Question: I have a two-year-old mix breed dog as a pet and I'd like to turn him into a pheasant hunting dog. He chases birds and squirrels in the park and seems to be hunting. What can I do to develop his hunting instincts? He appears to be part Lab and part German Shepard.

Al T., Grand Rapids.

Answer: If the dog appears to be hunting and his interest in game, your chances of hunting him are good. If you are seeing no pointing instincts, proceed to train him as a flusher. Desire for game is one of the main ingredients in determining if a dog will make a good hunting dog. This desire is what helps to carry them through the difficulties of training. I'd first buy some game birds and start releasing them for him to find. Encourage him that this is what you're after. After he is actively seeking the birds and shows good desire, start introducing gunfire at a distance. Good luck. I've seen some very accomplished mutts used for pheasant hunting.

Charlie Linblade

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