Basic Commands are the building
blocks used to train the complete, versatile
hunting dog. Every dog is different and training time will vary
with age, mental
maturity and trainability of each dog. Single word commands (with
consistency)
are important to be taught before a correction is made. These
commands are
commonly taught during yard work and are most effective when
the only thing
that changes is the yard. Each of these commands should start
off with using a
verbal command. Then move towards a visual signal and then silent
commands.
Never give a command that you cannot enforce!
Whoa: (4-6 months
age) Is the most important command for pointing breeds. The
foundation we build from!
Here or Come: (10-12 weeks age) Is
a close second to "whoa." When this command is given, the response
is important.
Heel: (4-6 months
age) Remain at your side whether it’s
to the duck blind or back to the truck!
Hup (Quartering): (6-8 months age) Dog should
remain in a windshield wiper pattern from 10 o’clock
to 2 o’clock in forward
motion (key off body).
Sit (Stay): (8-12 weeks age) Very important
for control and steadiness.
Down: (8-12 months age) A command
often used for waterfowl hunting!
Play Fetch (7-8 weeks age) This should be all about fun! Do not over use and never take
retrieve from them. Always pet and praise them when they return!
Trained Fetch (Hold): (8-12 months age) Retrieve
of game or other obstacles on command for handler. Work toward
release by touch and name instead of command. There are many
methods used successfully for this training.
Give or Drop: (8-12 weeks age) Release of the game
after the retrieve is made.
Kennel: (8-12 weeks age) Using a
portable kennel or living quarters, they need to understand
this command!
Load Up: (4-6 months age) This is
a command and should be treated that way! A dog should enter
the kennel and exit their kennel on command only and not freely.
Anticipation is the biggest problem we let our dogs
get away with, and is the single most important factor that
has helped us succeed once identified in our training, trialing
and hunting of bird dogs
