Gundog Training Forum

At 6 months old the emphasis is still on Fun!....From the the kennel to the training area and back,
........................
Including the start where the young dog looks forward to pushing it's head into the lead.


We are using the 'slip collar' and lead, this will help when so that the dog doesn't get confused or learn that when the lead comes off it is a sign to Go!
It also helps at this early stage to put in the triggers when retrieving,without 'faffing' about with the lead off the head.


Heelwork is a work in progress,and will remain so for many weeks yet!..but they no longer pull,nor sniff whilst walking on lead at your side.


Memory retrieves are done on flat easy to to find places ,and with a full size dummy with no toggles.

The slip collar' allows you the opportunity to install the triggers and ques which the dog is unconsciously learning for a blind!

Even although she is returning at 'full pelt' ,the re-call whistle is still used ....this avoids any other possible distraction on the way back,and further ingraining the recall.

A delivery to hand is all that is asked or expected at this early stage!..the Sit present',will come later for these two.

Marked retrieves are always done into cover!!! never on flat ground where the dog finds by sight!..(that was done when they were eight weeks old)...and after all?.It's why we have a gundog.


The stop whistle gets attention ! and is always followed with a command ,for a retrieve that can easily be had!..whether that be 'back', left or right.



And of course! If it is a fun game?> then the dog is only too happy to bring it to you,...So you can both do it all again!

Just found this topic - brilliant.
Great seeing the progress of these labs from someone who knows what their doing.
Subbed to your youtube channel as well.
Looking forward to the next installment!

'slip collar' and lead

Now thats not something I have heard of before and very interesting from knowing what my older dog did and does when the 'slip lead' is removed.

From the the kennel to the training area and back

Would have LOVED to see a video of that ..........pictures much appreciated all the same.

Fantastic thread and highly educational. Not just for me - my cocker pup has been loving sitting on my lap so that he can watch the clips. No need to bother training him now, thanks!

Bloody hell they've grown!

Well it was such a nice day today!...I thought I would introduce the pups to the Remote launcher!
They have had shot, introduction ,and they have been on a shoot ,all be it' at long distance and no way to relate that shot to any retrieving!,Until Now!?

Cassie ,if you remember was shy' showing signs of insecurity,and timid as a pup?
But I think ,now that this retrieving Fun game is well and truly established,she now has no signs of this previous puppy behaviour.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SUaPwr0prk

Dee, was the Bold pup!...Just goes to show you that the characteristics in puppy' can change as they develop through the early stages of adolescence !
She ,is not so confident on the hold ,or the hold on to! with the return!....But a little change in Your body movement, can fix this!! to get the desired effect for both Dog and handler.
The last few minutes of this clip may be funny?....but hey?....If it works
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3opPKEw3b8

In both training sessions ,I am not after a complete picture of retrieving at this stage!,,But I am after all the triggers and cues to be shaped,and understood by the young dog!....They don't know what the 'Final' picture is!.....I do

they're looking really good Pol!

Thanks Alice,
It appears to be going to 'plan'!....
They were born at the right time/season,and the early stuff was at the right time of year.
There is no rush!...For these two will be finished ,ready for the Grouse next August ...at 15 month old!

Cheers for sharing,

Quite a few wee tips in there that you do naturally that get 'the desired effect' that will help me.

I can't see the videos.. any suggestions?