A couple things to try:
Get a freshly killed bird. Tie the bird to a 10' cord and the other end on the end of a 6' or 8' pole (this helps avoid human scent from contaminating the trail). Drag the bird through cover (with the pole on a side away from your body), untie the bird and leave it at the end of the trail. Start your dog out at the beginning of the drag and give him your "hunt 'em up" command. Let your dog follow the trail to find the bird at the end of the trail. Start easy and make it more and more difficult as your dog progresses. You can also use a frozen bird, but if you do, dip the bird in water before dragging the trail. DO NOT let your dog see you drag the trail.

There has been some decent research on a dog's nose (scenting ability) and fatty acids. Go to your local health food store and pick up either "Fish Oil" capsules or "Flax Seed Oil" capsules (either one is a good source of Omega-3). Give your dog one capsule per day.



Edited by - Doc E on 09/03/2002 09:49:21