Hunting and dogs have shared a special bond for thousands of years — long before modern equipment or GPS trackers ever entered the picture. In fact, archaeologists have found evidence that humans have been hunting alongside dogs for over 20,000 years, proving that our partnership in the wild runs deep.
Today, that bond is stronger than ever. The right bird hunting dog doesn’t just help locate and retrieve game — it elevates the entire experience. These dogs are intelligent, athletic, and driven by instinct, making them reliable companions for hunters who appreciate skill, loyalty, and teamwork.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, knowing which dogs excel in the field can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore seven of the best bird hunting breeds — the ones that combine keen tracking ability, sharp focus, and an unshakable eagerness to please.
Key Takeaways
Meet incredible hunters like the English Setter, Labrador Retriever, and English Pointer—each built for action and loyalty.
See why the German Shorthaired Pointer, Brittany, and Weimaraner are every hunter’s dream partners in the field.
Discover how the English Springer Spaniel and others bring unstoppable energy and focus to every hunt.
Count down the seven best bird dogs that mix adventure, instinct, and pure heart.
Best Bird Hunting Dog Breeds With Tracking And Countdown
1. English Setter
Rugged, graceful, and endlessly loyal, the English Setter is a true classic in the world of bird dogs. Bred centuries ago to “set” or lie down when they found game hiding in tall grass, these dogs are famous for their patience and precision.
With their elegant looks and gentle personality, they’ve earned a place both in the field and at home.
Field Skills
The English Setter is built for bird hunting in dense woods. Grouse hunters especially value them for their calm and steady approach. They move smoothly through thick cover, adjusting to scent changes without rushing the bird.
This makes them excellent at pointing upland birds just the right distance for a clean shot. It’s no surprise that setters dominate cover dog field trials — a sign of their instinct, discipline, and adaptability.
Temperament & Care
Off the field, English Setters are loving and social companions. They bond deeply with families and enjoy spending time with both adults and kids.
However, they don’t like being left alone for long and can develop separation anxiety. Their feathered coats — often seen in beautiful “Belton” color patterns like blue, orange, or tri-color — need regular brushing to stay neat.
2. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer, or GSP, is a powerhouse in the field. Bred in Germany in the 1800s, this breed was designed to be a true all-rounder — strong, smart, and ready for any challenge.
Their sleek, water-repellent coat and webbed feet make them as comfortable diving into lakes as running across open prairies.
Field Skills
Built for action, the GSP thrives in open-country hunting. They excel with prairie birds like sharptails and sage grouse, using their sharp nose and discipline to track and hold a point even when birds flush wild.
These pointing dogs range naturally within a good working distance from the hunter and cooperate well with other dogs. Their ability to perform equally well on land and in water has made them one of the most versatile and trusted bird dogs today.
Temperament & Care
Off the field, GSPs are energetic, loyal, and full of personality. They love to stay busy — whether it’s hunting, swimming, or simply exploring the outdoors. Without enough activity, they can become restless, so daily exercise is a must.
Luckily, their short coats are easy to maintain, and their friendly nature makes them excellent family companions. These dogs are adventurous, intelligent, and playful, always eager for their next task.
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most iconic bird dogs in history. Originally bred in Canada to assist fishermen, this breed quickly proved its worth in waterfowl hunting with unmatched skill.
Their thick double coat keeps them warm in icy waters, and their strong, rudder-like tail helps them steer smoothly while swimming. It’s no wonder they’ve become a favorite among hunters and families alike.
Field Skills
Labs are built for endurance, strength, and focus. In the field, they’re natural flushers and enthusiastic retrievers, able to work tirelessly through thick cover or cold marshes.
Their agility and speed make them versatile hunters, whether chasing pheasants across open prairies or diving after ducks in winter ponds. They’re reliable, eager to please, and known for their strong bond with their handler — a key ingredient for success on any hunting trip.
Temperament & Care
Off duty, the Labrador Retriever is America’s sweetheart — affectionate, playful, and endlessly loyal. These energetic dogs fit perfectly into active families and thrive on companionship.
Labs are intelligent, trainable, and kind, though their love for food can get them into mischief without enough activity. Regular exercise and playtime keep this happy retriever in top form, both as a hunter and as a beloved family friend.
4. Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany, once known as the Brittany Spaniel, is a compact and lively hunting dog with roots in France. Originally bred for bird hunting, this breed combines pointing, flushing, and retrieving skills in one enthusiastic package.
Their orange-and-white coats, bright eyes, and cheerful nature make them as appealing at home as they are impressive in the field.
Field Skills
Developed from local French spaniels and infused with Setter and Pointer bloodlines, the Brittany was built for versatility. They thrive in dense cover, especially in ruffed grouse country, where their close-working range and sharp nose shine.
