Introducing a young dog to hunting

[mike]

Long term I am looking to compete in FT in the UK. With that in mind Harley was taken on a FT training day last week. With plenty of game about he hunted, pointed, flushed and retrieved. Under the advice of the chap who was taking the day (Steve Chant, breeder of the UK's only currently living Weim FT Champ) I let Harley have his head and he is now switched on to game and hunting.

The question I should have asked on the day was how long do I let this continue? (Harley is 14 months) and how do I start to influence him when his ears have switched off (i.e. when his nose has switched on ) He certainly is getting keener and hunting harder each time we go out (he is ranging much further afield now as well and not bothered by cover, the large amount of blood the other day is testament to that ) and the initial absolute deafness has changed to only partial deafness (which switches to total deafness in the event of him picking up game scent )

So what's next guys (and gals)

[aktyson]

Hi Mike,

I don't know what the requirements are in the UK for a finished dog but here in the US I would let the dog "have his head" until he is pointing and holding game until you are able to get ahead of him and flush birds. At that point if the dog is mentally mature enough I would start the finishing process.

Anne

[marjolein]

Mike, this is a very difficult question. Why? Because there is no rule opf thumb for this. One dogs needs this for a couple of weeks max., another dog might need a couple of months. I think it's quite difficult for someone who just starts with fieldwork to decide when the time is there for your dog.
What yoy try to achieve with this, is a dog who is very, very eager for game. Beware of hare and rabbit though. He shouldn't be eager for them.
Im not sure if the pointing should be the turning point, like Anne said. She might be right, if the dog is already very eager to find game, i.e cover the field properly.
I think the best advice is to call the guy who did the course and ask him what he thinks. He has seen Harley and I think he's the one to answer your question.
Please keep us updated Mike, I love to read about it!!!!!

[mike]

I'll have to do that MAr, just a bit shy thats all

[marjolein]

Please don't be shy Mike. The only way to learn this, is to ask loads of questions.

[moonbeam]

Mike,

I think Steve would be pleased to have you call. I'm sure as a trainer he appreciates having feedback. You will be able to let him know what progress you have made so far and he can discuss what your next steps should be.

Mariy

[mike]

Got Steves number now so will give him a ring shortly and report on my new instructions