What tools do I need to train? Part II

In my previous post, I spoke about wants and needs and did comparisons with regard to releasing birds with kick cages, manual launchers and remote launchers.  I didn’t delve into other tools too much.

Here’s a list of the nuts and bolts, essential dog training tools, no matter whose method you use.

1. A well bred dog from hunting lines (not a tool but essential to start with!)
2. A tie out.  Preferably a chain gang.  See my article title “8 weeks to 8 months” on my free training tips web page at http://brittanys.com
3. A leash of about 6 feet in length.
4. A check cord of about 20 to 30 feet in length.  A stiff cord that doesn’t wrap about brush so easily when the dog is running with it attached.
5. A tough dog collar that fastens with a metal buckle, not a cheap plastic buckle.
6. At a minimum, a kick cage, preferably a remote launcher from DT Systems (excellent quality).
7. A modern day e-collar with at least 16 levels to prevent e-collar overstepping ™.  See my article about overstepping on my free training tips web page at my site http://brittanys.com/ .  I use one with vibration as well from D.T. systems though I won’t call it a “must”.  It’s a must for me though.
8. A bird bag / box for transportation of birds.  You must have access to birds!
9. A small pen to hold your birds safely away from varmints.  (yes, you can do this in the city!)
10. If using bobwhite quail, an inexpensive recall cage so that you can lessen your losses.
11. Access to pigeons / quail or chukar for starting out your dog.  Use with a remote launcher.
12. A 22 caliber training pistol.  Can be had for as little as 20 dollars.  Its hard to find ‘cheap’ caps.  I use (against manufacturer advisement!) 22 caps for nail guns made by remington, sold at Lowes.  They are about 4.50 a box / 100.  I use the brown loads for pups and the green loads for older dogs.  I accept NO responsiblity if you use them.  It states on the box that is NOT what they are for!
13. A place to train.
14. Complete understanding from A to Z of the method you will use to train your dog.
15. If you have never trained a dog or don’t have a complete understanding, a mentor!

Guess that’s about it.  If you have any questions or feedback about specific equipment or related info, post a comment!

Give your pup a treat for me and tell ‘em “Dave says good dog!”

Dave