Question: I have a fourteen-month-old Lab that I would like to grouse hunt with. Although he is very energetic and loves to chase birds in the backyard, he doesn't seem to be very interested in hunting for birds when we are out. I have taken him hunting on three occasions and flushed only four birds, none of which he saw. When we are out hunting, he will run around for about the first forty-five minutes, then just run next to me. How can I get him more interested in birds?

Sam R., Holt.

Answer: How about showing him more birds? Animals learn by experience. From the sounds of it, you have done very little training and none with birds. Either go to a preserve or buy some birds and release them for your dog to hunt. You should do this several times before you evaluate your dog's desire to hunt.

Charlie Linblade

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