Training the Pointing Labrador

In this episode, from the position of judge all 3 days, I try to tell the story of the event.  From literal descriptions of the setups, the performances, the emotions and the energy, I try to share what we all experienced this past Labor Day Weekend.  In short, phenomenal dogs and gifted handlers.  The music was definitely playing....

In this episode, happening just before a couple of important national events, I address two topics arising recently. 1.  Ideas for staying calm and focused (at least as much as possible) while running the big event.  2. What is a 'good judge'?  Most of us think we are... but what are some things to think about as a judge?

 

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In this brief episode, I address 3 questions asked recently by a person in search of a puppy:

1. How do you know whether to get a male or a female?

2.  How do you tell if your pup points or not?

3. What do you do after you get it and it points, what then?

Just my experiences I use to answer, but these are very common concerns.

In this episode, we talk about the components to your training and your dog, flushing or pointing, necessary to have a safe, efficient and very enjoyable upland hunt.  Waterfowl as well of course.  Most of the elements we train for to compete serve equally well for the hunter:  diligence to go as directly as possible to the bird, desire to waste as little unnecessary energy as possible, and the understanding that this is an activity done with you, not in spite of you.  Not hard if you train with these things in mind...

In this episode, I address the issue of a 6 month old puppy pulling on the leash and "ignoring" training pressure, along with getting a pup to retrieve with treats.  Differences in training philosophies usually just comes down to personal preferences and perspectives.  An interesting discussion...

In this episode, we talk about how to get ready for the APLA National, held at a bit of an elevation at Labor Day.  Dog fitness, what is involved in this 3 day event, knowledge of rules, handling 3 upland days in row..... etc., etc.  It's a huge accomplishment to qualify for this and a really huge accomplishment to be a finisher. Let's get you as ready as possible!  Listen on...

In this episode, given a question from a listener about when and how to "correct" a dog doing the wrong thing, I break down a perspective and approach on the subject of teaching and training.  It's a significant aspect of our daily training activities.

In this episode I breakdown the problem and solution approach for two things:  1.  A dog that will not get out from underfoot to hunt and 2. A dog that will run through any collar pressure to chase a bird.  Oddly similar approach to what seems to be opposite issues.

In this episode, I use a problem a person had with their dog that stemmed from a lack of trust, instead of any inadequacy on the dogs' part.  Often, we overlook the importance of teaching the dog they can always count on our consistency and honesty... puppies and advanced dogs.

In this episode, I discuss responses I received from the puppy raising podcast and talk briefly about breeding and often unwanted dogs.