RE: English Pointer Puppy.....?
Sunset has given some good advice.I'd like to add a little bit.First like she said the dog should some sort of pointing instinct already.You can test this by tying a wing to a string and the string to the end of a long pole,a ole fishing pole will serve.Flip the wing back and forth in front of the dog.The basic instinct is for them to try and catch it,do your best not to let the dog catch it.Sooner or later the pup will stalk it and then point,dont make it hold the point forever,just a few seconds and flip it again.
Once she has the idea of a point introduce a few birds to her.I start by pulling a few flight feathers off a quail and letting the bird loose on the ground for a bit,then with a checkcord lead the dog to the bird,again dont let the dog catch it.This is sight pointing and not a true test but great way to introduce the dog to birds,its not just seeing it but also getting a snoot full of bird scent,which will lead you to step 2,taking a bird and hiding it some cover for the dog to find by itself using just its nose to find the scent.Let me say that this process does work but takes time,how much time will depend on the natutral ablility of the dog ,so if things progress slowly dont get discouraged.
As far as water work goes ,you'll have to start at the beginning also and first get the dog to enjoy water.Best time to do this is now when water temps are decent.Start in very shallow water and progress.If the dog is timid of the water, go in with her and show her theres nothing to be afraid of and have fun.I'd also like to remind you,this is a pointing breed,not a versatile dog so if indeed you can get her retriveing from water,which you might be able to do,I have done it my dogs,traditional pointing breeds such as Setters and Pointers arent the most graceful swimmers so be patient.Lastly keep in mind that you own a Pointer.Yes it can be trained for water retrieves but its not a lab or versatile dog,a Pointers coat will not protect it from icy and really cold water,so be resonable with your expectations on water work,its not advisable to expect it to retrieve ducks in frigid conditions.Best of luck if I can help further let me know.Take care,Jackson...