Golden, Chesapeake Bay, flat-coated and other retriever breeds have their adherents. But, each breed has its advantages and flaws. Generally, goldens and flat-coats are great family dogs. Chessies tend to gravitate toward a single master.

If you hunt upland birds and waterfowl, your dog selection is not as limited as many think. Retrievers, with the right training, make great upland bird dogs.

Today, hunters can even obtain pointing labs that will point and hold on birds. When your retriever is not in the water fetching ducks, it can be sniffing the hedgerows for grouse, quail or pheasants.

Spaniels, especially the springer spaniel and the Irish water spaniel, are also great waterfowl dogs. These breeds have strong leg muscles allowing them to "spring" into action as they jump over fallen trees and crash through briar patches looking for birds. This physical attribute carries over to the marshes, too, as spaniels are very good swimmers and retrievers.

Hunters should always remember that hunting birds in today's world is a privilege, and with that privilege comes responsibility. Shot birds must be retrieved. A well-trained hunting dog will gladly and efficiently accomplish that goal.

After spending years training and hunting with dogs, I cannot imagine being without one. My dogs are a pleasure to watch as they work a field for pheasants or slosh through the mire to pick up a downed duck.

The canine enjoyment continues at home with happy tail wagging, unconditional affection and unquestioned loyalty. All of these make owning a hunting dog worth the money, time and commitment it takes to get started.