Trad - the formative years"

[IRISHWISTLER]

There are so very many factors that go into the making of an accomplished gundog. I am a strong advocate for early exposure training of pups both in regard to socialization and in exposing them to as many hunting related scenarios as are possible (that excluding premature exposure or improper conditioning to gunfire).


TRAD came into me life on 10/24/13 and we have worked together as a team starting that very day.


TRAD had plenty o' time just to be a pup, yet he was started down the road of training early, many of the lessons were designed to teach TRAD how to learn and to thoroughly enjoy the process. Planned success is a critical factor in the training model I utilize to build confidence and the motivation to learn.


TRAD had lots of early exposure to birds of various species and their associated scents. He learned early that birds were good, highly desirable, and that his ability to chase and retrieve them meant fun / reward

.

TRAD learned to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions and that we hunt in the sun, rain, snow, and during widely varying temperature ranges. His entire first year with me starting in October in New England included time spent outdoors learning to handle what the elements of nature tossed our way.

All of these experiences are critical factors in how TRAD approaches so many of the complex tasks and behaviors he must learn as a competent gundog. Consider this when starting new pups, early and frequent exposure to all of that which they will encounter in the field will help you build a better pup. Make each trip afield fun and an adventure for them and let them problem solve their way out of things that challenge them along the way. Use planned success strategies to set the pup on course for success, not failure. Teach, don't test.

Cheers Mates,
Irishwhistler

[POPTOP]

Wise advice. It even extends to those of us who don't hunt. Socializing a dog to the environment he will be living in will make him a happy, confident dog. Archie was not socialized and I am playing catch up with him. A shy, scared dog can become a biter defending itself from a perceived danger. To me, nothing is more rewarding fun that see each dog blossom with confidence and enjoy the world they live in.

[sparky]

Love your pictures of such a handsome boy. Agree 100% A well socialized dog is a happier dog. Mocha has been lots of places with mom and dad. He has always been such a good boy. Mocha loves the snow!

[Jollymolly]

Hes a real cutie as a pup. You got him started young

[IRISHWISTLER]

Hes a real cutie as a pup. You got him started young

Getting them started right out of the shoot is a good thing. Ye need to "read the pup" and keep it at a pac they can thrive with. A training axiom that I follow closely is "MAKE HASTE, SLOWLY". It works well for me.

Irishwhistler