Gun dog

Gun dogs (gundogs) or bird dogs are types of hunting dogs developed to assist hunters in finding and retrieving game,[1] typically various fowls that are shot down on the wing (in flight).

The term hunting dog is broad and includes all breeds and skills of hunting canines, but "gun dogs" refers to canines that are trained to work alongside a loud firearm while hunting or retrieving game.

[2] Gun dogs are divided into three main categories: pointers and retrievers, setters and spaniels, and water dogs.

[3][failed verification] There are several breeds used as gundogs with varying instinctive skill sets for each one.

When competing in conformation shows most kennel clubs, including The Kennel Club group pedigree gun dog breeds together in their own gun dog group, whilst some such as the American Kennel Club group them in a sporting group.