Volume VI • Issue I

This month we take a look at the biology of canine reproduction. Vet Louisa Lane provides an in-depth analysis of the canine reproductive cycle, explaining the optimum time for mating. She also stresses the responsibilities that should come with making the decision to breed from your dog.

We also hear from trainer and A Panel Kennel Club judge Jeremy Organ, who along with his wife Gill, runs Edgegrove Gundogs – a top-flight kennel specialising in springers and cockers. The famous Edgegrove line reaches across the continent and even into the United States. Jeremy talks about its foundations and what he believes are the cornerstones of breeding success – along with his career as a judge.

Focusing on the German longhaired pointer, Steve and Coshy Kimberley tell us about their journey with this fast-paced HPR breed and the work that has gone – and continues to go – into building the breed lines here in the UK. For Steve, one of these matings produced his 2023 Championship-winning dog, Cracker – a fascinating story, which he shares with us here.

On the training front, Ben Randall suggests ways we can use everyday opportunities around the home to practise patience with our gundogs, now that Spring is here. They are simple measures that will pay dividends next season when you want your dog to sit nicely for extended periods of time on the peg or picking-up. Gareth Davies and Laura Hill offer up some tips on training your dog for two different disciplines. Gareth also provides a fascinating judge’s view on the 2024 Cocker Spaniel Championship.

Also in this issue:

• Gundogs at Crufts: a review of the 2024 show.
• Hunting in New Zealand with a GSP and a cocker: one man's story.
• Wildfowler Alan Jarrett tells us about his dog of a lifetime.
• Canine comfort: Seven of the best dog beds.
• Parasite control: weighing up the holistic approach.
• What makes a good fishing dog?
• All the action from the Spring pointer and setter trials.
• Canine genetics: nature vs nurture.