Training Tips for Young Bird Dogs

     Well the grouse number are up!  At least all the reports I've heard suggest this fact.  Opening day is coming soon and it's time to fine tune that young bird dog.  All that yard training you did this summer will prove invaluable this fall. 

Tip#1:  Keep training sessions short!
Twenty minutes a day is much more productive than 1-2 hours a week. 

Tip#2:  Keep It Fun!
Remember it's just a pup, and youwill get better results.

Tip#3:  Conditioning!
Early grouse season usually means temps in the 80's.  If you are reading this newsletter I would bet your bird dog is a Gordon Setter.  Gordons excel in cold freezing conditions.  However, Gordons do not take the heat well.  Carry water with you, this is not an option, it's a must.  Assess for signs of overheating such as swaggering gait and lethargy.  Take frequent breaks.  Hunt along streams.  Your dog can cool off quickly and birds tend to congregate in heavy cover nearby.  Some people condition dogs with harnesses, but if you live in the country where fields are plentiful, a daily run is optimal.  Try to do this in early morning or late evening.

Tip#4:  Control the situation!
For example, if you planted a bird, bring the pup downwind on a check cord.  If the pup decides to break point, you can stop it. 

Tip#5  Stay positive!
Your dog wants to please you.  Play that trump card.  Negative reinforcement has it's place.  I use 90% positive and 10% negative in my training.  For example, if your dog does not come when called, stop calling it, run it down, sternly retrieve your dog, bring it to the spot where you've been calling, have dog "sit" right there and say "good dog".  Your dog will quickly learn that it can not ignore you.  You can do the same for the "whoa" command without the sitting step.  Remember don't have unreasonably high expectations and you will be pleasantly surprised.  Good Luck and have fun with your dog!!

Michael O'Neill
Owner of Meena