The obstacle that pointing dogs face in hunting worthy adversaries, like wild pheasants, are many especially in fields where there are no 'objectives' (i.e., alfalfa). The pointing dog must consistently hold pheasants for the hunter to be considered a good pheasant dog. The task to pin birds is laden with hazards. Pheasants are already moving and probably running at the first sign of hunters getting out of their vehicles. The task is compounded if the hunter is slow and takes too long getting shotgun and dogs out of the truck. Many times pheasants are seen running out of fields and into heavy cover or flush wild because hunters stopped to 'check' the fields. The pheasant is a worthy opponent and challenges even the most seasoned bird dog.

The hunter determines when and where to hunt pheasants. However, with all the hunter's skills and experiences, he must still relie on his pointing dog to hold birds. To be a great 'pheasant dog' several requirements are needed. The dog must be fast to locate and can out run pheasants. It must have the ability to discriminate between old and 'hot' scent, and to use the wind to locate birds. The bird dog must have intensity to slam on points. Finally, to self relocate without bumping birds. Only experience on wild pheasants can teach the pointing dog how to handle birds.

Two dogs working in unison and in harmony makes for an 'all star team'. Pointing dogs that work independent, yet are willing to back or honor each other, is ideal under any conditions. The picture (above) shows two such bird dogs, Temis (on point) and Max (backing). The pheasants were several yards to the right along the wind row, where the alfalfa seems to grow thicker.

Max is standing on an unseen cock pheasant located just a few yards to the right in the tall grass/alfalfa (right). This photograph was taken when Max was about one years old. At this young age, Max was already a good pheasant dog with many points and retrieves on pheasants. Both Max and Temis literally grew up on pheasants. At five months of age they were already finding, bumping and chasing birds.

It didn't take them long before they started to stalk them. A short time afterwards, they were pointing pheasants and retrieving shot birds.

In another field, Max covered the field quickly and made a spectacular stand on pheasants (left). It is this type of bird work and points that makes the long drive to training fields and the effort of dog training enjoyable. Notice the styles point with high head and tail.

To flush birds, make a big effort to get in front of the pointing dog. Pay particular attention to the standing dog as this will help determine the exact location of the bird. The bird may have moved as hunters ready themselves to flush. Sometimes, hunters may walk right by pheasants only to flush from under foot or behind with great show of colors and commotion. This survival strategy has unnerved many.

Don't despair, but rejoice in seeing and hearing the cackle of a cock pheasant. Enjoy the moment and take comfort in your dog's effort in pointing the wily pheasant.