How to Train Pointers Without Training Collars

There are effective ways to train a pointer to hunt without resorting to training collars. Pointers are classified by the American Kennel Club under the sporting group; they usually exhibit a strong will to work accompanied by stamina and courage. When a pointer's eagerness to please is accompanied by great genetics and effective training methods, the end result can be an astounding, hard-driving, hunting dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Leather collar
  • Check cord
  • Gloves
  • 2-by-3-foot plywood board
  • Treats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Put the leather collar on your pointer and snap on the check cord, which is basically a long rope with a snap on the end that is attached to the ring on the dog's collar. While you can make a check cord, those available commercially are generally far more resistant to wear and tear. Wear a good pair of gloves to protect against rope burns.

    • 2

      Walk a few steps away from your pointer and crouch down at your knees. Call your pointer. A good hunting dog must respond promptly. Your goal is to have your pointer stop what it is doing and come in your direction. Try not to pull on the check cord unless absolutely necessary. When your pointer comes to you, praise it lavishly and offer a treat. Work on increasing distance gradually.

    • 3

      Train your pointer to heel. Keep your dog on the opposite side from which you would normally mount your shotgun to shoot. Shorten the check cord. When your dog pulls, come to a halt and use a treat to lure it besides you, back into heel position. Give the treat when in perfect heel position. Alternatively, do a sudden "about face" when your pointer is ahead of you, leaving the dog behind you, catching up.

    • 4

      Teach the ''Whoa'' command. This is the most important command your pointer must know. It means simply ''stop doing whatever you are doing, until I release you." Start by introducing the plywood board to the dog. Lure it onto the board by placing some treats on it. Don't let the dog get off; restrain it with the check cord and say, ''Whoa." Release after your dog stays still for one second. Increase time gradually and move the board to more distracting areas.

    • 5

      Get your dog familiar with release commands so it knows when the training is over. For instance, if you ask it to heel off leash next to you, give a release command such as ''OK'' to let it know the exercise is over and it is now free to go back to hunting. If you say ''OK'' after you give the ''Whoa'' command your pointer will know it is free to move about.

    • 6
      Pointing is learned in the field.

      Practice the come, heel and whoa commands, repeatedly adding challenges such as distance, distractions and duration. These three commands are the fundamental ones for your pointer. Learning to point is something that will happen on the field and is "taught" by the birds. An inexperienced pointer may flush the birds and chase them at first, but with time, instincts will take over and your pointer will learn to be more cautious, which will ultimately lead to pointing.