Tuesday, 20 December 2011
Is an electric collar or request to jump barb wire really necessary?
In our quest to bring information to the wider gundog community within the Uk, we constantly come across training methods using the so called e-collar, most of this information comes from the US where e-collars are widely used in training gundogs.
In today's world, information on any subject comes in abundance via the internet, blogs, news alerts or social media and should always be treated with caution and evaluation.
It appears the use of the e-collar is an accepted practice in the US, but is generally frowned upon within the UK and now banned in Wales
Continue
Monday, 19 December 2011
The Working Dog
The working dog, though one species, is many different breeds all with inherent strengths bred into them. Most of those strengths were tasks that were needed and temperaments desired.
One of the first tasks given the dog was that of hunter and watchdog. The modern police, rescue, or military dog continues that tradition. Traditional K9 units and military police dogs have had the task of tracking, cornering and apprehending criminals, maintaining security, and using their heightened smell and hearing to aid officers.
To continue
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
North Western Counties FTA AV Retriever All Aged Field Trial
The writer was looking forward to this field trial as is was his first one of the 2011 season, business commitments had prevented him from entering competition during September.
NWCFTA have hosted great field trials in the past, so the writer fully expected it to attract some of the countries top gun dog handlers, I was not disappointed when looking at the running card with both John & Sandra Halsted (famous Drakeshead kennel) and John Drury (Affix Brenjon) who has also produced several field trial champions.
The Venue by Kind permission of P J Culley Esq was held at Mossborough Hall, Rainford near St Helens, Merseyside and Judges for the day were John Lees, Steve Richardson, Jimmy Swindlehurst & Lee Hartis. The chief Steward was the delightful Sue Schofield, who is also the associations secretary.
After brief introductions the field trial started with 16 Labrador Retrievers in a walk up, in very wet cover, which appeared to be a mixture of grass and wheat crop, with very few birds being presented.
After about 2 hours, the hosted decided to have a drive, which was not going to be easy with just 6 gun dogs after 2 hours of hard walking. The 16 dogs were divided up between the judges, numbers 1,2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 14 went with John Lees & Lee Hartis and numbers 3,4,7, 8, 11, 12, 15, 16 went with Steve Richardson & Jimmy Swindlehurst.
After the drive, the Judges sent number 1 for a wounded pheasant which had landed in the wood behind the guns, after a good attempt the dog was called up and number 2 was sent, which again had made a good effort but not produce the bird. The Judges then went out to inspect the area for the bird and to the competitors relieve the bird could not be found.
Number one was then sent for a bird in the barley field, which was successful and then number 2 was asked to pick a bird in a different direction in the same field which, after hunting the area number 2 was called up without the bird and number 1 was sent to the same area. After a short while number 1 was called up and dismissed for not making the area. The Judges again went out to inspect the area and no bird was found to the relieve of number 2!
Number 2 was then sent for another bird in the same field, which was successful. Number 2 was then sent to another area in the same field with a slightly longer distance which was also successful.
On the other side numbers 4 had been dismissed for not making the area and numbers 7 & 8 had been eye wiped by the judges.
At this stage is was noted there had been some mix up in procedure as number 6 had not been sent for the retrieve that numbers 7 & 8 had failed on.
The field Trial then proceeded with a further walk up, which again only produced the odd bird, during this period number 10 was put out first dog down and number 12 was believed to have ran in.
By 2pm the field trial looked like not being completed, so the host provided another drive, which produced a sufficient number of birds to complete the stake, but gave the Judges the difficult task of creating challenging retrieves in a grass field, fortunately the wind conditions were such, they created a few problems with dogs either swapping or failing to make the area efficiently.
In the second round number 2 was sent for a partridge, which proved difficult to pick in the wind conditions, but eventually the dog located the bird.
After the 2nd round a cut was made and I believe 6 gundogs remained numbers 2, 3, 5, 6, 13, 15
They were all sent for a retrieve, with the wind behind us, the Judges then deliberated and ask just invited 3 dogs into the 4th round numbers 2, 6 & 15.
Number 2 was sent to an area and the dog went of the whistle, so was called up, and numbers 6 & 15 completed their retrieves.
Number 15 Mr. C Dinsdale was awarded 1st Place with Spinnerbeck Wagtail and Mrs. Sandra Halsted was award 2nd Place with Copperbirch Otto of Drakeshead.
The writer was pleased to get to the last 3 dogs, in his first trial but more training work still required !
This report is compiled by the writer who was present at the trial and is not always in the position to see every retrieve and is not party to the Judges decisions, if any of the above is believed to inaccurate, please email the correction for publication.
NWCFTA have hosted great field trials in the past, so the writer fully expected it to attract some of the countries top gun dog handlers, I was not disappointed when looking at the running card with both John & Sandra Halsted (famous Drakeshead kennel) and John Drury (Affix Brenjon) who has also produced several field trial champions.
The Venue by Kind permission of P J Culley Esq was held at Mossborough Hall, Rainford near St Helens, Merseyside and Judges for the day were John Lees, Steve Richardson, Jimmy Swindlehurst & Lee Hartis. The chief Steward was the delightful Sue Schofield, who is also the associations secretary.After brief introductions the field trial started with 16 Labrador Retrievers in a walk up, in very wet cover, which appeared to be a mixture of grass and wheat crop, with very few birds being presented.
After about 2 hours, the hosted decided to have a drive, which was not going to be easy with just 6 gun dogs after 2 hours of hard walking. The 16 dogs were divided up between the judges, numbers 1,2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 14 went with John Lees & Lee Hartis and numbers 3,4,7, 8, 11, 12, 15, 16 went with Steve Richardson & Jimmy Swindlehurst.After the drive, the Judges sent number 1 for a wounded pheasant which had landed in the wood behind the guns, after a good attempt the dog was called up and number 2 was sent, which again had made a good effort but not produce the bird. The Judges then went out to inspect the area for the bird and to the competitors relieve the bird could not be found.
Number one was then sent for a bird in the barley field, which was successful and then number 2 was asked to pick a bird in a different direction in the same field which, after hunting the area number 2 was called up without the bird and number 1 was sent to the same area. After a short while number 1 was called up and dismissed for not making the area. The Judges again went out to inspect the area and no bird was found to the relieve of number 2!
Number 2 was then sent for another bird in the same field, which was successful. Number 2 was then sent to another area in the same field with a slightly longer distance which was also successful.
On the other side numbers 4 had been dismissed for not making the area and numbers 7 & 8 had been eye wiped by the judges.
At this stage is was noted there had been some mix up in procedure as number 6 had not been sent for the retrieve that numbers 7 & 8 had failed on.
The field Trial then proceeded with a further walk up, which again only produced the odd bird, during this period number 10 was put out first dog down and number 12 was believed to have ran in.
By 2pm the field trial looked like not being completed, so the host provided another drive, which produced a sufficient number of birds to complete the stake, but gave the Judges the difficult task of creating challenging retrieves in a grass field, fortunately the wind conditions were such, they created a few problems with dogs either swapping or failing to make the area efficiently.
In the second round number 2 was sent for a partridge, which proved difficult to pick in the wind conditions, but eventually the dog located the bird.
After the 2nd round a cut was made and I believe 6 gundogs remained numbers 2, 3, 5, 6, 13, 15
They were all sent for a retrieve, with the wind behind us, the Judges then deliberated and ask just invited 3 dogs into the 4th round numbers 2, 6 & 15.
Number 2 was sent to an area and the dog went of the whistle, so was called up, and numbers 6 & 15 completed their retrieves.
Number 15 Mr. C Dinsdale was awarded 1st Place with Spinnerbeck Wagtail and Mrs. Sandra Halsted was award 2nd Place with Copperbirch Otto of Drakeshead.
The writer was pleased to get to the last 3 dogs, in his first trial but more training work still required !
This report is compiled by the writer who was present at the trial and is not always in the position to see every retrieve and is not party to the Judges decisions, if any of the above is believed to inaccurate, please email the correction for publication.
Monday, 24 October 2011
The Best Hunting Gundogs
English Springer Spaniel
has all of the qualities required be be a top hunting breed. This medium sized dog get their name from the ability to flush out - or springing - birds from their hiding places, allowing the gun to take his shot.
The average Springer Spaniel is smaller than other gundogs at 40 - 50 pounds (18 - 23 kilograms), and 20 inches (51 cm) tall. however, what spaniels lack in size they make up for in energy.
Their energy, and strong legs make them an ideal companion for long hunting days. While their dense short undercoat covered with a long top coat can easily withstand a variety of weather and climate conditions.
Although bred primarily to flush out game, the Springer Spaniels gentle grip is ideal for retrieving prey without damage. A combination of all these qualities make the Springer Spaniel one of the best hunting dogs.
Hounds/Terriers
Hounds & Terrier dogs make a trackers job much easier, with their noise to the ground, relying on their nose to track scent rather than sight to locate the prey.
