How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Hunt Pheasant

The countryside is tranquil, peaceful, and serene. What better way to spend your afternoons than a lovely walk through the woodlands and hills? An even better idea is to turn it into a hobby. Teaching your Labrador companion to hunt pheasants with you will create a bond between you like no other. 

Labradors have been bred to be hunting dogs and their energetic, driven nature make them the ideal hunting buddy. There are two types of Labradors that can both be used for hunting. Fieldline Labradors are the ones that really rise to the challenge. They are extremely fast runners with an agile physique. Showline Labs are also able to be trained to hunt, however, they are a little slower. An advantage to this is that they are a little more docile and great as family pets.

Pheasant hunting has been around since the 11th century. Popularised in England, it was brought over to The United States in the 16th century. 

During the dry season, pheasants like to hang around water and so it is perfect that your pooch is bred to be a keen swimmer and retriever. Pheasants will often retreat uphill into grassy land and so your Labrador will be the perfect dog for the task. Their fast pace allows them to chase the pheasants at ease on an incline. Combine this with their award-winning sense of smell, as they need not see the bird to find it. 

The command is hard to teach and will take anywhere from eight to ten months. Even so, Labradors are extremely intelligent dogs and so their bright personality and willingness to learn makes the challenge easier. 

To get started, your pooch will need to be used to the sound of gunfire as it will be you that does most of the hunting. Take your Lab to a shooting range in which are you allowed to walk dogs. This can be done when your pup is around ten weeks old. As your puppy begins to get older and used to the sound of gunfire, begin to walk your pup closer to the sounds. Eventually, you should be able to shoot the gun yourself with your dog staying calm and by your side. 

Labradors are food lovers and so an extremely helpful tip is to stock up on their favourite treats for them to snack on when they have done a good job.