Good places to introduce new setter pup to birds?

[atfrith]

Hey guys, we're the proud new owners of a now 12 1/2 week old english setter puppy and I would like to start getting him introduced to birds. We've been concentrating on house training, obedience, etc but I would like to start having some fun with birds with him.

I live in longmont and was wondering what SWA's are the best for releasing some live birds in and also where ya'll prefer to buy your birds from? My plan here is really just to get him introduced to live birds.

On that note.I have only shot a pellet gun around him so far (a rather loud pellet gun, but nothing crazy) which doesnt bother him but I have read enough to know that I shouldn't just go firing the 12 guage at the first bird we introduce him to in the field and risk it scaring the be-jesus out of him. Is there a preferred method to start introducing pups to gun fire, at what age, etc?

Sorry if these are very noob-like questions, ive done a bit of research online about all of this but there seems to be soooo many conflicting opinions on pretty much everything involving dog training!

 

[Kismet]

Welcome and congrats on the new pup.

"Search" is your friend. These threads came up "puppy introducing to gun"

http://www.ultimatepheasanthunting.com/forum/search.php?searchid=381292

But basically, don't fret about it. Start with the pup doing something, like chasing after a toy or ball and fire a cap gun, or .22 short if you can. Make no fuss whatsoever, except to praise the toy-capture.

Do it away from the pup...the idea being that it is just a noise and not a threat.

It is going to be sooo much fun, I envy you.

Oh, and on the many opinions, this is not an exact science. Many things work. Just remember, the puppy's world is all about fun; yours too.

 

[fshbyfly]

Valhalla Kennels out in Bennett has a puppy class every Saturday morning. Good opportunity to introduce the pup to birds, and other dogs. Also a good way to gradually introduce him to gunfire, as the young pups get to sit at the edge of the field while the more experienced dogs have birds shot for them.

Cheers :cheers:

Dave

 

[atfrith]

Thanks guys! I was just reading about the Valhalla Kennels puppy class actually, I think we'll do that! I have a 2nd rifle doe tag to fill this weekend but hopefully in the next couple weeks we'll find some time to drive down there.

 

[FredB]

You're at the perfect time to get this little pup on the right track. Those first 6 months are so crucial to developing the little guy to become the dog master he can become. So.... LOTS OF WILD BIRDS! Keep an eye out on some of those public lakes along 119 there. I've seen some pheasants running around on occasion, so if you're out taking him on his morning walk about, might as well see if there are some birds for him to chase in there. Hope that helps a bit.