How old is too old?

[rreichert]

My father and I are avid quail hunters, my father has trained many dogs from when they are pups, and I have trained 2. We were recently offered an English Pointer that is nearly 2 years old. The dog has a good nose, but almost no field experience. The question i am getting at is, how difficult will it be to train her now that she will nearly be 2 years old by the time we get her? All input is appreciated!

-Rob

[ccm352]

I dont know how Pointers are for training, but trying to train a lab after age 2 requires a firm hand and a 2 x 4. Its doable, but just requires alot of patience and effort.

[WAYNE1]

but trying to train a lab after age 2 requires a firm hand and a 2 x 4

If you need a 2X4 it ain't the dog....it's the trainer...!!!

[huntnma]

ORIGINAL: WAYNE1

If you need a 2X4 it ain't the dog....it's the trainer...!!!

yep........

[Phil from Maine]

First I would get her accoustomed to you. Then get a check cord and some birds and get her started. You will probally have your work cut out for a little while breaking old habits she may have. But, if you get her going as if it is a game she will start coming around. At 2 years old she
should be fine once you find out what bad habits she developed.

Good Luck.

[rreichert]

Thanks for the advice!

[tailcrackin]

Hey Rob, what I would do and do, on a new dog that comes here, set a bird or two up, take and try and check cord the dog to the area of the bird, drop the check cord and watch his /her response. If they stick the bird or try....good that will come. let them chase, watch the desire on the run, or at the catch, this will overlay the gun. And if so and so says the dog is good with the gun, you check yourself, sometimes they are pulling your leg. This is an easy way to check, after 4 - 6birds, better to be safe than sorry. Dont panic becauseI say to chase, tell dad torelax, Reason being, I am going to assume you guys dont know much about the dog, and or maybe prior owners, this way you see the desire, what you have to work with......you will have a harder time to steady if the desire is low, the yardwork, doesnt mean diddly when your dog really dont want to hunt, running and hunting are two different things. So lets get a for sure on the desire, then build from there. You can pm me, or phone, whatever ya want, doors always open. I was born and raised in Peoria, gonna assume you more southern, prolly springfield down?? cya Jonesy