For some, the idea of having their male hunting dog sire a litter seems like a good way to preserve that emotional bond and carry it into the future. For others, it’s a well-meaning but misguided attempt to create a carbon copy of their cherished companion.

While I have no regrets about the pups I’ve welcomed into my home over the years, I’ve seen many unfortunate situations in my career where new sporting dog owners didn’t do their homework. You owe it to yourself—and to your future dog—to learn from a few of these mistakes.