What age should you start gundog training?

You can start foundational training for a potential gundog right from puppyhood, but formal, specialized gundog training typically begins a bit later. Here's a breakdown:

Early Foundations (8 weeks - 6 months)
This period is crucial for building the groundwork, focusing on socialization and basic obedience rather than specific gundog tasks. Key activities include:

  • Socialization: Exposing the puppy positively to various sights, sounds, environments, people, and other steady dogs. 

  • Basic Obedience: Teaching commands like sit, stay, recall (come when called), and walking nicely on a lead. 

  • Building Bonds: Developing a strong relationship with your puppy through play and positive interaction.

  • Introduction to Retrieve: Making retrieving fun! Use soft toys or puppy dummies in short, exciting sessions. Focus on enthusiasm, not formal delivery yet.

  • Whistle Introduction: Gently introduce basic whistle commands (e.g., stop, recall) associated with actions.

  • Environmental Exposure: Getting the puppy comfortable with different terrains (grass, woods, shallow water - if safe and warm).
Key takeaway:
Keep sessions short, fun, and positive. Avoid pressure or overly formal drills at this age. 
Starting More Formal Training (Around 6-9 months onwards) Once the pup has a good grasp of basic obedience, is reasonably mature physically and mentally, and has good focus, you can begin introducing more specific gundog skills:

  • Steadiness: Training the dog to remain calm and still, especially when other dogs are working or dummies/game are falling. 

  • Marked Retrieves: Improving retrieving skills, focusing on accurate marking (watching where the dummy falls) and delivery to hand. 

  • Hunting Instinct Development: Encouraging natural hunting patterns in a controlled way.

  • More Advanced Whistle Work: Refining stop and directional commands.

  • Introduction to Obstacles: Working through different types of cover and potentially water retrieves (if not done earlier).
Important Considerations:
  • Individual Variation: Dogs mature at different rates. Some may be ready slightly earlier or later depending on breed and individual temperament.

  • Patience is Key: Gundog training is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't rush the process.

  • Avoid Pressure: Especially in the early stages, too much pressure can put a dog off training.

  • Professional Guidance: Consider joining a local gundog club or working with an experienced trainer. They can provide tailored advice for you and your dog.
In summary, start with socialization and basic obedience from puppyhood, gradually introducing more formal gundog exercises from around 6-9 months onwards, always adapting to your individual dog's progress and keeping it positive.

For questions or further information on Gundog Training Contact Steve on 07795 466007 for an informal chat.