The gun dog is the hunter's best friend. Bred to retrieve game, flush out prey, and in some cases even bring down game themselves, gun dogs are ideal hunting companions.

Multi-purpose dogs, some of the popular breeds have been drafted into service over the years. Labradors and Golden Retrievers have become excellent guide dogs for the blind, and the superb hearing ability of some breeds make them the ideal choice for assistance dogs to the hearing impaired. Others fit neatly into the family pet category.

While most of the gun dog type breeds will fulfill any role you desire, some, such as the Karelian Bear Dog do not fit into a family situation very well. It is best that you research your breed of choice thoroughly before contacting a breeder.