Small and agile, they move effortlessly through thick brush, keeping in tune with the hunter without needing constant direction. Their determination and heart often allow them to outperform larger breeds, proving that size isn’t everything in the hunting world.
Temperament & Care
Off the field, Brittanys are gentle, playful, and deeply loyal. These active dogs love spending time with their families and are especially good with children.
Their high-energy level, though, demands regular exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. A Brittany that gets daily activity is a happy one — eager to please, affectionate, and always ready for the next adventure.
5. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a lively and dependable bird dog, known for its ability to “spring” game birds from hiding.
Originating in England in the late 1800s, as per the AKC, this breed was created to detect, flush, and retrieve upland birds — all with enthusiasm and precision. Their joyful energy and eagerness to please make them one of the most trusted flushing breeds in the hunting world.
Field and Hunting Skills
Springers are built for action. They quarter the field with confidence, moving swiftly and fearlessly through cover. Their specialty lies in flushing wild birds close to the gun, then retrieving them with care.
Whether chasing pheasants through open fields, grouse in the woods, or ducks in shallow water, the English Springer Spaniel’s endurance shines. They can sometimes range too far ahead, but with gentle reminders and basic obedience training, they become reliable, all-season hunting partners.
Temperament & Care
Off the field, these dogs are affectionate, loyal, and full of personality. Often called a “Velcro breed,” they love sticking close to their people and thrive on attention. Their playful spirit extends beyond hunting — they excel in activities like dock diving and flyball.
They’re also natural swimmers who adore any chance to splash around. With their friendly temperament and strong work ethic, English Springer Spaniels make both excellent hunting dogs and wonderful family companions.
6. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is one of the most striking bird dogs in the hunting world. With its sleek silver-gray coat and soulful blue eyes, this breed is as elegant as it is powerful.
Originally bred in Germany in the early 19th century for noble hunters, the Weimaraner earned its nickname, the “Gray Ghost,” for its smooth, silent movement and graceful presence in the field.
Field Skills
The Weimaraner is the definition of versatility. Though first bred to hunt big game like deer and boar, it has evolved into an expert upland bird hunter. These dogs point, track, and retrieve with natural skill and confidence.
They adapt easily to any terrain — from open plains to dense woods — and can even work waterfowl. Their strong prey drive and sharp instincts make early training important, but once guided, their hunting ability feels almost effortless.
Temperament & Care
Beyond the field, Weimaraners are loyal family pets with an affectionate nature, according to PetMD. They love attention and thrive on human connection, often following their people everywhere. They’re low-maintenance in grooming but high-maintenance in affection.
Their short, sleek coat requires little care, but their active minds and bodies need plenty of exercise and play. With the right mix of structure and love, the Weimaraner becomes both a devoted family dog and a good hunting dog.
7. English Pointer
The English Pointer stands at the top of the list for a reason. This elegant, athletic breed was built for one purpose — to hunt downed birds with unmatched precision.
Originating in England centuries ago, Pointers are believed to descend from foxhounds and greyhounds, combining endurance, speed, and a keen sense of smell. When they find game, they stop instantly, body tense and tail straight, “pointing” to signal the hunter. It’s a breathtaking sight every time.
Field Skills
Pointers are the ultimate scenting machines. Their high head carriage and powerful stride allow them to cover wide stretches of land with ease. Known for their tireless drive and focus, they thrive in open country and warmer climates.
Whether tracking grouse, quail, or pheasants, the English Pointer’s nose and instinct set the standard for hunting upland game. Independent yet cooperative, they’re natural hunters from an early age and work beautifully alongside other dogs.
Temperament & Care
Outside the field, English Pointers are gentle, friendly, and full of life. They love being outdoors but enjoy family time just as much.
Their smooth, short coats are easy to maintain, and their even temperament makes them great companions for active owners. As many hunters say, the English Pointer doesn’t just follow your lead — it inspires you to become a better hunter.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hunting partner goes beyond preference — it’s about matching your hunting style with a dog’s natural instincts. From pointing breeds that point birds to flushing dogs that push game into the open, only a few dogs truly excel across different hunting scenarios.
Whether you’re hunting pheasants, prairie grouse, wild turkeys, or other animals, training hunting dogs early helps them hunt effectively and handle various bird species or small game with confidence.
The best tracking dogs and upland bird hunting companions are the ones perfectly suited to your lifestyle. Knowing how hunting dogs eat, train, and stay focused gives dog owners an edge in the field. With the right guidance, these high-energy dogs become trusted teammates, bringing skill, drive, and heart to every hunt.
There are other breeds as well that make great hunting companions. These include the Cocker Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Wirehaired Pointer.
