english springer or lab

M

massman

New member
What are the differences if any in the way the two dogs hunt pheasant? also is a springer a good duck hunter? can they handle massachusettes cold water?
 
Springers> labs upland hunting, labs> springers for ducks though both can do either job well springers can't handle cold water as well.
 
Springers are great pheasant dogs. While Labs do a good job on pheasants I think it's an area that the Springers really shine. But the roles are reversed when you talk about duck hunting. While a Springer can be a good duck dog this is where the Labs really shine. It's also tougher for the Springers to take the cold associated with a lot of duck hunting in the northern states.

Regarding the differences in the way Springers and Labs hunt pheasants. This is my observation having previously owned both Springers and Labs. The Springer is much more enthusiastic and a quicker moving dog in the field. The Springer will generally cover more ground.

If I was going to hunt just pheasants I'd pick the Springer. If I was going to hunt just ducks I'd take the Lab. Either dog will do both so it's really up to you on which works best for you.

I don't want to start a Springer/Lab debate. My statements are general in nature and based on my experience with both breeds. There are certainly exceptions to each breed.
 
I grew up with both in MN. I now only have springers. I used to be a duck hunting nut. Used my springers on ducks more then pheasant hunting many many seasons. I have pups placed in states that all they use them for is duck hunting. Geese can be challenging for them. And as said late season cold water. We would send dogs out in ice water, but would let them warm up in the vehicle after that. Did the same with a lab too though. You can't expect a dog of any breed to bust ice in 35 degree water, and sit there comfortable for hrs. Springers to me became much more versatile owning both breeds. From quail, grouse, partridge, ducks and every other bird in between like dove etc. They take to it all with no hesitation(With training). Both are trainable breeds. As far as marking and long water retrieves I see no dif in the two as long as you use a nice sized male ess. Springers are as gifted a retriever as any breed. I think either will work for you. But if your spending more time in snow and ice blind hunting, get a lab. A male ESS will handle colder water better then a female and be a better duck dog. Good luck
 
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