Training a retriever duck-hunting dog is a pursuit that builds an unbreakable bond between the owner and the dog. To begin with the dog must have a solid foundation of obedience once it has matured beyond the puppy stage. It is helpful to ensure the dog spends as much time as possible in the outdoors. Getting plenty of exercise and honing its native curiosity.
The hallmark of a well-trained retriever duck hunting dog is the ability to accomplish a “blind” retrieve, or to locate a bird the dog did not see fall. This requires a unique trust between master and dog. The dog must learn to trust that the handler will direct him to the fallen game.
Hunting dogs are first taught to fetch the bird and return directly to the handler. After that the dog is taught to “take a line”. The importance of this skill is to teach the dog to take the most direct route to the bird.
Running your dog on lines such as a grassy area changing into a cornfield or a field changing into a mud flat can cause problems. Changes such as the above can act as a barrier stopping the dog. And lines going through a stream or into a lake can be the biggest challenge of all.
Because of these challenges the handler needs to locate various training grounds which provide the correct changes of cover and water. Learning to carry the line through fields into water and beyond to retrieve the bird will result in your dog leaping off the bank into the water because your dog will become so confident and eager to go.
“Handling is another important skill for retriever hunting dogs. If a dog is “on line” to the bird and suddenly veers off course the dog can be stopped by a whistle command and wait until the hunter gives a hand signal which directs him back on line. It is the handler’s job to place the dog in the most advantageous location to retriever the bird. Learning to work together as a team is the ultimate communication which results in the greatest satisfaction for both dog and handler.
You probably have had many occasions where a cripple has landed far beyond the birds he has been retrieving. It is a must that you get that bird but your dog has not seen the bird and has no knowledge that it is way out there. This is where your lessons will pay off as you send your dog on a line handling him through the difficulties and placing him in a position where he can wind the bird.
After accomplishing a retrieve as described above you will come home with extra pride in your heart and your dog will probably get a steak dinner.