The hounds usually chase after the smaller animals like rabbits or fox, chasing the animals and barking until the hunter arrives. Hounds are around 2 feet (0.61 meters) high to the shoulder, and full of courage, making them a helpful dog even when hunting larger game like deer.
There are various breeds of hounds used in hunting including Bloodhounds, Foxhounds and Coonhounds, the later a result of breeding the first two together, combining a great sense of smell with improved speed and stamina.
The hounds thick coat also allows them to tolerate a wide range of weather conditions, comfortable in both hot and cold.
English SetterEnglish setters were originally bred as bird dogs in UK, a combination of the best qualities of spaniels and pointer dogs. They will silently track down the prey using their excellent sense of smell, the English Setter will then crouch down in wait for the masters approach rather than flushing out the birds.
Like any good hunting dog, English setters are easy to train well, and have plenty of energy, their large muscled legs let them run quickly and effortlessly across the terrain.
As English setters are such an energetic dog, they require plenty of long walks, hunting is the perfect outlet to entertain their enthusiasm. The English setters, are closely related the the Gordon and Irish setters, and are all a popular hunting choice on open moorland.
HPR's
are bred for their versatility in the hunt, working equally as well on the land or the water. Pointers are primarily known as bird dogs, however they are also skilled trackers of land game, including hare, wild pigs and deer.
HPR's like German Shorthaired Pointers, German Wirehaired, Italian Spinone, Hungarian Vizsla's are highly intelligent, making them obedient but not easy to train.
Pointers are a medium dog ranging from 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 32 kg) and 23 to 25 inches (58 to 64 cm) tall to the shoulder. The pointer's energy is apparent as they bound far ahead to locating the prey for the gun. Pointers have the best sense of smell of all the gundogs. Like the English Setter, Pointers do not flush out the prey, rather it finds it and points it out to its master - hence its name.
This dog origin comes from crossing breeding the best hunting dogs, the Spanish pointer with German scent hounds
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever, like pointers, is a well rounded gundog. Labradors are perhaps best known as water dogs due to their moisture repellent coats, and also have weblike feet helping propel them quickly through water fetching prey.
Labrador retrievers are also well equipped with intelligence and good temperament making them ideal for training. All these qualities mean Labradors, along with golden retrievers, are among the most popular breed of gundog.
Like the spaniels, retrievers have a gentle grip in their mouth, meaning they can 'retrieve' prey without damaging. Their eagerness to please means they are keen to apply themselves to other tasks for their handler, also making good trackers.
Labradors, weighing from 55 to 75 pound (25 to 34 kg), are a real all round dog, as at ease hunting pheasant & Partridge in the fields, as they are fetching ducks from icy ponds, makes them ideal gundogs, for all weather conditions.
Monday, 3 October 2011
Shropshire Gundog Training Day
Our trainer Stewart North was invited with 5 other gun dog trainers Phil Garton, Casper Jonsen, Tim Brain, June Evans, Glyn Evans by Christine Gray to Shropshire Gundog Society Training Day at Becks Bird Farm, Ellerdine Heath, near Telford. The day started at 6.30am when Phil Garton another trainer from Leicestershire kindly offered to drive.
We arrived at 8.30am to be greeted by Christine Gray who is so well organised !
The barn set out for the admin and catering, Christine had organised a proper loo for the Ladies !
The trainers were showed the various training grounds for Puppies, Beginners, Novice and Open Gundogs.
Numbers had been limited to 7, but the day was so popular most trainers had 8 dogs in each class!
Our trainer was given the task of training 8 Open gundogs:
Peter & Labrador Retriever Diesel
Roz & Labrador Retriever Gibbs
Barry & Labrador Retriever Holly
John & Flat Coated Retriever Finbarr
Julia & Labrador Retriever fly
Anthony & Labrador Retriever Pepper
David & Labrador Retriever Lottie
Denise & Labrador Retriever Blaze
After a brief introduction it transpired that not all the gun dogs had qualified as Open Gundogs, only 4 of the gun dogs had won a novice working test and one of those had won under different ownership and 2 of the gun dogs had been placed in the open class as the novice classes had been oversubscribe!
So from a training point of view it was important to establish the capabilities of the gundogs, the trainer briefly asked the owners to explain thir gundogs biggest weakness which ranged from Stop Whistle, Straight line work, Recall, Delivery issues and one dog asking too many questions! (Robots).
The area of training tasks covered, heelwork, steadiness, marking ability, handling skills, changes in cover and obstacle work.
Not wanting to have any instant failures, the gun dogs were initially asked to line up off lead to view a double mark both short and long at 50m & 100m in light cover.
Gundogs were sent in a number order with number 1 picking the short mark, then number 2 was sent for the long mark and on completion we reversed the retrieves with the same gundogs.
Not one gundog completed both retrieves without any handling!
This exercise highlighted a number of problems?
It showed those gundogs who had no marking ability?
It showed those handlers who could not mark?
It showed handlers interfering with marks, i.e poor sending techniques, not allowing gundogs to use their nose?, noisy handling?,
It showed up gundogs with poor recall,
It showed up gundogs with poor delivery,
Advice was given on all these problems.
Our trainer highlighted that a number of handlers failed to read there dogs body language, did not read the wind conditions and far too many handlers tried to pick the dummy rather than put the gundog in the best position for it succeed its self.
The gundogs were then asked to pick a mark with distraction, the retrieve on the left was over a deep ditch with heavy cover, the other mark was at 90 degrees in light cover.
A number of gun dogs wanted to hunt the ditch and handlers lost sight of their gundog, some gundogs found the ditch too much of a barrier, we discussed how we improve confidence and gundogs marking ability, some handlers stopped their gun dogs in front of an obstacle, some handlers gave instructions whilst their gundogs were in motion, some handlers just expect their gundogs to go over obstacle without instruction.
Different methods suited different gundogs!, there is not a one size fits all mentality!
The trainer highlighted the need to stop handling those gun dogs, who rely too much on the handler, he also demonstrated how to achieve a longer cast, using memory marks increasing the gundogs confidence, we covered sloppy delivery and holding techniques and the need to be more assertive when gundogs are not satisfied after completing retrieves or not willing to stop to instruction.
After lunch, we did some work holding an area, then had a mock walk up with marks and blinds using the ditch, water hazards, thick hedges and a difficult wire fence.
The students will judge the value of the training training session for their particular needs, but from the trainers point of view we tried to highlight at least one weakness, although many gundogs had several, then the trainer tried to give some brief explanation for the reason of that weakness and give guidance on how to improve that weakness.
We conclude with this brief summary;
Peter & Diesel excellent performance during the day, needs to stretch training tasks be more demanding in different covers, would expect this dog to feature in future awards.
Roz & Gibbs excellent performance during the day, this dog is packed with natural ability, be careful not get a working test mentality ~ you are handling the dog when it is not necessary.
Barry & Holly your biggest weakness is not the dog, despite whining being a fault, the trainer was more concerned about your handling and sending techniques, nerves obviously play a part, your dog would mark much better if your set up was change. It certainly has a good nose! The whining got less and less throughout the day...may be that's the answer ~ more work in more highly charged environments?
John & Finbar it was a pleasure to see a stylish flat coated retriever, which did not run in and delivered its retrieve to hand, its a pity the handler cannot read his dog properly! this dog has bags of talent, just needs more consistent handling and its stop whistle tolerance improving.
Julia & Fly very talented gun dog with a handler who needs to serve a good apprenticeship, you need to be much more assertive at times, but equally knowing when not to interfere is absolute. Standing over game is serious fault, do not make it any worse?
Anthony & Pepper another promising gun dog, handler again needs to be more assertive, in a measured way ! pepper responded well to a change in vocal tone you will need to get out to her to remind her of the recall, I would do this without a dummy initially.
David & Lottie, this is a typical talented Labrador that has been over trained, one the country's best trainers Alan Thornton once remarked to our trainer Stewart North "how long has the dog be controlling you" owners with dogs that prompt instruction falsely believe they are controlling the dog? I would like you to place less emphasis on obedience and more emphasis's on hunting, in fact forget about obedience for a while and hopefully your problem will disappear!
Denise & Blaze, need to practising a lot more marks, gundog gave trainer the impression of a good picking up dog - good nose what about its eyesight? too much short work this dog needs to be strenched and confidence improved. You need to practising longer blinds both in and out of cover as this dog loves cover too much ! we spent some time on delievry issues dont be too quick to relieve the dog of its retrieve, reward the dog whilst holding the dummy.
Throughly enjoyed the day, well done Christine and thank you helpers Stuart and Anson.
This report is published to summarise training issues and help others new to our sport to understand, these are typical gundogs problems by people who regularly train gundogs, the writer will fully understand's if any student doe not wished to be mentioned.
Sould you wish to discuss any training advice, please contact Working Gundogs
We arrived at 8.30am to be greeted by Christine Gray who is so well organised !
