What are the first steps to field/scent training a labrador retriever puppy?
by Administrator
Filed under Labrador Q & A
I want to start duck hunting with my 3 month old labrador retriever, obviously i know it will be a while before he can go but i want to know how to start my training of him. any help would be great!
thanks
First, was your dog out of working lines? Or pet/show lines? If he is out of the latter, you will probably NOT have a working dog on your hands simply because the drives neccesary to be a field dog have been bred down for managability in pet/show lines. If he is out of working lines, get a professional trainer involved. The trainer will assess his natural skills, and should very frankly tell you if the dog is worth the training or not. Training a dog is not something you can learn online, so I won’t even attempt to tell you. It is something you must learn by sight and direct instruction. Contact a field dog trainer to start your pup’s foundation training.
Another note: Do not neuter the dog until he is 2 years old. Some may argue, but I firmly believe a male dog needs to mature sexually and mentally before he is neutered. Also, if he is registered, this is the age you assess him for breeding. If he does not match the standard or has an incorrect temperament, neuter him.
Buy the book “Water Dog”. This book is great for training.