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good sign

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EastWaViking:
I have a 12 1/2 week old lab that I have been training, and she has been doing real well with bringing the dummy
back to me.  Tonight I decided it was time to introduce the gun to the training.  I bought some 22 short blanks and shot them while the dummy was in the air.  She didn't even blink!  Straight to the dummy and running right back to me.  I think I'm on the road to having a pretty good dog.  I will work my way up to full 12 gauge loads slowly over the next month or two.

Any advice from experienced gun dog owners/trainers?

thanks

Gutpile:
I used to just have my wife hole the pup back and I went 20-30 yards away and started banging away with the 12 she'd slowly come towards me playing with the dog to keep it occupied. At first he was a bit skiddish but turned out to be a great dog. this is no scientific method but it worked for me.

Wacenturion:
Get a helper....have him go a considerable distance away from you, say 70-80 plus yards, and as you throw the dummy have him fire the shotgun.  Then slowly move in at intervals of say 10 yards or so until he get to you and the dog. Oh and a 20 ga. is fine if you have one.
The main thing is for the pup to associate the sound with fun.....i.e ....retrieving.  Where people screw up is getting in a hurry and try shooting right over a pup that is not use to the sound and ends up spooking him.
As with everything dog training.....take your time and do it right.  Always quit the game early if he gets bored or distracted....as there is tomorrow.

Gutpile:
Forgot about that. We'd throw a dummy and shoot while it was in the air. Geez, it's been a long time. My old boy will be 15 in May. Maybe.  :dunno:  :'(

Ridgeratt:
Take you and your dog to the local trap range. Start "way" down range and let them get used to the noise and move closer as the dog feels comfortable. Just take your time and you will be able to stand right behind the line with no problems. This doesn't mean go right to the line walk the dog around to where they can hear the shot's but far enough away like the road leading into the place.

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