Establishing a Solid Quartering Pattern - An Interview with David Lauberby Geoffrey A. EnglishLast issue we spent time talking with David Lauber, regarding the introduction of young dogs to gunfire during fieldwork. This issue we will continue our talk, but step back a bit and talk about establishing a strong quartering pattern before shooting over the dog and eventually steadying a young spaniel.
(Continue)
Force Fetchby Amy Dahl, Ph.D.Force Fetching Retrievers is difficult, especially when you lack experience. When a dog does not respond, do you need to apply more pressure, less pressure, ease up on requirements, shorten the session, or perhaps bear down and keep trying until he gets it? Even experienced trainers can find it hard to read a dog that is doing nothing.
(Continue)Southern Doves, A Legacy of Traditionby R. Michael DiLulloThe breeze woke me from my semi-sleep-like state. The heat was beginning to dissipate, although, the sun was still high in the late afternoon sky. Through the shimmering mirage-like waves, I could see two camo-clad hunters taking-up their position across the field. My two female English Springer Spaniels “Bess” and “Flo,” lying one on each side, had managed to find what limited shade was available. I leaned back against the roll of hay and checked my watch. It was nearly 4 p.m., the magic hour was approaching, the sky would soon be full of doves. I would have plenty of targets and the dogs, hopefully would have birds to retrieve.
(Continue)
