Training the Pointing Labrador

#114 New Video Series and Listener Questions

In this episode, a little self promotion about the video series and coaching, and then a few listener questions on what your dog needs before getting professional training, and the Holy Grail of dog training: the problem solving ability of basic obedience.

#113 Getting Ready for the Test Season

In this episode we talk about the mental and literal preparation for having a Very Good Day at your event.  Always based on thorough planning and strong fundamentals,  successful days can be readily planned for and achieved.

#112 The Power of Using Praise Correctly

In this episode, we dissect the usage of praise in dog interactions and dog training.  It can be a very powerful tool, or just some more of the background noise.  Think about how it works with you, and often it is similar for your animal.

#111 More on Pointing

In this episode, we talk about developing point; can pointing be taught, how much time does this take, etc.  So much information about pointing retrievers out there, and so much of it isn't that helpful.  Here we try to break this down a little and understand it from the dog's perspective.

#110 I'm Back, What's Ahead and Listener Questions

After an exciting June and Facebook attack, I'm back to the podcast with an explanation of what happened and discussion of the new Video Series, and several overdue listener questions.

#109 Part III Becoming a Little Bit Better Dog Trainer

In this third episode about trying to improve your training efforts and relationship with your dog, we talk about evaluating your own strengths and weaknesses and how they impact your dog and your training efforts.  Interesting topic if you don't mind a little introspection.

#108 Part II Becoming a Little Bit Better of a Trainer

In this episode, we talk about framing the best mindset before beginning a training session, whether it is a large group session or just you and your dog.  Where do you replace responsibility for mishaps and poor performances and how do you get the most you can from any training session?  Most good training occurs when externals are not a part of your work, but instead you develop the strong connection and awareness with your canine student.

#107 Part I Becoming Just a Lttle Bit Better of a Dog Trainer

In this first of a small series on improving as a trainer and a handler, we discuss teaching how to give more responsibility to your dog for making the right decisions and choices while working. Ultimately we all want a dog that knows what to do and does the work on their own, both in the field and at home.  This begins with the new pup and carries throughout all the work and interactions you have with your dog.

#106 Listener Questions, Puppy Edition

In this episode, we talk about getting a puppy to come when called; disciplining a pup; pups and playing with other dogs and finally, What makes a puppy happy.

#105 Beginning Cold Blind Retrieves

In this episode, we talk about the challenge of running cold blind retrieves from the dog's perspective.  Tools for running blind retrieves are taught in the double t.  Pattern blinds allow the practice of these tools, developing confidence and identifying where your dog is weak or strong in their behaviors.  Cold blinds are where we put all this into play, in an activity that in the beginning, can be very confusing for a dog.  Lots to think about on our dog's behalf.