HUNTING
USE WATERFOWLING LULLS AS TEACHABLE MOMENTS By Scott Haugen
D
uck season is here, but it’s a slow day in the blind. It might be just the opportunity you need to get some dog work done. If you have a new pup, a dog that needs help in an actual hunting situation, or a driven dog that gets
bored sitting in one place for hours, then you have a golden opportunity to make that dog a better hunting companion.
EARLIER THIS FALL, a buddy had his 11-month-old black Lab on a duck hunt. It was incessantly whining and wouldn’t sit still. When birds
approached, the dog would take off running into the water, breaking even before we shot. “I don’t know what’s wrong with him,” said my buddy. “He’s from a very elite bloodline …” Genetics are only part of the puzzle when it comes to building a good hunting dog. If you don’t teach a dog
Duck season is here, and evaluating what needs to be done to help maximize your dog’s potential – fast – is important in breaking bad behaviors and eliminating unwanted habits. (SCOTT HAUGEN) calsportsmanmag.com | NOVEMBER 2021 California Sportsman
49