The barn set out for the admin and catering, Christine had organised a proper loo for the Ladies !
The trainers were showed the various training grounds for Puppies, Beginners, Novice and Open Gundogs.
Numbers had been limited to 7, but the day was so popular most trainers had 8 dogs in each class!
Our trainer was given the task of training 8 Open gundogs:
Peter & Labrador Retriever Diesel
Roz & Labrador Retriever Gibbs
Barry & Labrador Retriever Holly
John & Flat Coated Retriever Finbarr
Julia & Labrador Retriever fly
Anthony & Labrador Retriever Pepper
David & Labrador Retriever Lottie
Denise & Labrador Retriever Blaze
After a brief introduction it transpired that not all the gun dogs had qualified as Open Gundogs, only 4 of the gun dogs had won a novice working test and one of those had won under different ownership and 2 of the gun dogs had been placed in the open class as the novice classes had been oversubscribe!
So from a training point of view it was important to establish the capabilities of the gundogs, the trainer briefly asked the owners to explain thir gundogs biggest weakness which ranged from Stop Whistle, Straight line work, Recall, Delivery issues and one dog asking too many questions! (Robots).
The area of training tasks covered, heelwork, steadiness, marking ability, handling skills, changes in cover and obstacle work.
Not wanting to have any instant failures, the gun dogs were initially asked to line up off lead to view a double mark both short and long at 50m & 100m in light cover.
Gundogs were sent in a number order with number 1 picking the short mark, then number 2 was sent for the long mark and on completion we reversed the retrieves with the same gundogs.
Not one gundog completed both retrieves without any handling!
This exercise highlighted a number of problems?
It showed those gundogs who had no marking ability?
It showed those handlers who could not mark?
It showed handlers interfering with marks, i.e poor sending techniques, not allowing gundogs to use their nose?, noisy handling?,
It showed up gundogs with poor recall,
It showed up gundogs with poor delivery,
Advice was given on all these problems.
Our trainer highlighted that a number of handlers failed to read there dogs body language, did not read the wind conditions and far too many handlers tried to pick the dummy rather than put the gundog in the best position for it succeed its self.
The gundogs were then asked to pick a mark with distraction, the retrieve on the left was over a deep ditch with heavy cover, the other mark was at 90 degrees in light cover.
A number of gun dogs wanted to hunt the ditch and handlers lost sight of their gundog, some gundogs found the ditch too much of a barrier, we discussed how we improve confidence and gundogs marking ability, some handlers stopped their gun dogs in front of an obstacle, some handlers gave instructions whilst their gundogs were in motion, some handlers just expect their gundogs to go over obstacle without instruction.
Different methods suited different gundogs!, there is not a one size fits all mentality!
The trainer highlighted the need to stop handling those gun dogs, who rely too much on the handler, he also demonstrated how to achieve a longer cast, using memory marks increasing the gundogs confidence, we covered sloppy delivery and holding techniques and the need to be more assertive when gundogs are not satisfied after completing retrieves or not willing to stop to instruction.
After lunch, we did some work holding an area, then had a mock walk up with marks and blinds using the ditch, water hazards, thick hedges and a difficult wire fence.
The students will judge the value of the training training session for their particular needs, but from the trainers point of view we tried to highlight at least one weakness, although many gundogs had several, then the trainer tried to give some brief explanation for the reason of that weakness and give guidance on how to improve that weakness.
We conclude with this brief summary;
Peter & Diesel excellent performance during the day, needs to stretch training tasks be more demanding in different covers, would expect this dog to feature in future awards.
Roz & Gibbs excellent performance during the day, this dog is packed with natural ability, be careful not get a working test mentality ~ you are handling the dog when it is not necessary.
Barry & Holly your biggest weakness is not the dog, despite whining being a fault, the trainer was more concerned about your handling and sending techniques, nerves obviously play a part, your dog would mark much better if your set up was change. It certainly has a good nose! The whining got less and less throughout the day...may be that's the answer ~ more work in more highly charged environments?
John & Finbar it was a pleasure to see a stylish flat coated retriever, which did not run in and delivered its retrieve to hand, its a pity the handler cannot read his dog properly! this dog has bags of talent, just needs more consistent handling and its stop whistle tolerance improving.
Julia & Fly very talented gun dog with a handler who needs to serve a good apprenticeship, you need to be much more assertive at times, but equally knowing when not to interfere is absolute. Standing over game is serious fault, do not make it any worse?
Anthony & Pepper another promising gun dog, handler again needs to be more assertive, in a measured way ! pepper responded well to a change in vocal tone you will need to get out to her to remind her of the recall, I would do this without a dummy initially.
David & Lottie, this is a typical talented Labrador that has been over trained, one the country's best trainers Alan Thornton once remarked to our trainer Stewart North "how long has the dog be controlling you" owners with dogs that prompt instruction falsely believe they are controlling the dog? I would like you to place less emphasis on obedience and more emphasis's on hunting, in fact forget about obedience for a while and hopefully your problem will disappear!
Denise & Blaze, need to practising a lot more marks, gundog gave trainer the impression of a good picking up dog - good nose what about its eyesight? too much short work this dog needs to be strenched and confidence improved. You need to practising longer blinds both in and out of cover as this dog loves cover too much ! we spent some time on delievry issues dont be too quick to relieve the dog of its retrieve, reward the dog whilst holding the dummy.
Throughly enjoyed the day, well done Christine and thank you helpers Stuart and Anson.
This report is published to summarise training issues and help others new to our sport to understand, these are typical gundogs problems by people who regularly train gundogs, the writer will fully understand's if any student doe not wished to be mentioned.
Sould you wish to discuss any training advice, please contact Working Gundogs
Tuesday, 9 August 2011
Grade 1 Group Gundog Training Stilton, Peterborough
Workinggundogs.co.uk will run new graded gundog training courses near Stilton, Cambs very close to the Norfolk & Lincolnshire County Borders.
Easy access from Peterborough, Cambridge, Oundle, Thrapston, Kettering, Huntingdon
Similar courses run throughout the East Midlands, and each culminates in an independent assessment of your gundog’s ability.
Grade one course introduces gundog training to novice handlers covering heelwork, sit, stay and recall commands. Workinggundogs.co.uk aim to introduce more owners to this rewarding sport, helping people channel their pet’s natural desires and talents into a useful and exciting activity. Courses provide a structured based training program for handlers to follow.
Taught by Professional Gundog Trainers, each course accepts five students for eight weekly, one hour sessions. Over eight weeks, students will train their dogs in basic obedience and simple retrieving
Book Now
Grade 1 Group Gundog Training Great Glen, Leicestershire
Workinggundogs.co.uk will run new graded gundog training courses near Great Glen, Leicestershire.
Easy access from Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Coventry via the M1 & M69
Similar courses run throughout the East Midlands, and each culminates in an independent assessment of your gundog’s ability.
Grade one course introduces gundog training to novice handlers covering heelwork, sit, stay and recall commands. Workinggundogs.co.uk aim to introduce more owners to this rewarding sport, helping people channel their pet’s natural desires and talents into a useful and exciting activity. Courses provide a structured based training program for handlers to follow.
Taught by Professional Gundog Trainers, each course accepts five students for eight weekly, one hour sessions. Over eight weeks, students will train their dogs in basic obedience and simple retriev
Book Now
Grade 1 Group Gundog Training Oakham, Rutland
Workinggundogs.co.uk will run new graded gundog training courses near Oakham, Rutland very close to the Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridge County Borders.
Easy access from Stamford, Grantham, Melton Mowbray, Sleaford & Peterborough
Similar courses run throughout the East Midlands, and each culminates in an independent assessment of your gundog’s ability.
Grade one course introduces gundog training to novice handlers covering heelwork, sit, stay and recall commands. Workinggundogs.co.uk aim to introduce more owners to this rewarding sport, helping people channel their pet’s natural desires and talents into a useful and exciting activity. Courses provide a structured based training program for handlers to follow.
Taught by Professional Gundog Trainers, each course accepts five students for eight weekly, one hour sessions. Over eight weeks, students will train their dogs in basic obedience and simple retrieving
Book Now
Grade 1 Group Gundog Training Brixworth Northamptonshire
Workinggundogs.co.uk will run new graded gundog training courses near Brixworth very close to the Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire & Buckinghamshire County Borders.
Easy access from Market Harborough, Kettering, Wellingborough, Daventry & Northampton
Similar courses run throughout the East Midlands, and each culminates in an independent assessment of your gundog’s ability.
Grade one course introduces gundog training to novice handlers covering heelwork, sit, stay and recall commands. Workinggundogs.co.uk aim to introduce more owners to this rewarding sport, helping people channel their pet’s natural desires and talents into a useful and exciting activity. Courses provide a structured based training program for handlers to follow.
