Re: GUNDOG-L Digest - 22 Jul 2005 to 26 Jul 2005 (#2005-113)
I had to respond to this post. You should not have to teach a Pointer
to point - ever. Pointing is an instinct, not a trained command. And the
steps you mention below are teaching the dog to WHOA, not POINT. You say
your setter is only six months old but has already been to a pro. Sounds to
me like you need to loosen up that lead a little and just let him have fun.
How about just letting him enjoy being exposed to a couple birds, playing,
chasing, and only firing a few blanks before you try any strict formal
training? Repetitive commands given too early and often, rather than
letting the dog develop himself, are a good way to take the style out of any
dog. You also said this pup was from the "top breeder" in the breed - give
them a call too. They ought to be glad to help you.
Cathy Davidson
Remington Pointers
Larry wrote:
You have to teach a pointer to point. The first step is to put him on
the trainig table with a tethered live bird in front of him and teach
him whoa. Personally, I think whoa (woah?) sounds too much like no, so
I use 'tip' instead. I try to use easily distinguishable commands that
the dog can decipher at 50 yards while I am using a low voice.
Larry
>Bird Dog wrote:
>
>> I guess I am looking for a measure of peace of mind. We have a six month
old
>> Llewellen setter from the nation's top breeder. We have gone from the
bird
>> wing to the professional trainer to shooting pen raised quail over him.
So
>> far he shows no more enthusiasm for quail than for butterflies. He has
yet
>> to show a true point, more a hesitation and rush in. In other words, no
fire
>> in the belly.
.
