Hello everyone,

I searched a bit and tried to scroll through some topics, but didn't see what I was looking for. I know it's there, just didn't see it.

I had the chance to go bird hunting several times with friends last year. Turns out I'm throughly hooked!! Watching those dogs work was like.... well you all know what it's like.

So, I put a deposit on an English Setter pup. She'll be ready in a couple of weeks and I wanted to read up on training. I'm not worried about trying my had at training. I've always had dogs and trained them without any problem. I understand personalities and know how to watch for signs of problems or distress. However, I don't know much about the bird dog side. I'm ok with whoa, come, heel, but REALLY nervous about a gun shy dog, or warping it somehow.

After all that, I come to my question. I want to read up on all this. Any suggestions? Internet sites or books either one is fine. Even different theories and styles are welcome so I can understand all sides and techniques. The whole thing is a bit of a mystery. Only thing I equate it to is a sheltie I once had that just knew how to herd. Was the crazies thing watching a pup of 6months herding chickens... It just knew what to do. So I'm guessing my bird dog will be the same way. I just don't want to be the one that messes those instincts up.

Thanks,
Christopher