Video: Raising successful gun dogs
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Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
We watched as Duke vom Buffeltaler , 2 1/2-year-old winner of the 2006 International Armbruster trophy, trotted into the thicket. In less than two minutes, he emerged with the pheasant gently cradled in his mouth, sat obediently at his master's side and offered up the bird.
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Hunting with a good dog changes everything. Breed matters -- Detusch Drahthaars such as Duke were originally bred in Germany to be versatile hunting dogs adept at pointing, tracking and retrieving.
But Zarra, 35, of Carrick, said the dog-rearing skills of the trainer often matter more. Huntmaster at Bridgeville's Alpine Club and a private hunting guide, Zarra was awarded the Armbruster last year for Duke's demonstration of innate abilities, training and searching skills.
It's only partly coincidental that the previous winner of the international trophy is also from the Pittsburgh area. Gary Stephens, 51, of New Castle, and his 15-month-old Detusch Drahthaars Lena, won the Armbruster in 2005.
"Gary's helped me," said Zarra. "I'd say he's had a big impact on my raising style."
Both trainers insist that the success of a hunting dog -- regardless of breed or intended hunting style -- begins when its brought into the home, normally at about eight weeks old.
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Questions or comments on this presentation may be sent here. Video by John Hayes.
First Published October 21, 2007 12:00 am
