How to Train Tree Dogs

Tree dogs are squirrel dogs, coonhounds and other hunting dog breeds. Training the tree dog is based on teaching your dog to pick up the scent of a raccoon or squirrel, then track the animal until it is forced up a tree and the hunter arrives. Be patient with your tree dog. Make the training sessions short, fun and rewarding for both you and your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash &collar
  • Raccoon or squirrel hide
  • Small live raccoons
  • Shotgun
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start training your dog when it is very young as all lessons are fresh and new. The training sessions should be daily but short, about 15 minutes. A puppy has a short attention span.

    • 2

      Plan sessions right before meal times. Your puppy will associate the meal as part of the reward for the training. The food treat rewards will also be more accepted for good behavior.

    • 3

      Use one word commands such as sit, come, down and stay, using hand gestures to demonstrate what you wish your dog to do. When the dog accomplishes the behavior, give a treat and a lot of praise. Use a soft, calm tone of voice, even through all the repetitions. You will get better results with a positive, composed demeanor.

    • 4

      Train your dog the fundamentals of going in the truck and prepping for a hunting session once the basics are taught. The dog must feel comfortable getting in the truck and going to the trails. Have an old coon hide with you to get your dog accustomed to the smell.

    • 5

      Teach your dog tracking. Use the coon hide to drag it along a short path, over the ground and other objects, finally burying it. Then let your dog follow the scent. Give your dog a treat and a lot of praise when the coon hide is found.

    • 6

      Repeat the process of dragging the hide along a bigger stretch of ground and over objects. Instead of burying the coon hide, tie it up in a tree to teach your dog to "tree" the animal. Remember the treats and praise every time.

    • 7

      Use simple commands like "go get them," "get the coon" or another short phrase to associate the action of looking for the prey and treeing it.

    • 8

      Begin advanced training with live raccoons in an open area. Use smaller raccoons near many trees to allow the chase while treeing the raccoon.

    • 9

      Introduce your dog to loud noises through all the training as an introduction to the sound of a gun. Use a gunshot from a far distance from your dog at first---150 to 200 yards---and get closer and closer to your dog. This gets your dog used to the loud sounds without being startled.

    • 10

      Take your new tree dog out with some experienced coon dogs on practice trails before the actual hunt. Most young dogs learn from natural instinct and respect in following the older lead dogs.