Taught by Professional Gundog Trainers, each course accepts five students for eight weekly, one hour sessions. Over eight weeks, students will train their dogs in basic obedience and simple retrieving
Book Now
Grade 1 Group Gun Dog Training Hartwell Northamptonshire
Workinggundogs.co.uk will run new graded gundog training courses near Hartwell very close to the Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire & Buckinghamshire County Borders.
Easy access from Milton Keynes, Daventry, Towcester & Northampton
Similar courses run throughout the East Midlands, and each culminates in an independent assessment of your gundog’s ability.
Grade one course introduces gundog training to novice handlers covering heelwork, sit, stay and recall commands. Workinggundogs.co.uk aim to introduce more owners to this rewarding sport, helping people channel their pet’s natural desires and talents into a useful and exciting activity. Courses provide a structured based training program for handlers to follow.
Taught by Professional Gundog Trainers, each course accepts five students for eight weekly, one hour sessions. Over eight weeks, students will train their dogs in basic obedience and simple retrieving
Book Now
Sunday, 7 August 2011
Cold Game Gun Dog Training Starting Soon
Walked Up Group Cold Game Gundog Training is available with Working Gundogs during August and September and provides excellent preparation work prior to this years shooting season. These days are limited to 10 gundogs with a mixture of Spaniels and Retrievers and provides the closest type of training to real thing, without using live birds.Friday's 6.30pm - 9pm
August 12th, 19th, 26th 6.30pm - 9pm
Saturday's 9am - 12midday
August 13th, 20th,27th,
Friday 6.30pm - 9pm
September 9th, 23rd, 30th
Saturday 9am - 12 midday
September 10th,
As your gundog advances during its training, it is most important it remains steady to fallen game and other dogs working, this type of training is excellent for making your gundogs more tolerant in this situation.
A variety of cold game will be used. Your dogs heelwork, steadiness, recall, marking and handling skills will be tested.
We hope to give every gun dog the chance to pick, either rabbit, partridge, pheasant, pigeon, woodcock, young dogs will be placed in the centre of the line away from gun shot, each handler will be given sufficient time to retrieve, although dogs out of control will be called up, (please do not take offence, some dogs will need to be kept on the lead), everybody is there to learn and teach their gun dog something, it’s not a competition.
Book Here
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Pedigree Dogs Exposed Part 2 !
In June this year, Jemima Harrison informed the Kennel Club and others know that the BBC has commissioned her to make a follow-up film to Pedigree Dogs Exposed, to explore what impact the film had and to assess what progress has been made in addressing conformation and genetic issues in purebred dogs since 2008.
PDE 2 will be what the BBC call a "personal view" film - acknowledging, as of course I have to, how involved I have become in this issue since making Pedigree Dogs Exposed.
There has been no response from the Kennel Club yet. Jennifer is keen for the KC to have a voice in the film so hope they will decide to take part and to let me film at one or two dog shows between now and the end of the year so we can see what progress has been made since PDE, particularly as regards the "high-profile" breeds.
Read her blog
It was also interesting to read that a group called "STOP THE BBC PRODUCING ANOTHER PDE" had been formed attracting some 2500 members on facebook, which has since been removed by facebook.
Details of its creation can be found here
FACE BOOK has since removed this group, which I have some sympathy with , if we continue prevent people or journalists from speaking out, large insitutions, such as the kennel club will never be held to account for their actions. The Kennel Club is self regulated, unlike the our press and banks, which have proven even when regulated to use their power for there own interest!
I want to see an investigation expose the reality and give an opportunity of supporters and complainants to voice their opinons and evidence such that a balance view is obtained.
PDE 2 will be what the BBC call a "personal view" film - acknowledging, as of course I have to, how involved I have become in this issue since making Pedigree Dogs Exposed.
There has been no response from the Kennel Club yet. Jennifer is keen for the KC to have a voice in the film so hope they will decide to take part and to let me film at one or two dog shows between now and the end of the year so we can see what progress has been made since PDE, particularly as regards the "high-profile" breeds.
Read her blog
It was also interesting to read that a group called "STOP THE BBC PRODUCING ANOTHER PDE" had been formed attracting some 2500 members on facebook, which has since been removed by facebook.
Details of its creation can be found here
FACE BOOK has since removed this group, which I have some sympathy with , if we continue prevent people or journalists from speaking out, large insitutions, such as the kennel club will never be held to account for their actions. The Kennel Club is self regulated, unlike the our press and banks, which have proven even when regulated to use their power for there own interest!
I want to see an investigation expose the reality and give an opportunity of supporters and complainants to voice their opinons and evidence such that a balance view is obtained.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
Health Care Tips for Older Gundogs
When Your Gundog is getting older and whines terribly each time you leave home without him. But do you really need to retire a gundog at age nine, 10 or 11?
Assuming he’s physically sound, there’s no reason a gundog can’t hunt through most of his golden years. But for his safety and your peace of mind, you have to make sure he’s as healthy as he can be.
Here are some health care tips for older gundogs.
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
Google Plus 1 Project? will this correct artificial rankings?
What Is The Need for Google Plus Project?
If we go back to the start of Google, part of their objective was to be the world’s information source. To that end, any information including communications, are fair game to be pooled under one roof for better accessing, interpretation and availability based on content relevancy. Information from social communities certainly falls into the process of aggregating information and in line with Google’s objectives.
Secondly, a few years ago if you logged into your Google account, you had the option of commenting on web pages in search results. I think it took one comment to realize that nothing we did would have an effect on website rankings, because the comments were only relative for our own account. Now why would I comment on web pages if my comments are not shared with anyone? Exactly! So, the comment we had on our own website is no longer there and the Google Plus Project seems to have replaced this feature more effectively. Now, all comments, ticks, etc. are shared with people in our community. Certainly seems to be more effective for web marketing.
Perhaps not the last reason, but certainly another important reason, would be related to anti-spam. Google has always sought out ways to reduce spam in the search results. So much so, that it has made it more difficult and complicated for businesses to rank legitimate information and websites (this is also known as job security for web marketers!).
Spammers have infiltrated social communities and found ways to get their information indexed through these communities and/or impacted search engine results for their websites. Since most popular social communities are not as good as Google in terms of anti-spam, one would expect Google to take a pro-active role. Content in the project can be better monitored (aka controlled) to minimize spam, fraud and less reputable websites.
If we go back to the start of Google, part of their objective was to be the world’s information source. To that end, any information including communications, are fair game to be pooled under one roof for better accessing, interpretation and availability based on content relevancy. Information from social communities certainly falls into the process of aggregating information and in line with Google’s objectives.
Secondly, a few years ago if you logged into your Google account, you had the option of commenting on web pages in search results. I think it took one comment to realize that nothing we did would have an effect on website rankings, because the comments were only relative for our own account. Now why would I comment on web pages if my comments are not shared with anyone? Exactly! So, the comment we had on our own website is no longer there and the Google Plus Project seems to have replaced this feature more effectively. Now, all comments, ticks, etc. are shared with people in our community. Certainly seems to be more effective for web marketing.
Perhaps not the last reason, but certainly another important reason, would be related to anti-spam. Google has always sought out ways to reduce spam in the search results. So much so, that it has made it more difficult and complicated for businesses to rank legitimate information and websites (this is also known as job security for web marketers!).
Spammers have infiltrated social communities and found ways to get their information indexed through these communities and/or impacted search engine results for their websites. Since most popular social communities are not as good as Google in terms of anti-spam, one would expect Google to take a pro-active role. Content in the project can be better monitored (aka controlled) to minimize spam, fraud and less reputable websites.
Thursday, 7 July 2011
Gundog Training Testimonial Show Spaniel
Andria Warren Show Spaniel ~ Mable ~ NorthamptonshireI am not the traditional attendant for gundog training as I have a cocker spaniel, from mostly show lines. I knew training Mable would be a challenging experience for both me and Mable and my trainer Stewart but I feel the training has been really beneficial and enjoyable.
read more
Monday, 4 July 2011
Working Gundog Graded Field Assessments 3rd July 2011
Working Gundog Graded Training Field Assessments
3rd July 2011 ~ Leicestershire
Congratulations to those students who passed their graded assessments, disspointments for two grade 4 and one grade 3 student as their dogs did not perform on the day.
Out of 14 students who started group training courses back in May 2011, 13 finished the course and 11 completed the graded field assessments, unfortunatley 2 students could not make the assessments, Ben & Millie got lost on route ! and Catriona Spaniel Monty was not fit due to a recent operation. 1 Student left a grade 1 course who deemed it unsuitable.
Stats
93% of students complete courses.
84% of students completing course go on to complete the assessments.
78% of students pass their graded assessments
GRADE 4 MERIT for WORKING COCKER BRAMBLE !
After 7 weeks training nearly all of students entered their gundogs for an independent graded field assessment covering basic and novice gundog foundation training for Spaniels and Retrievers.
