When Should I Introduce My Hunting Dog to Gun Fire?

Question: We are making good progress with dummy retrieves. At just 5 months Azalea is doing blind retrieves with multiple dummies. What is the best age to introduce them to the gunshot?

Jer's Answer: Thanks for the message and for being a DogBone Training Library Member. I really appreciate your support.

I introduce pups to gunfire depending on a few variables. I don't typically use age as one of those determine factors. With a retriever, I'm not in any rush and would prefer to take that a little slower to ensure no issues. A lot depends on the level of confidence they have. I also look to connect it to something they enjoy. I use retrieve a lot and sometimes will use birds depending on the scenario. Using birds means I've gotten past the intro to birds obviously.

Check out the several videos we have in the library series that show the intro to gunfire with a number of dogs. "Bella...be good" for example.

That said, after reading your message it sounds like you're off to a great start. Keep in mind, you have a 5 month old pup and you're doing far more than I would be doing with my pups at that age. Just my opinion, and without seeing you or your dog, I want to be sure to stress...be patient. Taking on too much, too quickly is a sure fire way to set yourself and pup back in the long run.

I hope this helps, keep me posted and have fun with your training.
Your friend,
Jeremy

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