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Gun Dog Training Books

904 views 10 replies 7 participants last post by  joellirot 
#1 ·
Anyone have recommendations on beginner gun dog training books? I'm pretty close to pulling the trigger on a puppy - probably a German Wirehired.

Cheers,
 
#6 ·
Ask the breeder. I'd also recommend that you book a few sessions with a trainer who works with that breed. Each breed has their own quirks, temperament and ability to be pushed in training while still getting results. With Labs for example I can do the same drill over and over until they totally understand the concept and they stay motivated. Not so with DDs or Wirehairs. You need to be more creative.

Re Wolter's books... Good starting point, but keep in mind it is s starting point and that they are somewhat fictional. Dick was a huge believer in "shock" collars - back when they had one speed - fry - and where truly shock collars and not remote training collars. Dick was first a gardener, then a writer, then a dog trainer. He never went into his and his group's actual training methodologies because he never would have sold any books.
 
#7 ·
Joan Bailey: http://www.amazon.com/Themselves-Taking-Advantage-Condtioned-Learning/dp/0963012746

NAVHDA green book: http://navhdastore.org/thetrainingandcareoftheversatilehuntingdog.aspx

NAVHDA main site: http://www.navhda.org/

As Marty posted in the other thread, make sure you see health certs and checks. IMO you need to understand the difference in a .29 and .59 rate on the distraction index (Penn hip) just as one example.
If you can't make it out to the breeders to watch dogs run and work, and see their personalities, ask them to shoot a little video and put it on youtube or e-mail it to you.

I'd also beware of show dog breeders( I say this because I know of no one close to you that's a know hunting GWP breeder), many of them claim to have dogs that will hunt, but their end goal is usually breed conformity and aesthetics, which could leave you with a very expensive house dog that's a boot licker out in the field.
 
#8 ·
Constructeur - all 3 of those were on my list and i ordered them today from Amazon. I'm also reaching out to some local guys i found on a forum with GWP's. hopefully, i can get some pointers/help from them.

first priority is to have a great family dog. close second is to give the dog some training for hunting.

i've found a puppy and could pull the trigger as soon as later this afternoon. just trying to arrange schedules.
 
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