On this occasion we had four grade 4 spaniels taking an assessments, which involves blind retrieves, jumping fences, hunting in medium cover, long and short marks with shot, all dogs needed to demonstrate steadiness, hunting pattern, good marking and handling skills.
Training Groups from the East Midlands met at our training ground at Houghton on the Hill, Leicestershire, weather was very hot and humid.
Assessments are carried out independently by another professional gundog trainer who has not seen or trained any of the applicants, other than in previous grades, we like to think this gives more reward and credibility to the achievement.
Assessments on this occasion were conducted by Mr. David Field, who is a kennel club B Panel Judge, he has many years experience in training a number of gundogs breeds and like our own trainer wants to see more people enjoy working their gundogs for the purpose, which they were bred for.
Grade 1 Results
James Rose & English Springer Spaniel PASS
Claire Greenwood & Chocolate Labrador Reriever PASS
Susan March & Golden Retriever MERIT
Sharon Lee & Brittany Spaniel MERIT
Grade 2 Results
Carole Williams & Chocolate Labrador Retriever PASS
Ian Butcher & Flat Coated Retriever MERIT
Grade 3 Results
Claire Thomas & English Springer Spaniel NOT READY
Ann Lester & English Springer Spaniel PASS
Dawn Williamson & Cocker MERIT
Grade 4 Results
Adrian Phillips & Raffy NOT READY
Peter Wright & Purdey NOT READY
John Billings & Raffles PASS
Paul Toseland & Bramble MERIT
Further reports & photo's can be found on our facebook page and website
3rd July 2011 ~ Leicestershire
Congratulations to those students who passed their graded assessments, disspointments for two grade 4 and one grade 3 student as their dogs did not perform on the day.
Out of 14 students who started group training courses back in May 2011, 13 finished the course and 11 completed the graded field assessments, unfortunatley 2 students could not make the assessments, Ben & Millie got lost on route ! and Catriona Spaniel Monty was not fit due to a recent operation. 1 Student left a grade 1 course who deemed it unsuitable.
Stats
93% of students complete courses.
84% of students completing course go on to complete the assessments.
78% of students pass their graded assessments
GRADE 4 MERIT for WORKING COCKER BRAMBLE !
After 7 weeks training nearly all of students entered their gundogs for an independent graded field assessment covering basic and novice gundog foundation training for Spaniels and Retrievers.
On this occasion we had four grade 4 spaniels taking an assessments, which involves blind retrieves, jumping fences, hunting in medium cover, long and short marks with shot, all dogs needed to demonstrate steadiness, hunting pattern, good marking and handling skills.
Training Groups from the East Midlands met at our training ground at Houghton on the Hill, Leicestershire, weather was very hot and humid.
Assessments are carried out independently by another professional gundog trainer who has not seen or trained any of the applicants, other than in previous grades, we like to think this gives more reward and credibility to the achievement.
Assessments on this occasion were conducted by Mr. David Field, who is a kennel club B Panel Judge, he has many years experience in training a number of gundogs breeds and like our own trainer wants to see more people enjoy working their gundogs for the purpose, which they were bred for.
Grade 1 Results
James Rose & English Springer Spaniel PASS
Claire Greenwood & Chocolate Labrador Reriever PASS
Susan March & Golden Retriever MERIT
Sharon Lee & Brittany Spaniel MERIT
Grade 2 Results
Carole Williams & Chocolate Labrador Retriever PASS
Ian Butcher & Flat Coated Retriever MERIT
Grade 3 Results
Claire Thomas & English Springer Spaniel NOT READY
Ann Lester & English Springer Spaniel PASS
Dawn Williamson & Cocker MERIT
Grade 4 Results
Adrian Phillips & Raffy NOT READY
Peter Wright & Purdey NOT READY
John Billings & Raffles PASS
Paul Toseland & Bramble MERIT
Further reports & photo's can be found on our facebook page and website
Sunday, 3 July 2011
Working Gundog Graded Field Assessments 23rd April 2011
Working Gundog Graded Training Field Assessments
23rd April 2011 ~ Northamptonshire
Congratulations to those students who passed their graded assessments, if we exclude those who attended just to take the test, 80% of of our group training clients who take the test are passing their grades.
MERITS FOR FLAT COATED & LABRADOR RETRIEVERS !
After 7 weeks training a number of students entered their gundogs for an independent graded field assessments covering basic gundog foundation training for Spaniels, Retrievers and HPR's.
On this occasion we had a very wide cross section of breeds, Show Cocker, Labrador Cross, Chocolate Labradors, Munsterlander, Sprocker,Flat Coated Retriever and Labrador Retrievers.
Out of the 9 Assessments, 7 of the gundogs had undergone 6/7 weeks training prior to the assessments, which started back in February 2011. 8 Students started group training in February, 5 dogs went on to take assessments, 2 dogs were not ready at the end of course and 1 was on holiday. All students starting the course completed the course.
Training Groups from the East Midlands met at our training ground at Creaton near Brixworth, Northamptonshire, weather was very good.
Assessments are carried out independently by another professional gundog trainer who has not seen or trained any of the applicants, other than in previous grades, we like to think this gives more reward and credibility to the achievement.
Assessments on this occasion were conducted by Mr. David Field, who is a kennel club B Panel Judge, he has many years experience in training a number of gundogs breeds and like our own trainer wants to see more people enjoy working their gundogs for the purpose, which they were bred for.
Grade 1 Results
Roger Billson & Munsterlander NOT READY
Ben Cleave & Labrador Reriever PASS
James De-Wit & Hungarian Vizsla PASS
Carole Williams & Chocolate Labrador PASS
Ian Butcher & Flat Coated Retriever MERIT
Grade 2 Results
Chris French & Sprocker NOT READY
Ruth Sheehan & Labraor Cross PASS
Andrea Warren & Show Cocker PASS
Paula Harriss & Labrador Retriever Scouse MERIT
Further reports & photo's can be found on our facebook page and website
23rd April 2011 ~ Northamptonshire
Congratulations to those students who passed their graded assessments, if we exclude those who attended just to take the test, 80% of of our group training clients who take the test are passing their grades.
MERITS FOR FLAT COATED & LABRADOR RETRIEVERS !
After 7 weeks training a number of students entered their gundogs for an independent graded field assessments covering basic gundog foundation training for Spaniels, Retrievers and HPR's.
On this occasion we had a very wide cross section of breeds, Show Cocker, Labrador Cross, Chocolate Labradors, Munsterlander, Sprocker,Flat Coated Retriever and Labrador Retrievers.
Out of the 9 Assessments, 7 of the gundogs had undergone 6/7 weeks training prior to the assessments, which started back in February 2011. 8 Students started group training in February, 5 dogs went on to take assessments, 2 dogs were not ready at the end of course and 1 was on holiday. All students starting the course completed the course.
Training Groups from the East Midlands met at our training ground at Creaton near Brixworth, Northamptonshire, weather was very good.
Assessments are carried out independently by another professional gundog trainer who has not seen or trained any of the applicants, other than in previous grades, we like to think this gives more reward and credibility to the achievement.
Assessments on this occasion were conducted by Mr. David Field, who is a kennel club B Panel Judge, he has many years experience in training a number of gundogs breeds and like our own trainer wants to see more people enjoy working their gundogs for the purpose, which they were bred for.
Grade 1 Results
Roger Billson & Munsterlander NOT READY
Ben Cleave & Labrador Reriever PASS
James De-Wit & Hungarian Vizsla PASS
Carole Williams & Chocolate Labrador PASS
Ian Butcher & Flat Coated Retriever MERIT
Grade 2 Results
Chris French & Sprocker NOT READY
Ruth Sheehan & Labraor Cross PASS
Andrea Warren & Show Cocker PASS
Paula Harriss & Labrador Retriever Scouse MERIT
Further reports & photo's can be found on our facebook page and website
Thursday, 30 June 2011
New Rules when taking your Gundog out of the Country
NEW PET TRAVEL RULES TO COME INTO FORCE IN 2012
Defra has announced that new rules on pet travel will be introduced from 1st January 2012. The changes will mean that the rules on rabies vaccination for entry into the UK will be in line with the rest of Europe.
Defra has carried out a scientific risk assessment to find out how the changes will affect the level of risk of rabies entering the UK. Although the probability of rabies introduction into the UK will increase, the assessment found the risk to still be very low after the increase.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) are informing their members of the new rules so that the right advice can be given to pet owners planning to travel abroad with their animals.
Dogs, cats and pet ferrets entering the UK from an EU or ‘listed’ third country from 1 January 2012 must:
be microchipped
be vaccinated against rabies
have waited 21 days after vaccination before entering
have an EU Pet Passport
The current requirement to carry out a blood test followed by a six-month wait before entry into the UK will no longer be required.
From 1st January pets entering from a non-listed third country must pass a blood test 30 days after vaccination followed by a three-month wait.
