Training Supplies for Hunting Dogs
There are several training stages and supplies needed when training your dog, and our Hunting Experts have first-hand experience and product knowledge to help you make the most of each training session. With these must-have dog training supplies and tips for training, you and your pup will be ready for the next upland or waterfowl hunt.
Must-Have Hunting Dog Training Supplies
Throughout every training stage, there are three must-have training supplies for hunting dogs: transitional lead leash, dummy launcher, and check cord.
- Transitional Lead Leash: This is essential when training your dog to stay next to you on the hunt. With this leash, you’re able to train your pup not to pull and control their excitement.
- Dummy Launcher: This training supply is designed to teach your dog to look for a falling bird when hearing a gunshot.
- Check Cord: With a check cord, you’re able to train your pup to retrieve and come on command without getting too far away.
Early Stages of Hunting Dog Training Gear
During the early stages of training, the main goal is to introduce your puppy to all the elements of the hunt—listening, loud noises, and retrieving a bird. Here are the tools our Hunting Experts recommend:
- Clicker Tools: This is an effective way to train obedience with a young pup. When training commands and listening, pairing the clicker with a tasty treat will make the transition to the field commands even easier.
- Traditions Blank Pistol: Using a blank pistol will help your puppy get used to loud gunshot noises to avoid anxiousness.
- Pheasant Wing: When training your pup to retrieve a bird, this will help them know the look and feel of a game bird.
Scent Training Gear for Dogs
Once your pup understands the basics of the hunt, it’s time to start scent training. This means teaching your hunting dog how to track down a bird and what to look for.
- Training Scents: With a variety of different scents, you can rub this on dummies and other training supplies so that your dog knows what to sniff for when retrieving birds.
- Training Dummies: We recommend having a variety of different types of training dummies available so your pup can practice retrieving birds of different sizes.
- Training Whistle: This is a must-have when training your pup to come back once retrieving a dummy.
- Training Kits: With a training kit, you’ll get a dummy, scent, and whistle included so you’re able to quickly get to training your hunting companion!
Expert Tip | In this stage, the check cord is great to tie onto the training dummy to drag across the ground. This helps your dog practice tracking and sniffing for bird scent on the move.
Command Training Supplies
Along with scent training, hunters need to teach commands so that their hunting dog is disciplined and obedient during the hunt. Using a dog training collar from trusted brands like Garmin, Dogtra, and SportDOG is a common way for hunters to communicate with their loyal companions. Through static stimulation, your pup will learn to obey your commands and remain obedient throughout the hunt. Pairing the electronic collar with a dog whistle will have your hunting dog dialed into responding to the hunter, no matter the distance.
Featured Expert Advice: Best Dog Training Collars >
Hunting Dog Field Supplies
When in the field on your hunt, it’s important to make sure your pup has the essentials to keep him safe and hydrated. Our Hunting Experts recommend these top picks:
- Dog Hunting Vest: Featuring blaze orange and made from abrasion-resistant materials, it’s important to get a properly fitting vest for your dog. This keeps them seen and protected.
- Traveling Dish: With a traveling dog dish, you’ll be able to keep your pup well-fed and hydrated.
- Kennel: A Ruff Land Kennel is a popular option to keep your pup safe on the way to and from the field.
- Kennel Pad: Adding a kneel pad when transporting your pup will keep them comfortable.
With the right training supplies, you and your hunting dog will be well on your way to a successful upland or waterfowl season. By mastering the fundamentals of obedience, retrieving, and scent work, you'll build a strong bond with your hunting companion and set them up for excellence in the field. If you have additional questions about preparing for the upcoming hunt, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Hunting Expert.
