Definition

Noun: A dog that is specifically bred and trained to assist hunters who use firearms. Its primary functions are to locate game (birds or other small animals) by scent or sight, and then to retrieve the game after it has been shot.

Usage

This term is used to categorize a specific type of working dog within the context of hunting sports. It describes the dog's role and training, not just its breed. - The hunter relied on his well-trained gun dog to find the downed pheasant in the tall grass. - Retrievers, spaniels, and pointers are all classic types of gun dogs.

Advanced Usage

• Collective Use: The term can be used collectively to refer to this category of dogs.
  • Gun dog trials test a dog's ability to perform hunting tasks in a competitive setting.

Variants and Related Words

• Bird dog (n): A type of gun dog specifically used for hunting game birds. This is a more specific term within the gun dog category.
  • The setter is a popular bird dog known for its distinctive stance when it locates game.
• Retriever (n): A type of gun dog bred primarily to fetch shot game without damaging it.
• Pointer (n): A type of gun dog that uses its body to "point" and indicate the location of game to the hunter.
• Flusher (n): A type of gun dog (like a spaniel) that is trained to flush or scare game out of hiding so the hunter can shoot.

Synonyms

• Hunting dog: A broader term for any dog used in hunting, which may include gun dogs as well as dogs used for tracking larger game like deer or boar.
• Sporting dog: A term often used interchangeably with "gun dog," emphasizing its use in field sports.

Related Phrases

• Gun dog training (n phrase): The specialized process of teaching a dog the skills needed for hunting.
  • Proper gun dog training requires patience and consistency.

Noun

1. a dog trained to work with sportsmen when they hunt with guns