VIDEO: Encouraging Natural Retrieve (sharing the kill)

[Higgins]

There have been some recent discussions about encouraging a natural retrieve. This is a video I did a while ago that I thought some might find helpful. The text was included with the video on Youtube. I copied and pasted it here.

Here is an example of one of the things I do early on, to nurture the natural retrieve (sharing the kill). This is Glencuan William, one of my UK imports. I start the session by walking, and holding the bird I just shot. Will is given the opportunity to take the bird if he wants. He does and runs off. He treats me just as he would another pack (group) member. He starts the keep away game. I want him to bring me the bird but I'm not going to ask him for it. I want him to demonstrate his free will and choose to bring it and share it with me. I squat down and when he runs by, I stroke him. Each time he runs by, I touch him to show him I want to play but I have no intention of stealing his prize. After just a few passes, he decides to share his bird. This is the beginning of his natural retrieve training.
https://youtu.be/beqjaQJY2yI



Brad Higgins
http://www.HigginsGundogs.com
___________________________
Higgins Gundogs hunting etiquette

Dogs: Stay in touch and handle well. Always honor another dog's point, be steady when necessary and manage the birds for the gun.
Handlers: Be silent in the hunt. Allow the dog the freedom to do his work. Nurture the natural retrieve.

[Higgins]

Here is another video of the same dog a bit later, retrieving a shot partridge and then some water retrieves.

Enjoy,

https://youtu.be/vNFjRfPZg88


Brad Higgins
http://www.HigginsGundogs.com
___________________________
Higgins Gundogs hunting etiquette

Dogs: Stay in touch and handle well. Always honor another dog's point, be steady when necessary and manage the birds for the gun.
Handlers: Be silent in the hunt. Allow the dog the freedom to do his work. Nurture the natural retrieve.

[bobman]

very nice work I enjoy reading your posts and training philosophy