Until now, the UK, Ireland and three other Member States have had derogations from EU pet travel rules to allow for additional controls to protect against rabies, ticks and tapeworms.
Successful vaccination programmes in wildlife in mainland Europe have now allowed the UK to consider whether the additional controls for rabies are still necessary.
The BVA and BSAVA have continued to lobby in Europe for additional controls to be maintained for tapeworms, which could introduce Echinococcus multilocularis to the UK – a significant public health concern.
Although a final decision has not yet been made the European Commission has indicated that it will support the UK case for additional tapeworm controls.
Commenting, Harvey Locke, President of the BVA, said:
“It is vital that any controls on animal movements are proportionate to the risk.
“Due to the highly successful vaccination programme in wildlife in mainland Europe there has been a huge reduction in the incidence in rabies. Research carried out by Defra reveals that the risk of introducing rabies under the new rules is very low.
“However, it is essential that pet owners get good veterinary advice when planning to take their animals abroad because pets can be exposed to a number of diseases not currently endemic in the UK, for example leishmaniasis, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis.
“As part of responsible ownership we would always advise pet owners to visit their vet for a pre-travel consultation to discuss how to protect the health and welfare of their animals when travelling abroad.”
Andrew Ash, President of the BSAVA, added:
“The Pet Travel Scheme has been highly successful in keeping the UK free of rabies. BVA and BSAVA have been working closely with Defra to ensure that any changes to the pet travel rules do not threaten our disease-free status.
“The rabies vaccine has advanced and now has a longer duration of immunity and we welcome the continuing requirement for all pets to be vaccinated before travel.”
Defra Website
Defra has announced that new rules on pet travel will be introduced from 1st January 2012. The changes will mean that the rules on rabies vaccination for entry into the UK will be in line with the rest of Europe.
Defra has carried out a scientific risk assessment to find out how the changes will affect the level of risk of rabies entering the UK. Although the probability of rabies introduction into the UK will increase, the assessment found the risk to still be very low after the increase.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) are informing their members of the new rules so that the right advice can be given to pet owners planning to travel abroad with their animals.
Dogs, cats and pet ferrets entering the UK from an EU or ‘listed’ third country from 1 January 2012 must:
be microchipped
be vaccinated against rabies
have waited 21 days after vaccination before entering
have an EU Pet Passport
The current requirement to carry out a blood test followed by a six-month wait before entry into the UK will no longer be required.
From 1st January pets entering from a non-listed third country must pass a blood test 30 days after vaccination followed by a three-month wait.
Until now, the UK, Ireland and three other Member States have had derogations from EU pet travel rules to allow for additional controls to protect against rabies, ticks and tapeworms.
Successful vaccination programmes in wildlife in mainland Europe have now allowed the UK to consider whether the additional controls for rabies are still necessary.
The BVA and BSAVA have continued to lobby in Europe for additional controls to be maintained for tapeworms, which could introduce Echinococcus multilocularis to the UK – a significant public health concern.
Although a final decision has not yet been made the European Commission has indicated that it will support the UK case for additional tapeworm controls.
Commenting, Harvey Locke, President of the BVA, said:
“It is vital that any controls on animal movements are proportionate to the risk.
“Due to the highly successful vaccination programme in wildlife in mainland Europe there has been a huge reduction in the incidence in rabies. Research carried out by Defra reveals that the risk of introducing rabies under the new rules is very low.
“However, it is essential that pet owners get good veterinary advice when planning to take their animals abroad because pets can be exposed to a number of diseases not currently endemic in the UK, for example leishmaniasis, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis.
“As part of responsible ownership we would always advise pet owners to visit their vet for a pre-travel consultation to discuss how to protect the health and welfare of their animals when travelling abroad.”
Andrew Ash, President of the BSAVA, added:
“The Pet Travel Scheme has been highly successful in keeping the UK free of rabies. BVA and BSAVA have been working closely with Defra to ensure that any changes to the pet travel rules do not threaten our disease-free status.
“The rabies vaccine has advanced and now has a longer duration of immunity and we welcome the continuing requirement for all pets to be vaccinated before travel.”
Defra Website
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Top Gundogs in the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Regional Final
See website for more details
"Its always a pleasure to win any award, but to win 2 top awards in the same day is very special with very young Labrador Retrievers, Poppy had an exceptional day scoring 80/80, which I am told is a first since 1993. Many thanks to the host, judges and sponsors on the hottest summers day of 2011, it was exhausting for the competitors and their dogs, but the atmosphere was very enjoyable and included a number of fun events for those new to gundogs".
Thursday, 23 June 2011
Wing Hall Gundog Demonstration
Working Gundogs were invited to host a gundog display at Wing Hall, Rutland on the sunday 12th June, the local Rutland Dog Warden Barry Briggs judged the dog show whilst our resident gundog trainer stewart north judged the obedience section.
The Dog Show results will be publish in the local Rutland News Shortly.
The weather was dissapointing for the organisers, although those visitors that did brave the weather has a throughly enjoyable time.
Tuesday, 21 June 2011
Book Review "Dog Sense" by John Bradshaw
One of the most fascinating things about the human/dog relationship is our constantly-evolving notions of how dogs think, understand, learn and interact with us. Every day, it seems, some new bit of research is shedding heretofore unknown insight into dog behavior, and in the process sometimes standing conventional wisdom on its head. Such is the case with "Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet" (Basic Books, 2011) by anthrozoologist John Bradshaw.
Bradshaw, using the latest findings in canine research, argues that much of what we take for granted about dogs is completely wrong. He claims that, among other things, the "alpha dog" theory is inaccurate, that new research show us that dogs are both dumber and smarter than we think, that dogs have evolved to become physically and emotionally dependent on humans, that dogs trained with positive reinforcement have better retention and don’t suffer from fear-based aggression like those trained with other methods, and that environment is more important than breed when it comes to raising people-loving dogs.
However small and cloistered it may seem, the world of gundog training doesn't exist in a vacuum. Just like any other field, it grows and evolves over time as we learn better and more effective ways of doing things. In my book the most important trait for a dog trainer (and most common among truly gifted dog men) is an open and flexible mind. Smart trainers aren't afraid to go outside the gundog world if it can teach them something about their dogs.
So as I begin reading this new book on dog behavior, I'm wondering what books you may have read - I'm talking non gundog-specific books - that have taught or helped you in your training and understanding of your gundog? Cesar Millan? Perhaps one of Bill Tarrant's general dog books? Give me your favorites...
Tuesday, 7 June 2011
US $20 Bill This is Creepy !
Apologies for not being Gundog Related, but i needed to share this !
This is creepy!!
Have a history teacher explain this----- if they can.
Abraham Lincoln was elected to Congress in 1846.
John F. Kennedy was elected to Congress in 1946.
Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860.
John F. Kennedy was elected President in 1960.
Both were particularly concerned with civil rights.
Both wives lost their children while living in the White House.
Both Presidents were shot on a Friday.
Both Presidents were shot in the head
Now it gets really weird.
Lincoln 's secretary was named Kennedy.
Kennedy's Secretary was named Lincoln .
Both were assassinated by Southerners.
Both were succeeded by Southerners
named Johnson.
Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was born in 1808.
Lyndon Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, was born in 1908.
John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Lincoln,
was born in 1839.
Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated Kennedy,
was born in 1939.
Both assassins were known by their three names.
Both names are composed of fifteen letters.
Now hang on to your seat.
Lincoln was shot at the theatre named 'Ford'.
Kennedy was shot in a car called ' Lincoln ' made by 'Ford'.
Lincoln was shot in a theatre and his assassin
ran and hid in a warehouse.
Kennedy was shot from a warehouse and his assassin ran and hid in a theatre.
Booth and Oswald were assassinated before their trials.
WHO FIGURED THIS OUT?
INCREDIBLE
1) Fold a NEW $20 bill in half...
2) Fold again, taking care to fold it exactly as below
3) Fold the other end, exactly as before
4) Now, simply turn it over...
What a coincidence! A simple geometric fold creates a catastrophic premonition printed on all $20 bills!!!
COINCIDENCE?
YOU DECIDE
As if that wasn't enough...
Here is what you've seen...
Firstly The Pentagon on fire...
Then The Twin Towers.
... And now . look at this!
TRIPLE COINCIDENCE ON A SIMPLE $20 BILL
Disaster (Pentagon)
Disaster ( Twin Towers )
Disaster (Osama)???
It gets even better 9 + 11 = $20!
Creepy huh? Send this to as many people as you can, cause:
Hey, this is one history lesson most people probably will not mind reading!
This is creepy!!
Have a history teacher explain this----- if they can.
Abraham Lincoln was elected to Congress in 1846.
John F. Kennedy was elected to Congress in 1946.
Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860.
John F. Kennedy was elected President in 1960.
Both were particularly concerned with civil rights.
Both wives lost their children while living in the White House.
Both Presidents were shot on a Friday.
