Craig Koshyk is author of Pointing Dogs Volume 1 – The Continentals and Volume 2 – The British and Irish Breeds. He also hosts the excellent Hunting Dog Confidential podcast and writes for Project Upland Magazine.
The discussion covers the author's fascination with writing and researching, the discovery of rare and extinct dog breeds, hunting experiences in different countries, and the vastness and diversity of upland bird hunting in North America. The conversation delves into the hunting culture, contrasting the traditional hunting ethos in Manitoba with the more sport-oriented approach in the US. It also explores the hunting culture in Quebec, the impact of market hunting on conservation efforts, and the distinct hunting traits of different breeds. The journey to a new breed of hunting dog is also discussed, highlighting the personal connection to the breed's origin. The conversation delves into the influence of breeding on hunting behavior, the unique characteristics of French dog breeds and culture, the decline of English setters and pointers, the potential development of an English HPR, and the discussion of genetics and breeding practices. The conversation delves into the art of breeding dogs, the impact of selective breeding, the role of true breeders, challenges in dog breeding, testing and proving working abilities, the evolution of dog traits, the impact of breeding practices, the importance of testing and proving, the reality of breeding and hunting, the impact of breeding on working dogs, the significance of honesty in breeding, the experience of English trials, and future plans and trips.
Takeaways
The joy of writing and researching
Discovery of rare dog breeds
Cultural exchange through hunting experiences
The vastness and diversity of upland bird hunting in North America Hunting culture varies between regions, with some emphasizing tradition and sustenance while others focus on sport and economic activity.
The impact of market hunting on wildlife conservation efforts and the subsequent regulations and laws put in place to protect endangered species.
The distinct hunting traits and tendencies of different breeds, and the considerations involved in choosing a new breed for hunting. Breeding significantly impacts hunting behavior
French dog breeds and culture are unique and influential
The decline of English setters and pointers is a notable historical trend
The development of an English HPR is a potential area of interest
Genetics and breeding practices play a crucial role in dog breeding and development Selective breeding shapes dog traits
Testing and proving working abilities is crucial for breeding
Honesty in breeding is essential for the well-being of dogs
Chapters
00:00 The Joy of Writing and Researching
39:22 Hunting Experiences and Cultural Exchange
53:37 The Vastness of Upland Bird Hunting
59:31 Upland Game Hunting: Manitoba vs. the US
01:06:03 Breed-Specific Hunting Traits
01:23:06 German vs. French Breeds in North America
01:31:15 The Journey to a New Breed
01:36:22 French Dog Breeds and Culture
01:41:55 Developing an English HPR
02:03:38 Genetics and Breeding Practices
02:09:06 Challenges in Dog Breeding
02:14:18 The Evolution of Dog Traits
02:20:24 The Reality of Breeding and Hunting
02:37:39 The Experience of English Trials
UK