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Another Way to Force Fetch

Another Way to Force Fetch

Duck dogs must fetch on command and hold the duck for delivery to hand. While these fundamentals are largely instinctive in well-bred dogs, they must be honed through training. A popular technique is “force-fetch,” which involves harsh negative reinforcement until the desired result is achieved. However, this method can be misapplied and have lasting consequences for meek dogs. An alternative method, known as “forceless fetch,” begins when the dog is a pup and is continually revisited into adulthood. This method teaches the dog to hold and fetch through conditioning, not force.

The forceless fetch method starts when the pup is three months old and is taught to hold a leather gardening glove. Later, the pup is taught to fetch the glove on command. When the pup is around four months old, the “Traffic Cop” drill is introduced, where the dog is commanded to sit and retrieve a bumper while the trainer positions themselves between the dog and the bumper to maintain control. If the dog repeatedly spits out the bumper, the “hold” command may need to be revisited.

While force-fetch is widely considered a standard step in any retriever program, the downside to old-school force breaking is that it can have lasting consequences for meek dogs and is not pleasant for trainers. The forceless fetch method is an alternative that teaches the dog to hold and fetch through conditioning, not force.

Northern Illinois Hunting Dog Training – Bull Valley Retrievers

Northern Illinois Hunting Dog Training – Bull Valley Retrievers

Weather it’s Upland Training or Waterfowl Training – Trust Northern Illinois Hunting Dog Training at Bull Valley Retrievers

Hunting Dog Training at Bull Valley Retrievers has been in full speed for over 20 years. Their Northern Illinois Hunting dog training programs are tailored to fit just about any schedule or budget, while providing successful results! Keeping in mind that all dogs are not created equal, BVR will provide a program that will give your dog the highest chance of success at being the best he can be!

One on One Sessions

One on One sessions are designed to teach you and your dog the steps needed to progress. These sessions are approximately one hour and are held either weekly or bi-weekly at the handlers and trainers agreed upon session schedule. The number of sessions is dependent on how much the handler puts into working with the dog and the level of training the handler is expecting out of the dog.  

 Board and Train

This is a program that BVR will do the training. Typically an entry level, started hunting dog program will last 4 months and consists of the following:

  • Obedience / Manners
  • Conditioned Retrieve / Force Fetch
  • Collar conditioning
  • Intro to Gun Fire
  • Steady
  • Deliver to hand
  • Singles – maybe doubles on Land and Water

 

If it’s one on one training for your Hunting Dog Training or if you prefer a Board and Train option, contact Bull Valley Retrievers for complete information and availability. It is highly recommended that you book One on One Training a couple weeks in advance and Board and Train should be reserved several months in advance. As a limited number of dogs are accepted for Board and Train and spots fill very quickly.

Hunter Dunbar – Outdoor Writer