A young Weimaraner points
The North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) defines versatility as “the dog that is bred and trained to dependably hunt and point game, to retrieve on both land and water, and to track wounded game on both land and water.”
Here is a list of breeds that qualify to compete is NAVHDA hunt tests as a versatile hunter:
- BA - Braque d’Auvergne
- BB - Braque du Bourbonnais
- BF - Braque Francais
- BI - Bracco Italiano
- BS - Brittany
- CF - Cesky Fousek
- DD - Deutsch Drahthaar
- ES - English Setter
- FP - French Spaniel
- GL - German Longhaired Pointer
- GO - Gordon Setter
- GR - Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
- GS - German Shorthaired Pointer
- GW - German Wirehaired Pointer
- IR - Irish Red & White Setter
- IS - Irish Setter
- LM - Large Munsterlander
- PP - Pudelpointer
- PO - Portuguese Pointer
- PT - Pointer
- SM - Small Munsterlander
- SPI - Spinone
- VI - Vizsla
- WM - Weimaraner
- WV - Wirehaired Vizsla
NAVHDA nor any well-known registry is yet to accept or recognize the Wesslpointer. As they are being developed not far from OwyheeStar, I have first-hand knowledge of this new versatile hunting development. The Wesslpointer has made its debut in the Versatile Hunting Dog Federation (VHDF) hunt test.
As you can well see there are many breeds that quality as versatile hunting companions. Although they are grouped and compete in this category, each breed is unique. Their hunt-style can vary a lot. The Weimaraner tends to mature later than many of these other breeds.
The Weimaraner tends to work close in, more as a team hunting; rather than what people tend to refer to as “big running dogs” that range long distances.
Retrieving a Duck
NAVHDA and VHDF Provide avenues whereby the breeder of a versatile hunting breed, can test for potential in their lineages.
What makes them versatile in the field is their ability to hunt and point game, to retrieve on both land and water, and to track wounded game on both land and water.
Celebrating diversity in America, seemed to call for a look at the versatile hunting companions. They are diverse and often wear many hats. The Weimaraner can be an under-cover dog, a lap dog, a running companion, and a versatile hunting companion. As you can easily see, there are other breeds that quality as versatile hunters, but the Weimaraner has a devote following. Possibly, if you are reading this blog, you are addicted to the Weimaraner!
~ Have a super fantastic day! I plan to take to the field and see if we (Stack, Zee, and my friend Doug) can scare up some birds closer to the home-front today.
