Sporting dogs were bred to assist hunters in the field - Retrievers, Setters, and Spaniels excel in stamina, biddability, and water-loving work. In Canada, their cold-weather tolerance and enthusiasm for trails, swimming, and fetch make them ideal for active owners. This guide compares temperament, exercise needs, shedding, and health so you can choose confidently.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a cheerful, devoted, and energetic gundog known for its striking red-and-white coat and friendly, loyal temperament. Originally bred for flushing and retrieving game, the Welsh Springer thrives as both a hardworking hunting companion and a loving family pet. They are affectionate with their people, great with children, and happiest when given daily exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of attention.
The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a cheerful, fox-faced, spaniel-type gun dog developed to lure ducks into decoys using its white-tipped plume tail. Affectionate, sensitive, and clever, “Kooikers” bond closely with their people and thrive on training games, moderate daily exercise, and calm, consistent handling. If you’re searching “Are Kooikerhondjes good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active owners who meet their exercise and enrichment needs. “Do Kooikerhondjes shed?”—moderately, with seasonal coat blows.
The English Springer Spaniel is an energetic, affectionate sporting breed known for its intelligence, eagerness to please, and love of outdoor adventures. Whether as a devoted family companion or a hardworking field dog, Springers thrive in active homes where they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They're great with kids, sociable with other dogs, and happiest when included in all aspects of daily life.
The English Setter is an elegant, friendly, and graceful sporting dog known for its feathered coat and gentle disposition. Bred for hunting and companionship, this breed thrives in active households that can provide ample exercise, affection, and mental stimulation. English Setters are affectionate with children, easy to train, and happiest when included in all aspects of family life.
The Bracco Italiano is a noble, powerfully built Italian pointing dog known for its sculpted head, long velvety ears, and effortless ground-covering trot. Calm in the home yet driven in the field, the Bracco is affectionate, biddable, and happiest with owners who enjoy training, hiking, and scent work. If you’re asking “Are Bracchi good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active homes that meet exercise needs. “Do Bracco Italianos drool?”—a bit, thanks to their pendulous lips. “Do Bracchi shed?”—light to moderate.
