How to Use a Pitbull As a Birddog

When people think of work for pit bulls to do, they often think of guarding. While it's true that pit bulls can be trained as guard dogs, it is not the only task they are limited to. Pit bulls are an energetic, sturdy and intelligent breed. They are eager to please their human companions and easy to train, despite having a stubborn streak. Pit bulls have the energy, the stamina and the intelligence necessary to work as birddogs if you are willing to put some time and effort into training them.

Things You'll Need

  • Retrieving dummy
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

  1. Teaching Retrieve

    • 1

      Teach your pit bull that "fetch" is a fun game to play. Pit bulls are muscular and love a good game of tug-of-war, but they aren't above playing fetch either. Start by tossing your pit bull's favorite toy away and rewarding it for chasing after it.

    • 2

      Wave a retrieving dummy in front of your pit bull's face while restraining it gently by the chest with your other hand. This will show your pit bull that the dummy, or bird, is a desirable object. Talk to your pit bull in an excited voice to encourage its play (and prey) drive.

    • 3

      Toss the dummy a few feet away and release your pit bull to chase after it. Encourage it to retrieve the dummy with whichever command you choose, and then call it back to you. Reward your pit bull with praise and a treat for bringing the dummy back.

    • 4

      Increase the length of your throws gradually as your pit bull learns to bring the dummy back to you each and every time you toss it. Slowly phase out the use of treats as a reward, but always continue praising your pit bull for doing the right thing. Pit bulls love positive attention from their humans, so the more praise you give your pit bull, the more eager it will be to keep learning.

    Field Conditioning

    • 5

      Take your pit bull to the field frequently to help it become accustomed to the environment in which it will be working. Wear your hunting clothes and bring any gear your dog will be around, including other dogs or hunting partners. Reward your pit bull frequently during these outings, so that it learns to associate the environment with positive experiences.

    • 6

      Practice the retrieve in the field. This will help your pit bull learn how to retrieve it from water, weeds or whatever else it may encounter on a real hunting trip.

    • 7

      Give your pit bull time to get used to the sound of gunfire. The noise may be intimidating to your dog at first. Reward your pit bull with treats and praise every time you fire the gun. Your dog needs to see the gun fire as a positive experience. Be patient and always reward your pit bull for staying calm.