Networking. Find a local hunting dog club- there are many. Some clubs focus on one breed, some on type (pointers, retrievers, versatile etc). My preferred is the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) which has 90+ clubs in the US and Canada. I have been a member for a little over 10 years. Even if you do not own a dog attend local events which are almost always on weekends for working folks. Speak to a club officer and offer to volunteer to assist with a training day or test day. You will meet men and women who love dogs and a majority who hunt. Get to know them. Through this networking you will learn about different upland opportunities, how others manage a busy work life yet raise and train their own dogs. You will likely find breeders with some well bred dogs and proven track records. I have made some great friends over the years. And I've even had some sweet new coverts shared with me. It's just a thought...
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