Pointers vs Flushers

For those who know me, I am an avid hunter. Upland birds are my main distraction. Pheasants, chuckers and quail are all available at the preserve I frequent. Some brokers take there clients golfing, mine get to go hunting. When hunting upland birds a good bird dog is a must.

There are two main classes of bird dogs, Pointers and Flushers.

A Pointer is a very active style of dog that searches out a bird moving in a rapid zig-zag pattern until it locates a bird. Then it turns into a virtual statue “pointing” towards the bird’s hiding place and holds there until the hunter approaches and gets the bird to fly. The hunter has a much more controlled shot. This style of dog is great when the terrain is difficult and walking is tough or for older hunters.

Now a Flushing dog works similarly in the zig-zag pattern as a Pointer with one main difference. When a Flusher finds a bird it continues to pursue it until the bird has no choice but to fly. If the hunter keeps up with the Flusher there is rapid action, but if you do not, the bird goes up out of range of a shot and the opportunity is lost.

Both styles of bird dogs are fun, but you must know which one you are working with or you will have very limited success.

In our businesses we have bird dogs too. Some are Pointers others are Flushers.

Most Pointers are attorneys or accountants. They have clients that need our services which they not only point out but they have the ability to hold until you can move in and complete the deal. The more you are active in this business the more pointer style bird dogs you will have.

Flushers are usually friends, family and social groups you are in. They come across people needing our services on a regular basis. They may even throw our names out there and for a brief moment the opportunity is there, but if you are not keeping up with your bird dog the opportunity for success could be lost.

Both are profitable to work with but if you plan on having success you better learn which style your bird dog is. A Pointer is more controlled, concerned about your professionalism and how you reflect on his or her reputation. A Flusher is going around and willing to help at the moment but once that moment passes they are onto something else and may not wait for you to connect with their referral.

Treat your bird dogs well and reward them for their service. Thank you notes and recognition or maybe a dinner out are great rewards for Flushers. Giving a referral or two to your Pointer will keep their nose to the ground for you. But, if you don’t follow through and show your appreciation, instead of being a successful hunter you will end up being a Setter and that dog just won’t hunt.