Every year, many hunters welcome a new puppy into their lives—just in time to prepare for the upcoming bird season. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of bonding with a new best friend and future hunting companion. If you’ve spent hours training your pup, the anticipation for fall is even greater.
But here’s a gentle reminder: no matter how much effort you’ve invested in your puppy, or how much time they’ve spent with a professional trainer—don’t expect perfection.
When it comes to real hunting conditions, there are simply too many variables for your puppy to perform consistently at an early age. Wild birds, multiple scent cones, wild flushes, running birds, blowing wind and many other factors can affect a pointing dog’s performance—factors that your puppy may not have encountered during training. Therefore, do not expect too much, even the best hunting dogs can sometimes simply forget about staying steady to the flush.
If your new puppy falls apart on opening day, don’t in the least be discouraged. A puppy being confused and losing focus is a true “natural.’ If you remain patient and consistent with your training methods, your hunting dog will grow into a confident and capable partner.
Practical tips to help you and your new hunting dog navigate the first season
- If your puppy is under one year of age, don’t be upset with your dog breaking point, chasing birds or even bumping birds. All these mistakes are normal for a puppy under one year of age.
- Do not use an e-collar for correcting a puppy for mistakes in the field. After careful study and yard introduction, you may begin using the e-collar, but not until after the puppy’s first year in the field.
- An e-collar is never a substitute for well thought-out yard training.
- Don’t carry a gun the first few days of hunting this fall. Handle your puppy rather than hunt over him. Invite a family member or friend to be the shooter. You can’t properly handle a puppy in the field and carry a gun; your puppy needs 100% of your attention.
- Plan a continuous training program through next summer and you’ll be amazed at the maturity your young dog will demonstrate during his sophomore year of hunting.
The first bird season with a new puppy is a journey filled with learning, patience and plenty of memorable moments. While mistakes are inevitable, they’re also essential stepping stones toward building a reliable and skilled hunting companion. By focusing on steady, thoughtful training and giving your puppy the time and space to grow, you’re laying the foundation for years of successful hunts and shared adventures.
