Meet Canada’s 16 most popular breeds of hunting dog

#6  ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL

The eager, bouncing gait of an English springer spaniel in pursuit of upland game birds quickly reveals the jovial nature of this breed. A medium-sized dog that gets its name from the way it flushes birds by springing toward them, this storied breed can trace its English roots back more than 700 years. The first springers arrived in North America in the 1920s.

These gentle, affectionate dogs are typically very good with children, and always ready for outdoor adventure. They love water and are keen swimmers, especially when sent to fetch downed birds. Springers are separated into distinct field and show lines. Both types are keen bird dogs, but field lines have a shorter coat and ear length, something hunters appreciate after treks through the underbrush.