First Season Expectations For A Gundog

Written By: Zach Miller

“One of the most exciting and nerve wracking moments for a duck hunter is that very first hunt with your new pup. Did I do everything right? Is he/she truly ready? and what-if type questions fill your head. I constantly tell folks that if your dog is ready, they will show you, if you have any doubt in your mind about performance… they are not ready. When you get into the hunt, you should have the utmost confidence that this dog will perform, if you have done the proper training and mimic the hunt as closely as possible, you will never have to ask yourself those questions again!”

Bringing a new duck dog into your life is an exciting adventure, especially when it comes to their first hunting season. As a proud owner, you may be wondering what to expect from your furry companion during this thrilling time. While every dog is unique, here are some general insights into what you can anticipate during your duck dog's inaugural hunting season.

1. Learning the Ropes:

        Your dog's first hunting season is a learning experience for both of you. While you may have spent countless hours training and preparing, the real-life hunting environment can present new challenges. Your dog will need to adapt to the sights, sounds, and smells of the hunting grounds. They may encounter distractions, such as other animals or unfamiliar terrain. Be patient as they navigate these new experiences and provide guidance when needed. The idea behind mastering this is exposing your dog to everything and anything they might encounter during a hunt. Far too often I hear owners say, “This will be the first time they’ve heard gunfire…” This should instantly be a red flag for the reader, all audible and visual and tactile exposure should be completed prior to hunting. 

2. Developing Confidence:

            Confidence is key for a successful gundog. During their first hunting season, your dog will gradually build confidence in their abilities. They will learn to trust their training and instincts, becoming more comfortable with retrieving downed birds and navigating bodies of water. As the season progresses, you'll likely notice a boost in their confidence and enthusiasm for the hunt. This should never be discouraged as confidence takes a long time to build but can be ruined in a heartbeat! 

3. Exposure to Real-Life Hunting Situations:

            No amount of training can fully replicate the actual hunting experience. Your dog will encounter real ducks, unpredictable flight patterns, and varying weather conditions. They will learn to differentiate between decoys and live birds, honing their ability to mark and retrieve downed ducks. Expect your dog to become more adept at reading the environment and making split-second decisions as the season unfolds. This is where a lot of owners will cave in. The weather will get ugly and they see a dog shivering or slightly uncomfortable and they will put them up for the hunt. We are teaching the dog that when times get tough, mom or dad will save you everytime. This will as a result build a bad behavior and confidence will be lost. You will notice the dog will become more and more dependent on YOU coming to save the day. Steer clear of doing this and let the dog grow up and build confidence through weathering the storms they encounter.

4. Building Stamina and Endurance:

            Hunting can be physically demanding for both dogs and humans. Your dog's stamina and endurance will improve throughout the season as they become accustomed to the rigors of the hunt. Initially, they may tire more quickly, but with each outing, their endurance will increase. Ensure you provide adequate rest, hydration, and nutrition to support their physical well-being. Pre and Post-hunt maintenance is key, remember, your focus is on the dog, not dropping birds (if you’re with a group). “Airing” your dog before working is critical and is often forgotten due to poor timing on the owner's part. Do not let the rush of trying to get to the blind hinder the dog’s prep before. The last thing we want is the dog squatting down to use the bathroom and losing the line of the bird.

5. Bonding and Partnership:

            The first hunting season is an opportunity for you and your dog to strengthen your bond and develop a true partnership. As you work together in the field, you'll learn to communicate effectively and anticipate each other's actions. Your dog will become attuned to your cues and signals, making for a seamless hunting experience. The trust and connection you build during this season will lay the foundation for many successful hunts to come. This is teambuilding at its core and everything you do or don’t do will affect this bond. Your dog will want to look to you for everything, remember to let them weather the storm at times!

"Got 'Em Dad" By: R.J. McDonald

6. Continued Learning and Improvement:

            Remember that your dog's first hunting season is just the beginning of their journey as a skilled hunting companion. Each outing provides an opportunity for growth and improvement. Observe your dog's strengths and areas for development, and adjust your training accordingly. With time and experience, your dog will become more proficient, making each hunting season even more rewarding. If and when you encounter hiccups during the hunt or something that needs fixing, FIX IT. This is what separates the boys from the men. Everyone wants to come home from a hunt and crack that first beer, if your dog messes up, you should take that personally. As insane as that sounds, greatness comes from those who obsess in their craft. I have had many moments where the dog will make a hiccup on a hunt, I will jot it down in my phone and we will work it out after we get back to the house, demand greatness from your dogs and hold yourself to a higher standard. 

7. Unpredictability:

            While you may have high expectations for your dog's performance, it's important to remember that hunting can be unpredictable. Factors such as weather conditions, bird behavior, and other external variables can impact the outcome of a hunt. Be prepared for both successful and challenging days in the field. Embrace the unpredictability and focus on enjoying the experience with your loyal companion. When it comes down to it, you can train for everything under God’s sun, but you may have something completely off-the-wall occur and it comes down to your dog and how they react. I typically do not come down hard on myself for the unpredictable moments, it's how we learn and grow.

In conclusion, your duck dog's first hunting season is a time of growth, learning, and bonding. Expect a mix of successes and challenges as your dog navigates the real-life hunting environment. Embrace the journey, celebrate the milestones, and cherish the memories created during this special season. Together, you and your gundog will embark on countless adventures in the years to come.