Both Presidents were shot in the head
Now it gets really weird.
Lincoln 's secretary was named Kennedy.
Kennedy's Secretary was named Lincoln .
Both were assassinated by Southerners.
Both were succeeded by Southerners
named Johnson.
Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was born in 1808.
Lyndon Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, was born in 1908.
John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Lincoln,
was born in 1839.
Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated Kennedy,
was born in 1939.
Both assassins were known by their three names.
Both names are composed of fifteen letters.
Now hang on to your seat.
Lincoln was shot at the theatre named 'Ford'.
Kennedy was shot in a car called ' Lincoln ' made by 'Ford'.
Lincoln was shot in a theatre and his assassin
ran and hid in a warehouse.
Kennedy was shot from a warehouse and his assassin ran and hid in a theatre.
Booth and Oswald were assassinated before their trials.
WHO FIGURED THIS OUT?
INCREDIBLE
1) Fold a NEW $20 bill in half...
2) Fold again, taking care to fold it exactly as below
3) Fold the other end, exactly as before
4) Now, simply turn it over...
What a coincidence! A simple geometric fold creates a catastrophic premonition printed on all $20 bills!!!
COINCIDENCE?
YOU DECIDE
As if that wasn't enough...
Here is what you've seen...
Firstly The Pentagon on fire...
Then The Twin Towers.
... And now . look at this!
TRIPLE COINCIDENCE ON A SIMPLE $20 BILL
Disaster (Pentagon)
Disaster ( Twin Towers )
Disaster (Osama)???
It gets even better 9 + 11 = $20!
Creepy huh? Send this to as many people as you can, cause:
Hey, this is one history lesson most people probably will not mind reading!
Monday, 6 June 2011
Friday, 3 June 2011
Daventry Countryside Park Gundog Water Training Day
Dear Stewart,I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for attending Countryside Day, all feedback we have received has been very positive and I very much enjoyed watching your training sessions. I am sorry however that I did not have the opportunity to meet with you but hope your experience of the day was a pleasant one.
I do hope that you trainee's had an enjoyable day and enjoyed the surroundings of the park.
Exhibitors feedback is very important to ensure that future events are successful and therefore I attach a feedback form for completion.
Again, thank you for attending and I hope you would be interested in attending events at the Country Park in the future.
Kind Regards
Gemma
Gemma cooper
Community Project Officer
Daventry District Council
Photo's and details of event
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
Friday, 6 May 2011
Gundog Training or Practising ?
Having just returned from a skiing holiday in France, I was enjoying each day on the mountain with the fresh, cold air and adrenaline infusions, as my friends and I pushed each other to do better.
I used the mantra (sometimes it doubled as an excuse): "if you're not falling, you're not skiing hard enough."
The same might be said of training your gundog: if you're not making adjustments, corrections or changes to your gundog's performance, you might not be training hard enough. You might just be practicing!
Now, I say might because with gundogs it's very subjective and depends upon what you've already done with the gundog.
If you haven't taught the gundog what you expect and then suddenly throw them into a scenario that they have to figure out by trial and error, then corrections, be them verbal, physical, are woefully unfair.
However, if you've gone through the teaching phase, the gundog understands what you're doing and what's expected, then pushing him to do better by challenging him mentally and giving him every opportunity to make the correct decisions is training the gundog.
If you're simply running drills over and over or keep repeating the same scenarios in the same area, then the gundog begins to read the exercise and can react accordingly.
So many people don't train, they just practice. They just go through the motions and the gundog isn't really working or having to try.
Now, practicing can have its benefits. It's great for building a dog's confidence and momentum, as well as re-establishing the basics, but repeating the same scenario or drill over and over in the same place doesn't train the gundog to react accordingly in the future in a new setting.
When people train in the same place, the dog begins to pick up on cues and anticipates what's going to happen. You need to get the gundog out of its comfort zone a little bit and challenge it, or else you're just practicing and not training.
You can push a gundog by changing locations or making a known drill/scenario more challenging by increasing the complexity, distractions, number of dummies, topography or getting out in the rain and windy conditions (after all, shooting rarely takes place during ideal conditions).
I suspect we are all guilty of lazy training (especially after the shooting season).
If you feel you need to be pushed then get booked in with workinggundogs
I used the mantra (sometimes it doubled as an excuse): "if you're not falling, you're not skiing hard enough."The same might be said of training your gundog: if you're not making adjustments, corrections or changes to your gundog's performance, you might not be training hard enough. You might just be practicing!
Now, I say might because with gundogs it's very subjective and depends upon what you've already done with the gundog.
If you haven't taught the gundog what you expect and then suddenly throw them into a scenario that they have to figure out by trial and error, then corrections, be them verbal, physical, are woefully unfair.
However, if you've gone through the teaching phase, the gundog understands what you're doing and what's expected, then pushing him to do better by challenging him mentally and giving him every opportunity to make the correct decisions is training the gundog.
If you're simply running drills over and over or keep repeating the same scenarios in the same area, then the gundog begins to read the exercise and can react accordingly.
So many people don't train, they just practice. They just go through the motions and the gundog isn't really working or having to try.
Now, practicing can have its benefits. It's great for building a dog's confidence and momentum, as well as re-establishing the basics, but repeating the same scenario or drill over and over in the same place doesn't train the gundog to react accordingly in the future in a new setting.
When people train in the same place, the dog begins to pick up on cues and anticipates what's going to happen. You need to get the gundog out of its comfort zone a little bit and challenge it, or else you're just practicing and not training.
You can push a gundog by changing locations or making a known drill/scenario more challenging by increasing the complexity, distractions, number of dummies, topography or getting out in the rain and windy conditions (after all, shooting rarely takes place during ideal conditions).
I suspect we are all guilty of lazy training (especially after the shooting season).
If you feel you need to be pushed then get booked in with workinggundogs
Thursday, 5 May 2011
Retriever Championship Jimmy Swindlehurst
Winning the Retriever Championship is the top accolade for any gundog handler or retriever breeder and is a major focal point for all retriever field trialing enthusiasts during the shooting season.
Although the field trialing community is a very small part of United Kingdom gundog activity, the Retriever Championship has a major influence on the bloodlines used, some would say too much! but we will leave that discussion for another day.
Like most sports in today's world, winners need a dedication and focus, which consumes the majority of activity in ones life and the gundog world is no different. "A top class retriever requires a top class driver, if you are to succeed in field trials"
Read more for stud details
Although the field trialing community is a very small part of United Kingdom gundog activity, the Retriever Championship has a major influence on the bloodlines used, some would say too much! but we will leave that discussion for another day.
Like most sports in today's world, winners need a dedication and focus, which consumes the majority of activity in ones life and the gundog world is no different. "A top class retriever requires a top class driver, if you are to succeed in field trials"
Read more for stud details
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
The Sporting Dog Group
The Sporting Dog Group
The first 2 categories of dog divisions were the Sporting and Non-Sporting groups. Today, there are many more, yet the Sporting Group still remains. The Sporting Group contains the dogs who accompany their hunter-owners into the field. They are made to find birds and other game. They then point to the position of the bird or small animal, freezing in place. Alternative, a sporting dog will flush the creature out from the brush. The owner fires a shot, shoots an arrow or uses some means to wound or kill the prey. The Sporting dog then retrieves the creature from wherever it has fallen - water, land or swamp.
Characteristics
Overall, the size, shape and color vary in this group. They are not identical clones. Physically there is a variation of coat types, colors and physical attributes. Mentally and in terms of demands, however, the Sporting group has certain important commonalities.
- They are very active dogs. While you may never wish to hunt with them, you will need to make sure they are exercised thoroughly. Sporting canines require plenty of vigorous exercise to keep them relaxed, happy, content and tired out.
- Their energy level, if not the size of the larger animals, prohibits their living with you in a small apartment.
- They are great companions.
- Sporting dogs can be sociable and good-natured companions if you take the time to train them.
- Many of the breeds are high-maintenance. This does not apply only to exercise but to grooming requirements.
Breed-Associated Health Problems And Other Issues
There are a number of health problems associated with the Sporting Group of dogs. It does not mean your good sport will be affected. It does, however, mean you should check into the background of a sporting dog. Be sure to talk to breeders and vets about any possible health issues that may affect your dog of dog-to-be.
- Dysplasia - This is common among several breeds in the Sporting Group. Dysplasia affects both the hip and the elbows of this category of canine.
- Hypothyroidism - This means the dog’s thyroid does not produce enough hormones. It is easily corrected through the right medication. Prone to this particular problem are Golden Retrievers.
- Eye Problems - Many sporting dogs have eye problems later in life. Cocker Spaniels are affected by this.
- High energy - This is great if you are afflicted with the same nature. It may not be so great if you are a couch potato or only suffer fits of exercise mania. The excess of energy may also make it hard on the toddler and small child set.
