Gun Dog Training Basics Explained
submitted: 2008-04-08 12:09:56 |
by: RebeccaFoxton
Total views: 16 |
Word Count: 393 |
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Anyone who has watched a hunter and his dog can sense the deep bond between them. The hunting dog responds to every command with speed and precision. It takes time and patience to reach this level, but the result is well worth the effort.
Hunting Retrievers: Certain retrievers, such as the Labrador and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling retrievers, have purposely been bred to be good gun dogs for hundreds of years, but that doesn't guarantee that they will be any easier to train now than they were then.
The Basic Commands: Instructions on a basic level, such as Whoa, No, Kennel, Sit and Come, are necessary for the dog to be completely familiar with. It is vital that your dog know and obey each of these commands before field training can commence. If your dog doesn't follow your commands when he is on a leash, he definitely would not obey when he is off his leash and running free. Do not try to train your dog at home; he needs a realistic situation out in the field.
Start Field Training: Your dog's field training can begin once he or she has been taught not to fear gun noise. Initiate the training by using a dummy. Beginning the process with a dummy is a great way to let your dog get the hang of what he is meant to do before he starts trying to retrieve birds.
Dummy Training Methods: Be sure to choose a dummy that is suitable to your dog. Dummies may be made of plastic or fabric and some are made to look like game birds. You'll know he's ready when your dog has learned to gently retrieve the dummy without shaking or damaging it.
Sometimes switching from the dummy to a real bird confuses or upsets the dog; just switch back to the dummy and add some feathers and streamers similar to the bird you are hunting and work with him for a few more days. A decoy streamer will copy the movement of a bird that is not quite dead, so that your dog will not be scared when he comes across the real thing.
Decoys: Transition to the real bird slowly if your dog shows fear the first time he is asked to retrieve it. You can even get a stuffed duck or pheasant from a taxidermist and use it as a decoy dummy.
About the Author
Author Rebecca Foxton wants to help you bring your pet brilliant direction with Gun Dog Training. Check out her nutrition tips for people with dogs and cats and visit her FortiFlora article series on Dog Buffs.
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