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This is destined to be the classic work on training the Labrador retriever as an all-around hunting dog. Noted breeder and trainer Mike Gould takes us from the very beginning-selecting a puppy for athleticism, "birdyness," conformation, intelligence, and personality-to the end result, a top-flight, do-anything, go-anywhere Labrador shooting dog. Mike teaches his special techniques of using love, solid obedience and faithful attention to detail to build-brick by brick-a powerful, poised and confident gun dog that can handle any challenge, from quail, grouse and dove to geese, ducks, and even wild turkeys-yes, wild turkeys. Mike talks about the factors that other trainers overlook: habitat, terrain, scenting conditions, conformation, and most of all, birds. The book includes a stunning 16-page color section featuring the famous Grand River gun dogs, with photos by K.D. McGraw and Gary Hubbell.
Customer Review: Two books rather than one?
The author clearly loves his work, the dogs and the outdoors and for much of this book we are entertained with his adventures.The rest of the book concentrates (loosely) on training your dog. I found it to lack the detail and layout to use as a training manual. Although it is a fine read I would prefer to see more of a reference manual and read the anectdotes with a cognac at the end of the day.
Customer Review: The Labrador Shooting Dog
If you like stories then this is the book for you. Gould does not discuss training until you are half way through the book. The training starts with introducing the dog to the field and the waist cord. You will do better to look elsewhere for more in depth training information, especially if you need to start training at the basic level of come, sit and stay. I would recomend "Game Dog" by Wolters. He is precise and compasionate in his training techniques.


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