Grooming Needs
The members of the Sporting Group require grooming. Some dogs need it more than others. Some, such as Labrador Retrievers, require only a weekly brushing. The Golden sheds more. If you want to keep this under control, you will have to brush it more than once a week.
High maintenance in grooming belongs to the Spaniels, and a few Setters of this group. Their coats demand frequent brushing and trimming. If you fail to meet the requirements, your dog will not look at its best. It may also be uncomfortable.
Specific Breeds of Sporting Dogs
You can find dogs weighing from 20 to 60 pounds in the Sporting Group.
Among the members of this breed, you will find the following breed of dogs:
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Curly-coated Retriever
- Golden Labrador Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Gordon Setter
- Irish Setter
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Brittany Spaniel
- VizlaInformation provided by Joe Hendrix of Oh My Dog Supplies, where you can find a extraordinary collection of raised dog bowls online.
The first 2 categories of dog divisions were the Sporting and Non-Sporting groups. Today, there are many more, yet the Sporting Group still remains. The Sporting Group contains the dogs who accompany their hunter-owners into the field. They are made to find birds and other game. They then point to the position of the bird or small animal, freezing in place. Alternative, a sporting dog will flush the creature out from the brush. The owner fires a shot, shoots an arrow or uses some means to wound or kill the prey. The Sporting dog then retrieves the creature from wherever it has fallen - water, land or swamp.
Characteristics
Overall, the size, shape and color vary in this group. They are not identical clones. Physically there is a variation of coat types, colors and physical attributes. Mentally and in terms of demands, however, the Sporting group has certain important commonalities.
- They are very active dogs. While you may never wish to hunt with them, you will need to make sure they are exercised thoroughly. Sporting canines require plenty of vigorous exercise to keep them relaxed, happy, content and tired out.
- Their energy level, if not the size of the larger animals, prohibits their living with you in a small apartment.
- They are great companions.
- Sporting dogs can be sociable and good-natured companions if you take the time to train them.
- Many of the breeds are high-maintenance. This does not apply only to exercise but to grooming requirements.
Breed-Associated Health Problems And Other Issues
There are a number of health problems associated with the Sporting Group of dogs. It does not mean your good sport will be affected. It does, however, mean you should check into the background of a sporting dog. Be sure to talk to breeders and vets about any possible health issues that may affect your dog of dog-to-be.
- Dysplasia - This is common among several breeds in the Sporting Group. Dysplasia affects both the hip and the elbows of this category of canine.
- Hypothyroidism - This means the dog’s thyroid does not produce enough hormones. It is easily corrected through the right medication. Prone to this particular problem are Golden Retrievers.
- Eye Problems - Many sporting dogs have eye problems later in life. Cocker Spaniels are affected by this.
- High energy - This is great if you are afflicted with the same nature. It may not be so great if you are a couch potato or only suffer fits of exercise mania. The excess of energy may also make it hard on the toddler and small child set.
Grooming Needs
The members of the Sporting Group require grooming. Some dogs need it more than others. Some, such as Labrador Retrievers, require only a weekly brushing. The Golden sheds more. If you want to keep this under control, you will have to brush it more than once a week.
High maintenance in grooming belongs to the Spaniels, and a few Setters of this group. Their coats demand frequent brushing and trimming. If you fail to meet the requirements, your dog will not look at its best. It may also be uncomfortable.
Specific Breeds of Sporting Dogs
You can find dogs weighing from 20 to 60 pounds in the Sporting Group.
Among the members of this breed, you will find the following breed of dogs:
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Curly-coated Retriever
- Golden Labrador Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Gordon Setter
- Irish Setter
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Brittany Spaniel
- VizlaInformation provided by Joe Hendrix of Oh My Dog Supplies, where you can find a extraordinary collection of raised dog bowls online.
The Kennel Club KCAI Scheme
The Chairman of The Kennel Club Accredited Instruction Board Mr. Paul Rawlings published a recent article in the kennel Club Field Trials Newsletter with the aim of encouraging field trial trainers to join the KCAI.
The scheme provides membership of a training program, leading to a national qualification in dog training and canine behavior.
Although the scheme purports to have over 600 members and has been running for 10 years it only has 5 members who are accredited with the status of advance trainers for working gundogs, the chairman himself who is also an independent professional gundog trainer is one of these, so the current scheme has only generated 4 qualified instructors over this time ~ hardly a scheme of major success !
This will come as no surprise to those critical of the kennel club’s administration, some people believe the kennel club has always moved too slowly and any help offered always comes at a price and interference, which strengthens the kennel club’s power in the dog world.
If you exclude the Chairman the other four accredited working gundog trainers, Tania Stapley (Roytan), Eileen Ayling (meadowmill), Mary Ward (Parsifal), Anthea Lawrence (Courtridge) have all qualified as working gundog trainers but not one of them is listed as a kennel club field trial judge, which may be an interesting observation to some.
It is also worth mentioning that none of the kennel club accredited trainers appear to be running kennel club training days, this privilege is reserved to kennel Club field trial Judges ? May be the kennel club believe a field trial judge is a better gundog trainer?
Working Gundog trainer Stewart North joined the scheme 2 years ago and allowed the membership to lapse, as he did not consider it to be of a major benefit, when we first established workinggundogs in 2007, we looked at joining a number of national organisations thinking this would add some benefit to our business?, the only thing they added was an expense!
Our trainer remembers speaking one evening to a course administrator of yet another national organisation (not the KC) purporting to offer some recognised status for dog training, we enquired about the course syllabus and the cost was going to be £900 for the week, and before the conversation finished our trainer was being asked for advice on a particular gundog problem from the person who was about to run the course! (For those cynical readers, the question was not to test our trainers knowledge?), he genuinely did not have a clue, we decided the qualification was not worth the cost!
Looking back when we decided to join the KCAI scheme, after paying registration fees a package of paperwork arrived, well talk about being buried in paperwork, it’s no wonder they only have 4 accredited trainers!
Our trainer is usually pretty good with paperwork, but with 40 gundogs coming in for training each week, we seriously questioned if it was necessary.
We believed that such a scheme would open other opportunities and give us a broader knowledge of the training world, but we were put off by the process!
Fortunately our business has not suffered as a result, which goes to show if you put too much reliance on qualifications, you will have no time to run a business!
Our success as gundog trainers is built on results, by helping people not only to control their gundogs, but more importantly helping them to understand why their gundogs behave in a certain way.
Our clients are the best source of future business; we work on the basis of keeping 90% happy by attaining some structured development, which is independently verified.
We have found that trying to keep every client happy, appeases a pet mentality, who do not wish to maintain a hunting instinct, which they have unwhittingly purchased!
Our advice to the Kennel Club would be to put more resources into supporting those on the register and refrain from seeking further membership, or risk being seen as another revenue generating project!
The kennel club gave a prompt response after reading the above article:
Tuesday, 3 May 2011
The Uk's leading Gundog web sites covering training, breeding, food and events
workinggundogs.co.uk is continuing to build its web presence and has achieved another record of being ranked it the top 1 million web sites registered on the world wide web, to add some prospective to this achievement in 2009 we were ranked in the top 5 million.
workinggundogs.co.uk is now also listed on the top UK index which contains 200,000 websites and is now listed 33,353.
In just over 2 years http://workinggundogs.co.uk has become one of the Uk’s leading websites covering information and advice on all things gundogs, in particular gundog training, it all started in February 2009, with the creation of the web site by author Stewart North.
The web site has been evolving ever since initially with a few hundred visitors and now has an average over 7000 visitors per month with very high pageviews/user and time on site/user ratios.
The web site has not only grown with new visitors, it now has a regular following of repeat users and has established a position on the web, which would be enviable by some of the major publishers and product providers.
All this has be achieved without sponsors and advertisers, which so often can be seen to clutter other web sites, we have also achieved top search engine rankings without paid advertising, proving that small business can generate a profile, which previous was only available to larger businesses.
We again thank our customers for their valued support.
All information in this blog can be verified at Alexa.com the worlds leading web information company.
workinggundogs.co.uk is now also listed on the top UK index which contains 200,000 websites and is now listed 33,353.
In just over 2 years http://workinggundogs.co.uk has become one of the Uk’s leading websites covering information and advice on all things gundogs, in particular gundog training, it all started in February 2009, with the creation of the web site by author Stewart North.
The web site has been evolving ever since initially with a few hundred visitors and now has an average over 7000 visitors per month with very high pageviews/user and time on site/user ratios.
The web site has not only grown with new visitors, it now has a regular following of repeat users and has established a position on the web, which would be enviable by some of the major publishers and product providers.
All this has be achieved without sponsors and advertisers, which so often can be seen to clutter other web sites, we have also achieved top search engine rankings without paid advertising, proving that small business can generate a profile, which previous was only available to larger businesses.
We again thank our customers for their valued support.
All information in this blog can be verified at Alexa.com the worlds leading web information company.
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