How to Train Waterfowl Hunting Dogs

There are several dogs breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Irish Water Spaniels, and St. John's Water Dogs, that are bred and raised to accompany hunters. When taught the proper signals, these dogs will retrieve whatever waterfowl is downed. The process of training a dog to retrieve game begins with finding a puppy that will not only successfully perform his duties as a hunting companion but will also fit in well with the family and make a loyal and loving pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic duck decoys
  • Waterfowl training dummy
  • Dog treats
  • Shotgun
  • Leash
  • Collar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place several plastic decoy ducks into an open area. Allow the dog to explore the decoys but do not allow it to attempt to pick one up. The dog will eventually learn that it is only meant to retrieve what you down, not any other animals that may be present in the water.

    • 2

      Throw a waterfowl training dummy into the area around the decoys. Utter the word "retrieve" after the dummy is thrown. Repeat this process until the dog begins to associate the command "retrieve" with the desired action.

    • 3

      Reward the dog with a treat when it brings the training dummy back. It will be the dog's natural instinct to bring the training dummy back. If the dog does not bring the dummy to you, take it from its mouth and try again.

    • 4

      Shoot a gun into the air several yards away from the dog. This will help it become accustomed to the loud bang.

    • 5

      Move a few feet closer to the dog and shoot once again. The idea is to eventually have the dog comfortable with hearing the sound of the shotgun overhead.

    • 6

      Take the dog inside of the boat, if applicable. Allow the dog to sniff around for several minutes and remove him. Allow the dog access to the boat for longer periods of time over the subsequent days. This will help the dog remain calm once the boat begins to move.

    • 7

      Keep the dog on a leash during the first hunt. Many dogs will jump the gun and attempt to retrieve the bird before commanded. Allow the dog off the leash and use the "retrieve" command once a fowl has been downed.

    • 8

      Praise the dog once it successfully retrieves the game upon command.