can both be dangerous for dogs working hard in the fields. Normal body temperature of d ..read more

Photo: @lockedonpointgsp (Instagram) The German Shorthaired Pointer has gained a large amount of popularity in recent years for being an enthusiastic gundog as well as being a noble family pet. Full of energy and character, the German Shorthaired Pointer, or GSP, is a hunters dream as they are known for being incredibly smart and willing to please in the field. Breed History Developed around the 1800’s, the German Shorthaired Pointer was meant to be a versatile bird dog. German breeders were trying to experiment with crosses between a tracking hound and a pointing dog which ultimately led ..read more

Every year, dog handlers and owners from all over the country visit Ames Plantation in Grand Junction, Tennessee to compete for their chance to win the title of National Champion in Field Trial. This year marked the 124th running of the National Championship and it was no different with some of the best handlers and dogs competing for their shot at being the National Champion. History The National Championship was first organized and run near West Point, Mississippi in 1896. Later, the competition was conducted on field trial grounds south of Grand Junction, Tennessee; near Rogers Springs, Te ..read more

  Sportsman’s Pride Elite Field Master, Bill Gibson, is the Head of Gun Dog Operations and Master Trainer at Mossy Oak Gamekeeper Kennels in Mississippi. In 2004, Bill was part of the first US Gun Dog team to participate in the United Kingdom and won the International Gun Dog Challenge beating out England, Scotland, Wales, and more. We sat down with him to learn more about his work in training some of the worlds best hunting dogs. When you tell people what you do for a living, what do you tell them? I manage Mossy Oak Gamekeeper Kennels and train British bred Labrador Retrievers.  W ..read more

  Sportsman’s Pride Field Master, Lauren Harvey, is making a name for herself in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan by hunting big game. We sat down with Lauren to talk to her about her experience in the hunting world.    When you tell people what you do for a living, what do you tell them? For my day-to-day job, I manage a boarding and grooming kennel right off of Lake Superior. On my off days I spend time training bear dogs and hunting.   What other dog/animal related work have you done leading up to what you do now? For the last few years, I have worked in grooming, boardi ..read more