Gun Dog Forum

Hi I am looking for advice.

I hunted grouse with my 7th month's gsp this weekend. He has been introduced to pigeons once and I progressively introduced him to gun shot also.

The day went on fine but he doesn't stay with me most of the time. He is used to the woods as we walk in the woods several times a week but he is starting to wander more and more. I shot a grouse and he went back to me running like crazy and he wanted it bad. Later he busted one and tried to catch it. I expected that and was actually looking for this situation.

But most of the time he is not that close to me and since I hunt in dense wood, I loose sight of him very very fast. How will I know If he ever points? Should I begin recalling him often to ensure he stays closer? I am not going to put any pressure on him as he is still young but I was wondering if you could share your experience if you hunt in the dense forest. Thanks!

I am training a 7 month old GSP also right now. I would get a beeper collar. The Tri-tronics beeper collar will give a different tone when your dog is on point. Not only will it help you keep a location of your dog, but it will also tell you when the dog is on point. Good luck

Beeper collar works good. Grouse hunters and trialers have for decades used a simple sheep bell. When it stops, better hurry, he is on point.

Beeper collar now, let him run and flush if he wants to, and don't shoot any birds he doesn't point. Always follow rule #1: Don't shoot any bird he doesn't point.

Thanks for the advice.

I was not aware of this rule :

"Don't shoot any bird he doesn't point". Very good to know, I didn't think it was important. I wanted to at least show him one so he can have an idea what to look for smell wise.

GSP Addict,

I would modify that rule a little and say "Never shoot a bird he has flushed". If a bird flushes in front of you and the dog is hunting somewhere further out I see no problem shooting it. Just make sure it isn't one he flushed.

Ezzy

It makes sense and its a lot more fun for me