[Stephen Whitley]

How do you like to introduce your pups to birds and guns? I haven't done this in 8 years so I am just looking for some ideas that may be better than mine. When my older dog was a few months old I teased her with a wing clipped pigeon, and had her do short retrieves with it. Once I was positive she loved it I threw it for her and fired a .22 blank. That worked pretty well. Now, I have this 5 month old male from Lean Mac/Nitro lines and I REALLY don't want to do anything stupid! He seems to be a really good dog at this point and I prefer to keep him that way! I located some pigeons today that I can buy fairly cheap. Saturday afternoon is the big day for Rocky to get his first taste of a live bird...hopefully not TOO tasty if you know what I mean! I know he should have been on birds earlier but work and twin babies have put a damper on training. But, it's getting better everyday now!!!

 

[HuntinDawg]

Has he had dead birds yet? I would start with a dead bird before I would use a live one. And don't make a big deal of it if he is afraid or disinterested at first. It is just happy fun time.

As for the gunfire, avoid starting with pistol or rifle ammo (even blanks). The "crack" of a pistol or rifle shot is more alarming/painful or whatever than the "boom" of a shotgun shot. Start at a significant distance from the shooter (like at least 100 yards). Have the pup on lead so he can't bolt. Signal for the shot and reassure him after the shot. Even if he doesn't seem to need reassuring, like if he perks up and looks in the direction of the shot, praise him. As long as he is showing no sign of alarm, gradually move closer. You can also flip a happy bumper or give a treat after each shot. Again, don't make a big deal if it doesn't go just right - happy fun time.

Good luck.