How to Train a Dog to Chase Birds

Dogs trained to reap excitement from bird discovery will be more effective bird chasers than dogs trained to get a thrill from the chase itself. Bird chasing abilities in dogs is called "birdiness" to dog trainers. Developing birdiness requires a basic understanding of the commands "whoa," "come" and "heel," and practice with training pigeons.

Things You'll Need

  • Training pigeons
  • Brush pile
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Train the dog to follow the commands of "whoa," "come" and "heel." Whoa will tell the dog to stop, while heel tells the dog to walk by the trainers side until given further notice.

    • 2
      Purchase training pigeons to train your bird-chasing dog.

      Place a training pigeon in the center of a pile of brush. Create a doughnut-shaped pile of brush around the bird so the dog cannot see it.

    • 3

      Lead the dog on the leash to the location of the training pigeon and once the dog sees the bird, restrain it.

    • 4

      Flush the bird far away, either with a bird launcher or with the assistance of a helper. Restrain the dog if it tries to chase the training pigeon.

    • 5

      Practice with the dog and training pigeons until it fully understands the commands and follows them every time.