[Alaska7133]

Yes you have a bird dog. You should consider fieldwork. Since he was capable of catching and not killing the bird, it shows he has a lot of skill and has a soft mouth. He's also very quick. To avoid potential interactions with birds, I would not have anything to attract birds like feeders or water basins. Your pup will definitely catch more birds. He's very young and very birdy. If you decide to get into fieldwork, we have a nice section on this forum call Hunt and Field. There are lots of people over there willing to help you out.

 

[Alaska7133]

You might want to visit a hunt test, field trial or working certificate test. To find ones in your area you can visit www.entryexpress.net You will have to register for the site to explore it. You can look up hunt tests and field trials for AKC and HRC clubs. NAHRA clubs will not be listed. To find local clubs, you might want to check with a member in your area: Hotel4dogs. She competes in different hunt test venues and can maybe give you some ideas of when and where they are. Watching an event will let you know a bit more about what is involved. Have fun with your new guy!