How much does a trained hunting dog cost?
Hiring a professional retriever trainer can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000+ per month and good hunting and/or competition training programs last 3-6 months. So, training is a significant investment.
Can you train any dog to be a hunting dog?
Although there are many adult dogs that are trained to hunt waterfowl, it is generally best to train your own puppy. Not only will a puppy allow you the time to train the dog for your hunting style, starting with a puppy will also ensure a loyal dog that is bonded and conditioned to its owner.
How long does it take to train a hunting dog?
Depending on what kind of training you are looking for, hunting or competition, training programs for retriever breeds average 3-6 months or longer. Our hunting programs here at Otter Tail Kennels, for basic hunting are 10-12 weeks.
How do you pick a good hunting dog?
You want a pup that’s friendly, outgoing, and neither significantly larger nor significantly smaller than its littermates. You also want a pup that’s eager to make eye contact. As trainer Bob West says, “A pup that won’t look you in the eye is like a person who won’t look you in the eye.
Can you train a 2 year old dog to hunt?
Learn how long it takes to train a hunting dog. If you do not have the time, tools, and knowledge, then enlisting the help of a professional is probably the best course of action. Many professional trainers prefer to start a retriever’s training when the dog is 7-months to 2 years in age.
How do you discipline a hunting dog?
Get in the habit of commanding your dog to “heel” at the start and end of each hunt. By the time you’re halfway through the season he should be pretty solid, but once you give him a “heel” command, don’t let him wander away until you release him. If he strays, hit the continuous button until he returns to your side.
Can you ruin a hunting dog?
“All hunting-related training starts with proper gunfire introduction and there is no way to more quickly ruin a dog than rushing this step,” Dokken says. “Ninety-nine-percent of the time gunshyness is not curable, so you’ve got to plan for positive reinforcement and gradual exposure to gunshots.
What’s the best age to train a dog?
Young puppies have short attention spans but you can expect them to begin to learn simple obedience commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “stay,” as young as 7 to 8 weeks of age. Formal dog training has traditionally been delayed until 6 months of age.