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 the pride of the field—with some practical tips to keep it fun and effective.

1. Mastering Heelwork

Heelwork is one of the foundational skills every gundog needs. A dog that walks to heel without pulling or wandering off is not only a pleasure to work with but also safer in the field.

Training Tips:

• Start small: Practice short sessions in your garden or local park, using a lead to guide your dog. Gradually increase the duration and complexity.
• Reward consistency: Use treats or a favourite toy to reward your dog for staying close and maintaining focus.
• Take it to the field: Once they’re confident on the lead, practice off-lead heelwork in a secure area. Add distractions like other dogs or game scents to test their focus.

2. Building Steadiness in the Field

A well-trained gundog is steady, calm, and reliable—even when the action heats up. Whether you’re at a driven shoot or a rough shoot, steadiness is an essential skill for every UK gundog.

Training Tips:

• Practice around distractions: Take your dog to a local shoot or a training day where they’ll hear gunfire and see other dogs working. Gradually build their confidence to stay calm and steady.
• Introduce delayed retrieves: Toss a dummy but wait before giving the command to retrieve. This builds patience and ensures they’re always looking to you for guidance.
• Use everyday distractions: Involve kids playing, bikes passing by, or even local wildlife to reinforce steadiness at home or in your local park.

3. Perfecting the Stop Whistle

The stop whistle is an invaluable command for controlling your gundog at a distance. Whether to prevent them from chasing after a hare or to redirect their focus, mastering this skill is a game-changer.

Training Tips:

• Start with proximity: Begin training close to your dog, using a whistle paired with a hand signal. Reward them when they stop and sit immediately.
• Increase distance gradually: Once your dog understands the command, practice it at greater distances in open fields or training grounds.
• Use real scenarios: During walks or training sessions, use the stop whistle in unexpected situations to reinforce its importance. For example, blow the whistle when your dog is mid-retrieve and reward them for stopping promptly.

Why These Focus Areas Matter

The countryside and shooting traditions offer a unique environment for gundogs, and focusing on these areas will ensure your dog is ready for anything. From walking to heel through a busy shoot line to responding instantly to the stop whistle, the right training will make your gundog a true asset in the field.