Common Training Programs
Head Start Programs
Head Start programs are for younger dogs of usually 4 to 6
months of age. Most programs will introduce your young
dog to live birds, pointing, check lines and whistles. Field
command are very important part of any head start program, as well
as the dog's introduction to gunfire. Head start programs
should focus on the development of the young dog's natural instincts
and not on corrections. Many trainers frown upon correcting a
young dog, especially during their development. We would like
to see these young dogs have a positive experience to build on for
the future. Head start programs vary in price, check with your
trainer choice to see if they have a head start program available
for your young gun dog.
Foundation Training
Foundation training programs are for
young dogs usually about 10 to 12 months of age. Harnessing your
dog's natural pointing instinct should be the basis for this training.
They can then be taught verbal and whistle commands and to handle in
the field without a leash. You will also find out if your dog has natural
retrieving ability as this can be strongly reinforced at this stage in training.
This training with most professional trainers should last about three months.
Steady To
Wing And Shot
This level in training your dog should be taught to be
steady to both wing and shot. Most dogs are introduced to the "hup" command.
Your dog when steady to wing and shot should handle in the field and be
retrieving to your hand.
The steadying phase in training should be done with great care by DIY type dog
trainers. Professional trainers are highly recommended because they can
help the dog alleviate any bad habits at this stage. Professional trainers
know how to read the dog and apply the exact method of steadying your dog.
Steadying is not a clear cut process that all DIY type trainers are capable of.
We highly recommend professional trainers assistance at this phase in training.
They can also be trained to honor another dog's point and stopping to wild
flushes at this phase in training.
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