Scott Linden Outdoors

So, my commitment to Flick is to get him to the NAVHDA utility test. And pass. Hopefully with a Prize 1. I also want him to be safe when he pins birds.

To me, that means steady to wing, shot and fall. (Everyone has their own definition of “finished dog,” so I won’t go there today.) Sure, it’s hard. It’s also not what is always appropriate in all hunting situations. But once mastered, it would seem logical that you could always “unlearn” it, adjust to the current conditions … or do nothing and enjoy your version of a “steady” dog. Those who have Invitational Champions do it, “meat hunters” too. But many start with the bar at it’s highest level.

I choose that.

But it’s easier said than done, especially as a one-person training staff. Especially the “fall” part of the equation. But I’ve been experimenting with something that may be of value to you – let me know what you think.

I have two remote-controlled bird launchers, and plenty of pigeons. The basic set-up involves them, a checkcord, and a puppy. Flick is check-corded into the yard and whoa’d. I fly the first bird (ensuring the launcher shoots it away from us to eliminate temptation) while enforcing steadiness with a half-hitch or soothing touch and words. If he behaves, Flick then sees a wing-clipped or dead bird hit the ground (from the other launcher, shooting it toward us a bit). Compliance earns an occasional retrieve and (always) massive praise. Then back into the crate to contemplate his good work. Goofs are downplayed, but as they say on Seinfeld: “No (pigeon) soup for you!”

Add gunshots, different locations, scent cone or wild flushes as cues, and (I hope) we’re on our way to steadiness. And maybe away from it. Eventually. In some cases.