12 Nebraskaland • June 2022
IN THE FIELD
An out-of-shape dog can lead to physical problems and anxiety during the hunting season. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Keeping your hunting dog in shape
during the summer can be challenging,
to say the least. With nothing to hunt,
and kids and family activities getting
in the way, it's easy to neglect your
hunting companion. Unfortunately,
that can lead to frustration when fall
rolls around. An out-of-shape dog
can lead to handling issues as well as
physical problems — all can result in
anxiety, and in some cases, disaster.
Although keeping your dog in
hunting form may seem close to
impossible during the summer, getting
them ready to hunt isn't. Try these
simple suggestions to help keep your
dog physically ready when it counts.
Weight Control
Inactivity can lead to weight gain,
and nothing will slow down your
dog like carrying extra pounds. Since
your dog will be expending fewer
calories this time of year, switch to
maintenance food. Almost all types
of quality dog food have different
activity and calorie formulas. On
average, with a 50-pound dog, you
should avoid anything over 5 pounds
of weight gain during the off season.
Keep Them Steady
After a certain amount of down time,
your hunting dog will often think she's
off the hook. Some just look for reasons
to break the rules, so this is the perfect
time for them to test your patience.
Short, structured training sessions
that reinforce the basic commands can
keep your dog steady when the season
arrives. Continually review sit, stay
and heel while providing distractions.
This can be done in your backyard,
in your living room or in the field. Do
this three times a week throughout
the summer months, and you'll avoid
stressful moments when the bullets
are flying.
Partner With Others
Finding someone to run dogs with
can help hold both you and your dog
accountable. Some of my good friends
have come from the dog circuit, and
the ability to troubleshoot and bounce
ideas off each other is immeasurable.
Find a mentor or companion you can
get together with and work dogs.
Having someone to throw marks and
help with blind placement will not
only save you time, it also pays off
dividends in the long run.
Or, look for a dog training club close
by that you can join. If you run Labs,
the Missouri Valley Hunt Club near
Valley is a good option.
By Todd Mills
ALL-SEASON DOG TRAINING
