Dog Health Questions: How to train a hunting dog?

My brother-in-law just bought a new chocolate lab, Belle. He is an avid duck hunter and plans to use Belle to retrieve the ducks. However, he was called Wednesday with a last minute notice that he had to report to Ohio to work. We live in Louisiana so obviously he won't be able to work with Belle while she is still young. Before he left he asked if I would work with her, since my sister has a young baby. Without hesitation, I agreed! Afterwords, I began to realize I have NO dog training experience. I have never had a dog or any other pet for that matter. I know nothing about duck hunting or what a duck hunting dog is required to do. A private trainer is out of the question because of the expense.

Any tips on basic obedience, advanced training, gear, treats, or anything else would be GREATLY appreciated! Thanks so much!

Effective Dog Training by Using Collar and Leash

Recommended Answer:
I train hunting dogs for a living. All kinds. The first thing is to let that little puppy get used to some water by pure instinct he should love to swim and the water in general. Be sure to supervise him while he does this.
Make sure he has a problem with ducks, a big one. Buy a duck or something that mimics a duck and make sure he has some form of prey drive for it, that he wants to go get it.
Now just the same you want to get him used to gun shots perhaps take him to a shooting range.
Also make sure he wants to play with toys this will help later


You Can buy some trainer dummies off of Cabelas that look just like a dead duck bobbing in the water, develop a word that no one would say normally to represent "go fetch" as if he does here that command he will be in the water looking for whomever. As soon as you throw it say that word and he will learn when you say that work it means go time.
You can get all training supplies at Cabelas.com
If you ever encounter any problems just e-mail me at Komodofrenzy@aol.com

Free Dog Training Tips - Train Your Dog

• Throw the dog a toy. Maybe a tasty toy then lure him with a treat. Then he will think that when he fetches something he will get a treat if he brings it back.


• Boy!!! You're screwed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!