02/01/2024
Good read & great advice!
I get asked often, “what should I do with my new pup until they’re ready to work”.
Haul them everywhere. Socialize them as much as possible. Let them be puppies. You can do basic obedience and get a good handle on them. But don’t overdo it. Make learning fun and not something they dread doing. Teach them to tie. Teach them to wait. Teach them how to walk on a leash and work up to a down. Gauge what they can handle and keep your sessions short. Always end on a good note. Praise them. Praise is huge, some dogs don’t need much while others need more to gain confidence and trust in you as a handler. But don’t overdo it, there is a balance.
Know that each dog matures differently. Some will go to stock much sooner than others. Some much later than others. But, don’t put them in a no win situation. Put them in situations where they always win, you have to build their confidence. If you turn them out on fresh pairs at 6 months old and they get clobbered and don’t want to work again, that’s on you. Give them as much as they can handle and slowly increse as they mature and gain confidence.
If you start your 5 year old in football and put pads on them and turn them loose with the high school kids, they would probably get hurt and never want to play again. Start them in flag football and let them have fun. Then you build from there. It’s the same way with dogs. You’ll know when it’s time to advance them. Working dogs are a long term investment. Be patient.
If you have questions ask. Contact your breeder or trainer. The dog community has tons of wonderful people willing to help and mentor new dog owners. Go to a clinic, go watch a trial, network. Find the right fit for your dog when they’re ready, and have fun with it.
