Full Description
Written for anyone who trains working spaniels, this book will be of special benefit to novice and newcomer trainers. Training the Working Spaniel makes it simple for anyone to train their gundog, no matter what facilities are available.
The book contains chapters on training the urban gundog; how to keep a working dog in a family home; and introducing first-timers to working their spaniel in a variety of shooting situations. Reflecting the huge popularity of Cockers, the author gives plenty of advice aimed specifically at Cockers as well as Springers. There is also information on the lesser-known spaniel breeds including Irish Water Spaniels, Clumbers, Field Spaniels, Sussex Spaniels, Welsh Springers and Brittany Spaniels.
The author takes the reader, whether novice or experienced, all the way from teaching the pup to 'hup' to competing in field trials at the highest levels. There is material covering everything from the first lessons in sitting and staying, to working on live game. The book then covers advanced work in the field, rough shooting, picking-up, and training as a peg dog. The final part of the book introduces the reader to elite spaniel work in field trials as well as giving guidance on breeding your own dogs. With unique access to the most successful spaniel trainers, the author brings exclusive tips from the top that can be used by any beginner.
Contents
Acknowledgements
Introduction: Meet the Guinea-pups
Part One: Training your Spaniel from Puppy to Eighteen Months
1. First Principles
2. Early Learning
3. Puppy Assessment
4. How to Hunt
5. The Right Road to Retrieving
6. Ready, Steady, Steadiness
7. Dog About Town
8. Putting it All Together
Part Two: Training and Working your Young Dog in the Field
9. Rough Shooting with No Rough Shooting
10. Picking-up Without Tears
11. Beating But Not Beaten
12. Paw Perfect on the Peg
13. Facing up to a Field Trial
14. Buying or Breeding the Next Dog
Appendix 1: Other Spaniel Breeds
Appendix 2: Glossary
Appendix 3: Useful Contacts
Index
