dogs and how to start training

[jimmy milnes]

hi steyer 6.5
i have a GSP bitch thats comming along nicely as a deer dog, i would be the first to say that others on here have a much larger knowlege than myself on this subject, but i would say like anything just cause it works for one man "dog" doesnt mean it will work for another, ive been on a basic course which i found very good and enjoyable and will def go on the advanced one when "we're" ready for it and spoken to several people on the subject and gleened bits from all that i use if you get my drift,
if you would like to talk to some one regards GSP's on deer, try john robbo at yorkshire roe stalking he has used this breed for years is a mine of info and a nice approachable guy
what ever breed you choose all the best and stick with it like many things in life the more you do something the better you "your dog" get
kind regards
jimmy

 

[floyd]

One thing I haven't seen so far, is to join your local gundog club. I too run a GSP, from a 'difficult hard headed' line, and had her competing at working tests 3 days after she was 6mths old. This has proven to be a fantastic grounding for her, with the tests comprising of hunting, retrieving, water retrieving, it also gives great socialisation, and is a great environment for inexperienced handlers to learn more from the more experienced handlers.

One thing here is to learn firstly that the dog needs to want to work for you, whilst many will do a job out of fear/punishment, those that truly enjoy their job will do so much better, and most of this comes from reading your dog, and only you know your dog that well.

Now she is 5yrs old and stops on the whistle/gun, she will stalk and belly crawl when I do, she will wait when told and return when called/signalled/whistled. Her heelwork is solid, and she is also safe with live deer/stock.

As many have said here get the basics in first then progress to more advanced work, and THE MOST important thing imho is to be able to stop the dog, then at least you have the opportunity to get to the dog/break its concentration before any damage is done which can then take months of training to undo.

Good luck,