ERK Started & Finished GSPs For Sale

From time to time Eagle Ranch Kennels will have adult dogs available for sale on this page as started hunting dogs, finished hunting dogs, or companion only dogs. There are a number of ways to define a “started” hunting dog or a “finished” hunting dog. Our definitions are list below and are not meant to suggest that others are wrong. Simply, we feel this best describes what we believe to be the characteristics of each.

A STARTED HUNTING DOG 1) displays an understanding of basic commands – recall (here), whoa (stop), kennel (place), sit, heel (on leash), 2) is crate trained, potty trained, understands what “no” means, is generally well-behaved inside the home, etc. 3) generally handles in the field – quarters a field, hunts at a reasonable pace and range, displays a solid prey drive, etc., 4) has been appropriately introduced to birds – searches, finds, points (and holds) birds by scent, and then chases on flush, 5) has been exposed to gunfire and is not gun shy with at least 25-30 birds shot for the dog during training, and 6) has had the opportunity to begin developing his or her natural retrieving abilities but is not necessarily a consistent retriever at this stage. Started dogs are ideal for owners who want to finish a dog themselves but do not necessarily want to go through the process of raising a puppy. Started dogs are ready to be hunted but are not “fully broke”. They have been developed enough to get out and start gaining hunting experience but are not fully mature nor have they had much exposure to advanced handling skills, advanced steadiness skills, nor are they polished retrievers. While started dogs can be any age, typically started dogs are 0-3 years of age.

A FINISHED HUNTING DOG is a polished hunter that has completed extensive training and is by all accounts “fully broke.” A finished dog has proofed all the key commands – recall, whoa, kennel, sit, heel (on or off leash) – and is consistently obedient in field and in the home. He or she is at minimum steady to wing and shot, retrieves to hand, backs/honors the point of other dogs, can track game (if a part of their training), can retrieve in water (if a part of their training). Finished dogs are just that – “finished.” They require maintenance training but otherwise are fully obedient companions and polished hunters. While finished dogs can be younger, typically finished dogs are 3+ years of age.

Dogs listed below include specific details about their training level, hunting experience, and what to expect in the field and at home.

Please email us if you have any questions or would like more information.

NO STARTED OR FINISHED DOGS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE – CHECK BACK FOR UPDATES