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Our next progression addresses the concept of handling on
water. Locate a spot on the pond that is thirty yards from the
opposite bank and at least eighty yards in width from bank to
bank. Set one white dummy out at the back pile along with several
colored ones as well. Drill your dog to take the line and retrieve
the dummies at the back pile. Once this is learned you can add
one floating white dummy blind at first base. Send your spaniel
back to second base. Stop them half way and handle them with
a right hand over to the floating blind.
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Some dogs will tread water naturally others
will slow down but start to swim in your direction. Don't be
concerned if your dog swims: he will pick up the art of treading
water fairly easily. Our final goal is run this drill with all
colored dummies set out. This also is a good time to teach your
dog to enter water on the back command from a remote position
in front of you. This will help them to understand a re-entry
into another body of water. Use all white dummies at the back
pile when teaching this remote back entry. Once again, if you
get a refusal to go, simply throw a dummy over the top of him
to encourage the confident water entry.
Next month we will get into advance water blind training. Until
then enjoy the water. This is my favorite part of dog training!
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About the Author: David Krassler is a native New Englander,
who resides in the Berkshire Mountain Range of western Massachusetts.
David and his wife Marcia have owned operated Citari Kennel since
1985. Together David and Marcia offer clients an impressive 35
years of professional breeding and training experience. As a
professional trainer, active seminarist, and a member of the
New England Outdoor Writers Association David consistently strives
to take the mystery out of the training and breeding top performing
field dogs. For more information on Citari Kennel visit www.citarikennel.com.
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