What You Need to Know About Gundog Training

Are you ready to get that new Labrador pup of yours trained for hunting? This article will get you started on the right path of understanding just what gundog training entails. It will set you up with some basic knowledge on skills, strategies and resources to guide you towards success!?

Gun dogs are used to hunt all types of game. The strategies utilized for gundog training are primarily based on the kind of work the dog is expected to do.

Retrievers are utilized to search and rescue game that has been shot specifically when hunting waterfowl. In order to perform as a gun dog, a Labrador retriever should be trained to perform specific behaviors and tasks, these include:

• Quarter
• Delivery
• Mark downed game
• Shake on Command
• Perform a blind retrieve
• Remain under control

When choosing a Labrador retriever for training, consideration is given to some specific traits that are needed in the training process, these include:

• Desire and drive
• Socialization
• Hardiness
• Soft-mouth
• Nose
• Marking and Memory
• Docility

Bird dog training differs among handlers and breeds. Soon after a pup is weaned, the training for hunting can be immediately started, which takes around 10 to 12 weeks. A puppy is encouraged to look for treats that are concealed in the handler抯 pockets. The puppy is taught that he is rewarded for using his sense of smell in this manner. Then, the pup is usually introduced to a game bird in a cage. During this stage, the young dogs already manifest a natural tendency to point. In bird dog training, handlers encourage the pointing behavior of the dog through the use of games.

The gundog training process usually begins when the dog is still a puppy. During the training, the retriever is taught a set of different skills. The following are the key points during the training:

• Diversions ?ignoring distractions and continue with the work at hand
• Obstacles ?overcoming obstacles such as downed logs, heavy cover, sunken tree limbs and many other
• Boats ?entrance and exit a boat with little disturbance and to sit calmly while on board a boat
• Guns and fire ?retrievers are thought the skill in ignoring gunfire
• Water ?young retrievers are introduced to water in order to build their confidence in it

All throughout the gundog training process, the dogs are exposed to different environments and various circumstances that would help them in coping and perseverance with the rigors of hunting.