I recently picked up 10 week old black lab. Would appreciate any info on the best way to make sure he doesn't get gun shy. Hasn't been exposed to any shots yet. Thanks.

Edited by - fishface on 12/30/2002 22:19:50

I would start with making a little noise as you play with the pup. I like to clap my hands together to get there attention. Or when I throw something for them to retrieve I clap my hands as a freind tosses the dummy. I then work my way up to a .22 at some distance while I am playing with the pup, I will have a freind fire blanks for 100yds. I then work closer a little at a time. I watch the pup to see if it is showing any signs of concern. I then start using a 12 guage at 100yds.
If I have some pigeons, I let the dogs retrieve them or chase them while a freind fires the bigger gun. The most important thing is to watch there body language. If they are stressing back off. I am sure others have another method, but this has always worked for me.


Use a Big Lead to shoot them
were they aint.

Big Lead, I thank you for your advice and will work him up to a shotgun.

Try getting some training videos from your local library.

I have found that most all videos are not great, however most have some good information on all topics.

Good Luck with the Duck!

ODH, Thanks for your advice, will check it out. Tired of taking my shotgun for a walk through the wood's