notr withstanding the first couple of seasons whilst learning, a tried and tested dog in my opinion should have at least 5-6 years on its back, doing what is expected from it on a regular basis, whether that be ferreting, lamping or single handed work....... - have only ever seen one bitch that did 'everything'and has been properly tried tested on everything.....and does it regularly. Needless to say..... it is not mine unfortunatley!!!