Insider on feeding, trialing, hunting, and your most common questions, answered

In this episode of Upland Nation, host Scott Linden interviews Carl Gunzer from Purina at the 2026 Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Minneapolis. Gunzer, a former field trialer and current director of the Sporting Dog Group at Purina, shares deep insights into the world of hunt tests, field trials, and dog nutrition. He emphasizes the value of attending these events not just for competitive hunters, but for all dog owners to better understand dog genetics, training, and capability. Gunzer also discusses the science behind Purina’s ProPlan Sport Dog Food, explaining the lengthy process—often two years or more—required to develop and launch a new formula, including research, feeding trials, regulatory approvals, and supply chain planning. He offers practical advice on feeding schedules, transitioning dog food, and using Fortiflora to boost appetite and hydration, even sharing real-world examples from fellow hunters. A central theme is the importance of keeping hunting dogs as family members, advocating for them living in the house year-round to strengthen the human-dog bond and support long-term health and happiness.