Dogs and training

[biggamefish]

  How long do you guys wait to start training your dogs to be in the field???

[CNYlungbuster]

I guess that depends on what you mean?  Are you asking at what age do you want to make to trasition from inside to outside?  Or are you asking at what age should you start training on live birds and such?

[Doewhacker]

I started Gus as soon as we got him. I got him started on wings and now he is on to live birds. We got him at 16 weeks. He will not be hunted until next year, but that depends on the dog from what I gather. Some are ready at 6 months, some 2 years.

[biggamefish]

I am asking both questions

[CNYlungbuster]

As long as the obediance is good inside and thier are no control issues start them outside and on live birds as soon as possible.  Your can't have a bird dog with out birds!!!!  Now don't just take him out and throw a live bird in front of him.  Start with a dead frozen bird and then a thawed one and then so on and so forth.  Make sure your reading your dog and how he's reacting to these things.  If he is hesitent trasitioning from a harnessed bird to a flapper go back to the harnessed bird until he's ready for a flapper.  Basically use common sense don't rush things and you'll have a great dog.

Good luck and keep us posted

CNY

[biggamefish]

Hey thnaks for all the info.  I am sure I will back on to ask more questions.  I will keep you all updated.