The article emphasizes that calmness in gundogs, particularly spaniels and retrievers, is a trainable skill rather than a mere temperament trait. It outlines the importance of teaching calm behavior through strategies like capturing calm moments and reinforcing stillness, providing practical steps for training in various environments. Building this skill enhances steadiness and performance in diverse situations.
The “Premack recall”: using what they want (sniffing/running) as the reward its for both pet and working
If your dog has a “selective” recall—brilliant in the kitchen, mysteriously deaf in the park—this is for you. It’s also for the keen spaniel or retriever who’s all in on scent, cover, birds, or movement and finds a standard “come = biscuit” deal a bit underwhelming. The good news: you don’t need to out-shout the…
Why Your 5-Month-Old Gundog Stops Coming Back — And How to Fix It
It’s incredibly common for young gundogs to become a little less reliable with recall around the five-month mark. One day they’re glued to your side… and the next they’ve discovered how exciting the world really is! If your pup has suddenly stopped coming back on the first command when off-lead, don’t worry. This is normal,…
How Gundogs and Fieldsports Can Benefit Wildlife and the Environment
Fieldsports are activities that involve hunting game animals, such as pheasants, grouse, deer, foxes and rabbits, often with the aid of trained dogs and firearms. These activities have a long history and tradition in the United Kingdom, and are often seen as part of the rural culture and lifestyle. However, they also have a large…
3 Essential Training Focuses for Gundogs in 2025
If you’re a gundog owner you’ll know how rewarding it is to see your dog thrive in the field. Whether you’re preparing for a shoot day or just enjoying walking your dog in the countryside, training is the key to success. In 2025, here are three areas to focus on that will make your gundog…
How Shooting Boosts the UK Economy and the Countryside
Shooting is a widely enjoyed and diverse activity throughout the UK, encompassing various types of firearms, targets, and settings. This multifaceted pastime appeals to a broad audience, ranging from recreational enthusiasts to serious competitors. It is not only a means of sport but also a cultural tradition for many. Alongside its recreational aspects, shooting can…
Nurturing a Young Gundog: An Essential Guide to Gunshot Introduction
Bringing up a keen hunting partner and faithful companion in the form of a gundog requires skills, patience, and time. Of the many necessary aspects of their training, one crucial component that must be managed effectively is the introduction to gunshots. The initial exposure to gunshots can significantly influence your young gundog’s performance in the…
How to Prepare Your Dog for the Shooting Season with Pigeon Shooting
If you are a dog owner and a shooting enthusiast, you might be wondering how to get your dog ready for the shooting season. Whether you have a young dog that needs some training or an experienced dog that needs some refreshing, pigeon shooting can be a great way to sharpen their skills and get…
How to Make Fried Duck: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Fried duck is a dish that can be enjoyed all year round, but especially in the colder months when you crave something warm and comforting. Fried duck is crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and full of flavour. It can be served with various sauces, sides and salads, depending on your…
Gundog Training Equipment: What You Need to Get Started
If you have a gundog breed, you might be interested in training them for field work. Gundogs are bred to assist hunters in finding, flushing and retrieving game, such as birds and rabbits. Gundog training is a great way to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, as well as strengthening your bond and communication….
How to Cook Game Meat: Tips and Recipes for a Delicious Meal
Game meat is the meat of wild animals that are hunted for food, such as deer, rabbit, pheasant, grouse, duck and pigeon. Game meat has many advantages over farmed meat, such as being leaner, more flavourful, more sustainable and more ethical. However, game meat also requires some special care and attention when cooking, as it…
Ensuring the Health and Happiness of Your Gundog: Essential Tips for Care and Maintenance
Introduction A well-cared-for gundog is not only essential for its performance in the field but also crucial for its overall health and happiness. As responsible owners, it’s our duty to provide proper care and maintenance to ensure our four-legged partners are in peak condition. In this article, we will discuss some essential tips to keep…
The Importance of Pigeon Shooting for the UK: A Conservation Perspective
Introduction Pigeon shooting, often a topic of debate and controversy, plays a crucial role in the UK’s conservation efforts. While some may view it simply as a recreational activity, it is important to recognize the significant impact that pigeon shooting has on the country’s agricultural industry, biodiversity, and habitat preservation. In this blog post, we…
Summer Boilie
Carp fishing boilie that’s ideal for summer: Ingredients: Instructions:
What is Wildfowling?
Wildfowling is a form of hunting that involves the shooting of wild ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. It is typically carried out in coastal areas, where these birds migrate to during the winter months. Wildfowling is a popular activity in many countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and parts of Europe. Like other…
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