How to Train Field Marking Dogs

Field marking competitions test the ability of a hunting dog to identify the location of a downed bird. The dog's owner uses a combination of whistles and hand signals to direct it to the bird. In order to train your dog to effectively perform in marking, either for competition or practical application on a hunt, you must perform drills with the dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog whistle
  • Treats
  • Leash
  • Bird toy
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your dog to an open field where it will have plenty of room to run after the decoy.

    • 2

      Throw the bird toy out while the dog is facing away from the area so that it cannot see you throwing.

    • 3

      Point the dog in the direction of where the bird has landed and release the dog into the field.

    • 4

      Blow the whistle once to tell the dog to stop, sit and turn to you when it has passed the toy. Teach the dog to sit using the whistle. Work closely with the dog, blowing the whistle and then helping it to sit until it learns to associate the whistle with sitting. Alternatively, you can verbally cue the dog.

    • 5

      Use hand signals to instruct the dog to move left or right. Teach hand signals by using a leash and a partner to help move the dog in the direction ordered, until it learns what hand signals mean and can perform them at a distance.

    • 6

      Use three bursts of the whistle to instruct the dog to come closer. Teach the dog that three bursts mean "come." Blow the whistle while a partner uses a leash to move the dog toward you, until the dog learns to come to the sounds without a leash and at a distance.

    • 7

      Practice field marking drills regularly until the dog is easy to direct. Effective marking requires more than simply practicing for an hour or two in a weekend with the dog.