Pudelpointer Breeder for Grand Rapids, Michigan Hunters
What is the nearest reputable pudelpointer breeder to Grand Rapids?
Foothill Kennel in Flowery Branch, Georgia, is about 614 miles from Grand Rapids, roughly a long day on the road, and it breeds pudelpointer puppies from parents tested through NAVHDA. Call Jim Kenny at 678-316-6780 for news of the next litter or to schedule a kennel visit by appointment.
West Michigan is serious bird country, with grouse woods to the north and big water to the west. A Grand Rapids hunter choosing among pudelpointer dogs should put the breeder’s field record ahead of convenience, because that record says far more about the pup’s future than the length of the drive.
Is a pudelpointer a good grouse and woodcock dog for west Michigan?
Yes. Pudelpointers point with intensity, handle thick young forest well and retrieve reliably, which makes them a strong match for Michigan’s ruffed grouse and woodcock coverts. They also track wounded birds and work comfortably in water, so the same dog can take on ducks when the season turns.
The breed was developed in Germany from 1881, when breeders crossed the German hunting poodle with the English pointer to get one dog that could do it all. From Grand Rapids, that range gets plenty of use:
- Rogue River State Game Area: state land north of the city with river bottoms and upland cover
- Allegan State Game Area: a large tract to the southwest known for its mix of waterfowl marsh, fields and woods
- Huron-Manistee National Forests: the Manistee side lies north of the city, with the aspen stands and alder runs that grouse and woodcock hunters look for
- Grand River and Lake Michigan shoreline: duck and goose hunting on the river and the coastal marshes to the west
Seasons, bag limits and state game area rules are set by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Look over its current hunting digests, plus federal waterfowl requirements, before each season.
Why is Foothill Kennel counted among the top pudelpointer breeders?
It earned the NAVHDA Breeders Award in 2013 and again in 2017, and its dogs have scored at or near the maximum in NAVHDA field tests. The North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association gives that award to breeders whose dogs consistently perform well in testing, so it reflects a program rather than a lucky litter.
Foothill Kennel also:
- Remains an active NAVHDA member
- Hip tests each adult dog and will not breed or keep any dog with marginal hips
- Matches puppies to owners by temperament and by how each owner hunts
That matching matters in west Michigan, where one hunter spends October in dense grouse cover and another spends November in a layout blind on the big lake.
How does a pudelpointer do as a family dog in Grand Rapids?
Well, for an active family: the breed is friendly, trainable and good with children, and it relaxes at home once it has had daily exercise and some work to do. Pudelpointers want to be with their people and learn quickly, which makes them easy to include in family life.
Their harsh, wiry coat is low-shedding and water-resistant. It needs only occasional brushing and holds up to snow, sand and brush. Expect to budget time most days for exercise, whether that means walks along the river trails, retrieving practice or training drills.
How do I reserve a pudelpointer from Grand Rapids?
Call 678-316-6780, send an inquiry through the contact page, and check the upcoming litters page. Litters are small and reserved early, so reach out well ahead of the season you have in mind. For questions about getting your puppy to Grand Rapids, call the breeder at 678-316-6780 and he will work out the details with you.
Grand Rapids pudelpointer FAQ
How far is Grand Rapids from Foothill Kennel?
About 614 miles in a straight line, a long day’s drive to Flowery Branch, Georgia.
Where can I find pudelpointer puppies near Grand Rapids?
Foothill Kennel is a strong option. Call 678-316-6780 to ask about the next litter.
Do pudelpointers make good duck dogs on Lake Michigan?
Yes. They swim well, retrieve naturally and have a coat built for cold water.
What makes Foothill Kennel a top hunting dog breeder for west Michigan?
NAVHDA Breeders Awards in 2013 and 2017, and dogs that have scored at or near maximum in NAVHDA tests.
Are gun dogs for sale at Foothill Kennel all year?
Litters are planned and small, so the upcoming litters page is the best guide to timing.
Pudelpointer puppies across Michigan
Foothill Kennel also serves pudelpointer buyers in Detroit, Warren, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor. See all pudelpointer breeders in Michigan, our upcoming litters, or contact the breeder – 678-316-6780.