A dog points to where the game is.
Hunting is one of the more popular outdoor activities in Minnesota. Whether hunting deer, fowl or pheasant, many people like to have their dogs accompany them on their adventure. The dog, of course, will need training in the sport of hunting.
Function
Many hunters in Minnesota use dogs when tracking during particular hunting seasons, such as waterfowl season, which begins in October, or pheasant season, which runs mid-October through the beginning of January. Dogs are used to flush and retrieve game and fowl because they can often enter certain areas humans cannot, which makes them a priceless addition.
Breeds
Many breeds of dogs can be trained for hunting, depending on the game sought, but the most common breeds used are pointers, retrievers, spaniels, setters and hounds. Terriers can also be trained for tracking small game such as mice. Like hunt trials, this has become a sport known as earthdog trials.
Types
Dogs are usually trained to specialize in a certain type of hunting. Retrievers tend to love water so they are ideal for a waterfowl hunter. Spaniels, setters and pointers are considered better for pheasant hunting. Hounds are usually chosen for land-based hunting and terriers are best for earthdogging because of their short stature.
Considerations
A hunter should consider learning different training methods if he going to be training two or more dogs. Like humans, every dog is different and learns differently.
Misconceptions
You cannot go into a training session without an objectionable plan and goal. Also, while it is a common belief that yelling equals firm when making corrections, dogs will soon become tone deaf and assume that is your normal tone of voice, according to the Minnesota chapter of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association.
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