Hi I would really love to do gun dog trials with my retriever (dolly retrieving, not shooting). I was wondering if there are any good books to start me off with and how and what to teach her. Any info would be great. Thanks S-J and Dori
Field trials does involve shooting but there are working tests throughout the summer where you are only expected to retrieve dummys. Your best bet would be to try and find a trainer to start you off. Not sure on retriever training as I only have springers, gwp's and pointers but The Gundog Club may be a good place to start. Helen
Hi Dori-Katie. Are you a member of a breed club? I had my first lessons from a weimar breed club , usefull as they teach you breed specific training and what to expect when training your breed. classes didnt cost a lot and you also get to meet others doing the same thing. it was also good fun! Even if you are not a member many will still allow you to join them for training, so it still be worth giving them a ring. lesley
Thanks pootle I have email a guy that only lives up the road from me. He does gun dog training that i didn't know until i found his website earlier while searching, he may have some ideas of any breed club around here and help me to start off. There are some gun dog shows coming up at malvern which is about 20 minutes from me so will pop over there and have a look to.
Thank Helen I thought the field trials were without the gun sorry, yes it is the working test i would like to do then.
you could also email the kennel club and ask for details of retriever specific training clubs in your region. hth
Keep us posted let us know how you get on. It will be hard work, but great fun! bet you wont stop smiling when you watch him get it right! Lesley
