There's no doubt trials and the dogs competing in them have been given a bad rap, mostly by unskilled trainers looking for a convenient and selfabsolving excuse for their own dog's transgressions. The truth is, trials offer the best quality control we have to ensure top-notch game dogs. The people who... more »
It recently occurred to me that after a couple of decades of following dogs around the fields and forests of Ontario, in comparison with my dogs, I know very little about finding game. Human arrogance allows us to think we teach dogs to hunt. This is simply not true. Most hunters/handlers are... more »
If you open this can of worms, be warned: you will unleash a number of old wive's tales and entrenched beliefs warning that you can ruin a dog. This is not all uneducated speculation. While researching for this column I crossed paths with a number of different opinions from people who... more »
A lost hunting dog is always a concern, and while it's more frequent with some breeds, it can and does happen to every breed that accompanies us afield. It can be a short, inconvenient distraction from a day of hunting or as severe as the permanent loss of a loyal and much loved companion... more »
Regardless of one's quarry, a good dog adds an element that hunting alone or with companions can never do. I was reminded of this when I spoke recently with Carman Coumbs, a central-Ontario deer hunter and houndsman. His pride, love of hounds, and devotion to hunting white-tailed deer with his dogs... more »
Bright yellow flames flicker lazily behind the glass door of the green enameled wood-stove. Nearby, Skipper, our 9-year-old female beagle is asleep on a bone-shaped cushion. Occasionally she twitches and emits small yelps, perhaps dreaming of a chase we've enjoyed together. The drapes on the patio... more »
