Throughout history, dogs have been used as hunting companions for humans. While many of the most popular hunting breeds, such as beagles, bloodhounds, and retrievers, have instincts for the sport, it’s still important to train your dog for hunting. The right dog accessories and training will help ensure a successful first hunt. Below are a few of the top training tips to help you and your pup get started.

3 Dog Training Tips for Hunting

1. Expose Your Dog to Nature

If you want your dog to be comfortable in the wild, you’ll need to expose them to nature. Take your pup with you on long hikes or walks through forests and parks, so they can become more familiar with these surroundings. The exercise will also condition them to maintain high levels of energy on hunting trips.

2. Introduce Decoys

Decoys are designed to help train hunting dogs; they mimic the appearance of birds. However, in the beginning, your dog might mistake these for toys and rip them apart. You need to train them to recognize the differences through a repeated fetching routine. Apply the bird scent to one of the decoys, so your pup knows that they are not the same. 

3. Reward Good Behaviors

When your dog performs desired tasks, whether it’s fetching a decoy in one piece or staying calm on a boat, reward their behavior with a treat. This reinforces wanted behaviors and will improve their hunting skills. Keep it simple in the beginning; reward your dog for basic correct behaviors, such as staying by your side while you hike, and progress by offering treats for increasingly difficult tasks, such as retrieving decoys.

If you’re seeking dog accessories for your next outdoor excursion, turn to the team at Over Under Clothing. This company features a wide variety of products to help you live the ultimate Southern lifestyle, including dress shirts, outerwear, coolers, gun cases, and dog accessories. They also dedicate a portion of all their proceeds to dogs in need and rescue organizations. Call (904) 619-0577 to ask about current inventory, and visit the website to learn more about their full list of dog accessories and menswear.