First Bird Contact

[FLocker]

As Steve Martin would say: "I've found my special purpose

[tommyboy72]

Nice pics. Did that end up being a retrieve or just a fun pick up the bird and carry it around? In any case really nice pics.

[FLocker]

Thanks, iPhone does a decent job.

It was really interesting. I wouldn't calli it a retrieve. My goal was to have her just have a good time with a flapper, and build some confidence around a live bird. She absolutely loved it. I just watched her and tried to shut up. She would come to me but, was possessive with the bird when i'd eventually try to reach down and throw it again. This dog has never been posssessive with a dummy in her life. When i would jog off. she'd follow me, but had NO interest in dropping that bird at my feet for another toss.

Thoughts on next steps? (i guess i should really move on to the training section)

[ACooper]

is that an ESS or a Cocker?

[FLocker]

Well, she is a cocker, but the breeder told me if she gets over 35 lbs, i could register her as a springer. At any rate, I think that I will have her tail docked a little further to increase our chances in the show ring.

[jbr03]

FLocker- i noticed the familiar looking foliage and saw your handle name and put 2 and 2 together. whereabouts in FL do you live/hunt?

[birddogger]

Cool pictures!!!

I wouldn't get in too big of a hurry on the formal training if I were you.

Charlie

[Blackjaw]

Don't Re-dock the tail!!! That tail looks like it is docked at 2/3 length which is appropriate for a field bred dog.

[FLocker]

I was just kidding about that, I have come to love that tail. The heat down here must be making me delirious.