Dogs can come to the Center at any age and a program developed for them. The best time for a puppy to come to 'Training Camp' however is between 7 to 9 months of age.
The training program as mentioned previously is dependent upon each dog. Martin uses a variety of approaches and equipment as required to achieve the results and maintain a happy working companion. These methods include the very best of both American and British methods of training dogs. All are used with the prime purpose of creating drive and responsiveness.
Following three months Basic Training a dog is expected to -
Walk calmly at heel on and off leash with the minimum of commands
Sit steady while a dummy and birds are thrown.
Sit to shot and remain steady while shots are fired.
Retrieve from water and land on command (up to 75 yards)
Retrieve simple double retrieves and memory retrieves.
Hunt ground to find birds as in upland hunting.
Hunt for a shot bird using his nose and eyes.
Deliver to hand and hold the bird until it is taken from him.
Be responsive to verbal and whistle commands
Be a polite companion in the company of other dogs and people.
Some dogs learn quickly while others take more time. Where a dog can be taken further they will be and some dogs during this time frame will learn the basics of hand signals and directions
