Gundog Training Forum

Hi Joshua! It’s great when things come together and acquiring a dog is in the cards again. Been there.

Give up the treats…they’re obviously working against you. It takes some understanding and good observation to see what one is reinforcing. As you say, work intuitively with the fur skin ball, tug and following you along walks, if possible, free from restraint. If not, a long light tether that can be...

Hi! Just a few thoughts: have you tried having her hunt in cover for a dummy or ball in the vicinity of your position? Just a high toss with no arc. Another one - will she play tug with a dummy or ball attached to a small rope? Lastly, when attempting a short retrieve outdoors, do you allow her to r...

Hi and welcome! How old is the dog presently? And why have you been throwing liver treats for the dog to hunt? A hunter only requires the chance to hunt to reinforce or bring out what is already instinctive. Usually our problem is getting the dog to run straight for a retrieve and back.

My advice, be suspect of the above.

Another thing to do periodically is to cross swimming water for a spaniel and go to the far bank. Should be no need to recall, a pup will want to be with you. Note: slow moving water that requires a very short swim is plenty to build confidence.

I agree with all that Munsty has advised. Just to add, my current dogs, one a 14 year old senior male lab was a very slow and tentative pup around water however turned out to be a respectable on waterfowl. My second dog, also a male springer started out water wary but soon after always hit the water...

Calm demeanour, most likely involves concise and clear communication with no ambiguity and no negotiation which is the essence of training. Some people have it naturally or are able to learn.

It seems the amount of wildlife that may flourish cannot get in the way of an ideology of hunting is outdated. The side effect of being removed from the land and nature promotes that all death is bad even naturally occurring.

Keep walking and stay quiet even after he shows reluctance to continue. When he relaxes and walks confidently praise him lightly. You can start by using a decoy person to lure him pass the sticking points as you’ve indicated. Don’t coddle or reassure the reluctant or fearful dog. Praise and reassure...