what kind of dog would for both upland and waterfowl, i know that a dog that is good at both usually isn't as good as one that is more specialized as in one fore upland or one for waterfowl but for my time one dog is better than two

Gents...VERY simple answer....you have several options.....that is the definition of a versatile hunting dog. I have a GWP, but you also have GSP, pudlepointers, griffon, spizzonis. It's the precise reason I got the GWP.....to point but also to be able to retrieve ducks with the best of 'em. She's 7mo but off to a great start. Just had her in the lake yesterday retrieving like a champ.....and she's birdy as hell. PM me if you want further details.

A hunting friend has a German short-haired pointer that I'm told can do it all.

Otherwise I'd probably get a black lab. Great temperment...much better than the yellow or white in most cases. They can be a little hyper but in my experience not nearly as much as most pointers. They won't point of course, but will retrieve upland birds along with the waterfowling qualities that made them famous. Good on pheasant hunts because they'll work back and forth in front of you getting up birds.

I dont know much about the breed and have never hunted with one, but know several folks that have Boykin Spaniels and swear by them as a "do all" upland/waterfowl dogs.

My GSP Jake can do it all, but if it is really cold or icy he doesn't really like to retrieve ducks. He loves water but his coat doesn't offer a lot of insulation. A GWP might be a better choice.

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Originally posted by crowrifle:
My GSP Jake can do it all, but if it is really cold or icy he doesn't really like to retrieve ducks. He loves water but his coat doesn't offer a lot of insulation. A GWP might be a better choice.

Exactly why I got her.....this is her on point at 9 weeks old.

We have Britts and they are great for upland and OK for water retrieving ducks.

If you prefer a big dog, get a pointing lab.

They have a great nose, point well, easy to train, and of course they LOVE water.

There are many breeds that can do both jobs with equal ability. All of the breeds recognized by NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog Assoc.) can and will do both jobs. I have had German Wirehair Pointing Griffons and Small Munsterlanders that were up to both tasks. Here is a pic of my current SM.

465H&H

Since I only have labs, can't speak much about other breeds. I can say that my labs spend alot of time in the field, pheasant and duck hunting.
They do get the job done in both areas. As a bonus, my one little lab just loves hunting cottontails. She's a jewel. From what I have read, there are several breeds that will offer double duty. Have fun making your selection.