Thinking about buying a new hunting dog before the season starts—or maybe picking up a pup that someone else has already started? Before you make that decision, there are some key things every handler should consider.

In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down my personal checklist for evaluating a new dog. We’ll cover:

Understanding why you’re buying—whether it’s for hunting, future breeding stock, or resale. The importance of honestly matching your goals with the dog’s background. Key signs of a healthy dog that will save you time, money, and heartache later. The mindset you need when giving a dog that hasn’t been hunted in a while a fair shot.

If you’re serious about setting yourself up for success this season, this episode will give you the clarity to make the right move when evaluating your next dog.

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