Tips from the Pros ~ 22 – 31

Tip #22: “When handling, never be distracted and take your mind off your dog, not even for a few seconds… your dog knows if you are distracted. Unexpected things can happen if your mind is not on your dog. Stay Alert!”

— Mike Husenits

Tip #23: “Try and gain a little training in each workout. Have a mental image of what you want your dog to look like as a finished contender. Slow progress is much better than the magic wand or microwave instant results. Too much, too fast will cause problems. Trust the process and enjoy the journey, have fun.”

— Mo Lindley

Tip #24: “Consistency is key. Don’t ever give your dog a command that you can’t fairly enforce.  Highly distracting situations (like the family bbq, a party with your friends, etc.) are not the time to show off how much your dog knows or how well trained she/he is. Always be trying to help your dog.”

— Kim Sampson

Tip #25: “Prior to your brace, check all your equipment. Is your gun loaded? Is there water in your canteen? If you don’t own a horse, be sure one will be available. Above all, line someone up to scout for you.

These are elementary items, for sure. But over and over, I’ve seen handlers go the line without a whistle, gun, or whatever. The effect, of course, is to hold up the trial — about as grievous a sin as one can commit on a day when every minute between daylight and dark is needed to run the required number of braces.”

— Mike Seminatore

Tip #26: “When your dog is in a backing situation and the other handler states that he/she intends to move their dog, always insist that you wish to collar your dog before they move theirs. There’s far less of a chance of a breach of manners when handled this way. It also reinforces your dog’s good backing manners.”

— Lynn Heard

Tip #27: “Flush your bird(s) from in front of your dog and shoot your gun. The sequence simulates a hunting situation where you would shoot upon the flight of game birds. When you begin competing in stakes where dogs must be broke, a delayed shot could indicate to judges a lack of confidence in your dog’s manners around game and could loose them a placement.” 

— Tony Bly

Tip #28: “Before you flush, look at your dog…he or she will tell you where to start. Always flush in the direction away from your dog.”

— Jamie Daniels

Tip #29: “Remember a field trial is a show as well as a competition. Know when to hold on to and when to send your dog according to the course you are running on. Always show enthusiasm and confidence in your dog.” 

— Mark McLean

Tip #30: “Be confident. Not only does your dog feed off your confidence, the judges do as well.”

— Luke Eisenhart

Tip #31: “Ride every brace and pay attention to the dogs and handlers. I did!”

— Harold Ray