THE 4 KEYS TO OFFSEASON SUCCESS WITH YOUR BIRD DOG

Micah Canapp, Chesapeake Fowl Kennels/ Maverick Outfitters

Photo by Derek Testerman

Having a dog that can hunt, compete, be a companion, or just spend time with you out in public all takes WORK! Lets cover the 4 KEY components to being successful with your hunting companion this off season. 

1. RECAP

Before anything else, take the time to Highlight the good and the bad of your dog this past hunting season so you know what to address. For example, maybe they excelled on marking but had some trouble handling to that bird that got out of there line of sight.

2. DEVELOPING A PLAN

Now that we know where our dog stands coming out of the hunting season, we can make a plan for our training Goals. This could be in preparation for next hunting season or maybe your gearing your dog up to run in some spring or summer Hunt tests. Having Realistic expectations and setting the dog up for success will keep things challenging yet fun for the both of you. 

3. ASSESSING THE FUNDAMENTALS

Any Good training program should outline the basics/foundational work for your dog. This is by far one of the most Vital components in the development of a Quality retriever. This also gives us a resource to come back to when/if we find ourselves working through an issue. A lot of times most of the issues I see with dogs and owners are all within the Basics. We must make sure these are solid before Tackling anything else or moving forward with more advanced training concepts.

4. PROPER CONDITIONING

These 4 legged friends of ours are not just our buddies, but also Athletes. We must do our part in keeping conditioning in the fore front when not in the field or running tests. Some of my favorite but in no specific order

• Swimming

• Roading

• Treadmill

• Walking/hiking

Regardless of how you do it, having a properly fit and healthy companion will be a benefit for both you and your dog!