question for grouse hunters

[Tim T]

I have a four-year-old Brittany who has only hunted quail (mostly pen raised birds). I am interested in some grouse hunting, but not sure how she will do becasue of her age and never being around one. Will this be a problem or should she be able to adapt quickly?

[trust me]

Depends on the dog. She'll have to figure out she can't run her nose under the tail feathers like she can with quail, and it may take 1 bird to learn or it may take 20.

My guess is she'll adapt. I've never taken a dog from quail to grouse, only the other way.

[GSP]

Your biggest challenge is finding grouse to work your dog.

It is just like taking a good grouse dog hunting wild pheasants that like running. They have to learn what they can and can not do.

If your dog has a good nose, locks up quick on scent and holds? You won't have any problems.

[KYCatBirdHunter]

yeah. Grouse aren't something that you're gonna be able to just "work her on". You'll probably go out 4 or 5 days in Kentucky before she ever even smells one.

[Tim T]

Thanks for the info guys. I am not sure how many times a year she will get out for grouse because they don't live in the Louisville metro area, but I now have an idea of what to expect. I think I will take her as much as I can and see what happens, if nothing else, we will both get some excersise and see some country LOL. I appreciate all of the info.