Retriever Training

FREQUIENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When do you start training a dog?

You are training your dog with every interaction. Structured retriever training can start as soon as the pup gets their adult teeth. That’s usually no later than 6 months of age.

I don’t want to screw him up before he starts his professional training. What should I do until then?

Start with the basics around the house using treats to reward when teaching his name, calling him in, potty training, and/or introducing the kennel command. Keep him on a lead for safety if the pup is ever outside an enclosed yard/run. A couple small hand-held spray bottles filled with water can be handy to correct barking or enforcing other boundaries like staying off the furniture.

Please don’t just leave him in a kennel. In the past, owners have avoided doing anything in fear of making a mistake. That will just make his professional training longer. Take him out to socialize, ride in a vehicle, and introduce all those areas where you’ll be hunting on long walks. If it is warm, let him go for a swim without forcing the pup into the water. Keep it fun and stay active. Dogs are very forgiving if you happen to make a mistake.

Mike Lardy has a great article called, The Right Start which ran in the retriever journal: http://www.totalretriever.com/about/just-getting-started.html

How much exercise does a retriever need?

Retrievers, like most hunting breeds, are known for being active. A healthy, adult Retriever, regardless of its breed, will need about an hour’s worth of good exercise every day. I’m not talking about a walk around the block. This means chasing, swimming, playing, and running. They are all individuals, but one thing is true: Without regular exercise, you may find your happy healthy dog’s behavior become unruly and their weight swell.

What about the size of the kennel as it relates to the dog getting exercise?

Dogs lay in a kennel, they won’t get much exercise. Just because it is larger don’t think he’ll be running laps. You need to get into a routine, so your dog is regularly active.

What about exercise during hot weather?

Go early or late during the cooler parts of the day. Ensure you have plenty of cool water available. Lakes and ponds can heat up as well. At times it may be easier on the dog to run in the shade versus swimming in water. If the dog is panting excessively or its tongue hangs out of the side of its mouth, it is time to quit, find some shade, and introduce cool drinking water. Dogs are susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke which can kill or permanently impair your dog. Keeping your dog active and at a healthy weight impacts its ability to stand up to the stresses of summer heat.