Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- Dog food
- Low-volume blank pistol
Instructions
Using Food
Put a bowl of food down outside for your dog and encourage him to start eating.
Move approximately 20 to 25 yards away from your dog.
Shoot a low-volume blank pistol two or three times.
Repeat this exercise at meal times to allow your dog to develop a positive association with the sound of gunfire.
Using Alternative Reinforcers
Take your dog out for a play session. Allow your dog to point, flush and chase quail if you have the resources.
Follow your dog while it hunts, romps and plays. Take a low-volume blank pistol with you.
Shoot the pistol while your dog is hunting or playing. Watch your dog's reaction. Repeat the exercise whenever possible if your dog appears undeterred by the gunfire. Wait a week before trying again if your dog appears afraid of the loud noise.