Dog Training Off the Boat

[mlgorecki]

I recently began training Scout to retrieve from the boat. Wow!!! It involved a little more than I expected. It's a good thing I started this now, because I assumed he would immediately pick up on this. Wrong!!

I have a 14' jon with an Avery Double Duty Dog platform. During the first several retrieves, I had to help him get back into the boat with my hand behind his neck as he climbed up the platform. Additionally, he was banging his feet on the boat-rails and dog platform while recklessly jumpimg off the boat. It was a foot/leg injury waiting to occur. I started out pointing to the platform before sending him after a bumper. I found myself having to do a double-point technique; first at the bumper, second at the platform, then give the command to take off. After about six times out he's now stepping onto the platform before the launch.

Any simialr stories/advice out there??

[Tripp_kilntime_Carraway]

No stories from me, but thanks for the heads up, now I know I need to work on boat work.

[ted b]

Teach him place he will go right to it...On my bigger boat its the fornt deck that way she's out of the way and able to go when sent...Picutre what you are doing with more birds on the water or even a crippled bird the dog lose contact it had make the dogs entry and exit point same place as it sit no confusion but at least you where smart to go out and try know then later also along sleved rubber glove helps because they will forget and you will still have to help them aboard...have fun