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 setters, retrievers, and spaniels.[3][failed verification]
There are several breeds used as gundogs with varying instinctive skill sets for each one.[4] Gun dogs are divided into three primary types: retrievers, pointing breeds, and water dogs.
| Main category | Type | Example | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retrievers |  |
Golden Retriever | |
| Pointing | Pointers |  |
English Pointer |
| Setters |  |
English Setter | |
| Water (flushing) dog | Spaniels |  |
English Cocker Spaniel |
| Water dogs |  |
Standard Poodle | |
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.[6][7]
| Authority control databases: National |
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