For many bird hunters, their gundogs are like their children. Dogs need to be fed and watered, cared for, properly schooled and protected. It’s a big responsibility but one that is welcomed and rewarding. (And at least dogs don’t talk back and sometimes actually listen!) Spring brings opportunities to reap the benefits of dog ownership: chances to head afield and prepare for next hunting season. The following products will help with training and more.
Made of the finest-quality 10-11-ounce bridle leather, Galco’s Dog Collar is practical jewelry for your best friend. The 1¼”-wide collar has polished edges, five holes for adjustment, and a solid-brass buckle and D-ring, providing a sturdy connection for leads and leashes. A 1" version is also available.
Color: Coffee.
Sizes: M (16" to 20" neck circumference), L (18" to 22"), XL (20" to 24").
Price: $95 ($85 for 1" collar).
Galco Holsters.
SCHEELS OUTFITTERS PERFORMANCE DOG HUNTING VEST
Training or hunting in cover calls for a dog vest that can stand up to punishment—and the Scheels Outfitters Performance Dog Hunting Vest fits the bill. The vest has a durable outer shell for abrasion resistance, a front chest protector, a neoprene chest panel for minor impact resistance and a four-way-stretch, breathable rear panel. The vest secures with a 4”-wide hook-and-loop closure, allowing it to fit a range of dogs.
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL.
Color: Blaze Orange. Price: $50.
Scheels.
DRYSHOD SOUTHLAND MEN’S HUNTING BOOT
For scent-free training or working in wet conditions, the Dryshod Southland Men’s Hunting Boot provides all-day comfort in warmer weather. The 100-percent-waterproof boot features hand-laid rubber overlays, a 4mm neoprene bootie, a breathable air-mesh lining, a removable EVA sock liner and a generous heel kick for easy on-off. The boot has a DS1 molded outsole with a double Achilles heel and instep reinforcement and a nylon shank for ankle stability. The top of the boot rolls down for tucking in pant legs or venting.
Color: VEIL Whitetail camouflage.
Sizes: Whole 7 through 16.
Price: $190.
Dryshod.
MUD RIVER MAGNUM FEED & RETRIEVE FOOD BUCKET
For around the house or extended stays in the field, Mud River’s Magnum Feed & Retrieve Food Bucket will store plenty of your dog’s groceries. Made of ripstop nylon with a polyurethane coating, the Food Bucket will hold up to 50 cups, or 20 pounds, of dry food. It has a molded bottom, web carry straps and adjustable front and back straps that allow it to collapse as the food empties. A zippered pocket on the lid’s top will hold a dog bowl (not included).
Dimensions: 16" (h) x 11½" (w).
Colors: green and orange.
Price: $64.
Mud River.
Food or water breaks for your dog are made easy with the Tom Beckbe Canvas Dog Bowl. With a weatherproof waxed-cotton/nylon-canvas outer and a water-repellent synthetic liner, the stylish bowl can be collapsed easily for travel and expanded for use. The interior is not only safe for food but also a cinch to clean. An antique brass ring makes for convenient carry.
Dimensions: 6½" (w) x 2" (h).
Color: Bark.
Price: $30.
Tom Beckbe.
When it comes to traveling with dogs, the rule is safety first. Orion Kennels’ AD3 will keep your dog both protected and comfortable. Made of rotomolded plastic, the kennel has a rope-handle-and-tie-down system so that it can be secured with straps (not provided). The unique door-opening system uses straps and clips, allowing the door to be opened left, right or up and to be removed entirely. The top of the kennel features a carrying handle, cup holders and a recessed storage area. The AD3 is said to accommodate dogs weighing 50 to 75 pounds but, according to online reviews, kennel capacity tends to run small and you may want to check with the company before ordering.
Dimensions: 34" (l) x 22½" (w) x 26" (h).
Weight: 26 pounds.
Colors: Moss (shown), Ember and Stone.
Price: $424.
Orion Kennels.
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