[Tarponman]

There are so many Lab mixes and golden mixes that need help. Do you guys think it is possible to get a lab mix or Golden Mix puppy and train it to be a good waterfowl dog?

 

[Swamp Puppy]

i don't see why not.

i would try to get one that has a lab's coat though. i've seen some lab mixes that had all the tools and training, but as soon as they got wet and cold they shut down.

 

[gsphunter]

If you get an older dog, it usually is harder and a longer process to train because the dog is not as easily influenced. It would be great to rescue a dog though.

 

[98ramtough]

The dog you see to my left was rescued from a humain Society shelter. I have had him for a year and a half, and it was absolute hell for the first six months trying to train him. He is a hell of a dog now, well mannered and a duck hunting machine. He retrieved well over 200 ducks.

If you find a young lab at a shelter and you really will put the extra time in to train them it is possible. I never sway people away from adopting. I am impressed you would ask.

Mike

 

[Tarponman]

I just figure there are so many lab or golden mixes that need a home if i got a young puppy that seemed healthy and sent it to a good trainer, showed it some love could turn out to be a great hunter. Plus when you resuce a dog they know they owe you so usually a good pet.

Pure breed from a good breeder would be easier though. Hate to see so many dogs that have potential that figure it is worth a try

 

[98ramtough]

Tarponman- No one is really trying to talk you out of it. If it is what you want to do, go do it. I did it, it worked great for me. I am thankful everyday I made that descision to not let my boy get destroyed at a shelter.

Look around at petfinder.com for a young 2 year old or younger Lab/Chessie/Golden etc. When you meet this dog at the pound you want to make sure #1 that the dog looks and feels healthy. Runs with ease etc. Make sure the dog is eager to retrieve or eager to please you. You might see if he is scared of a shotgun (the look of a gun) and see if he is scared of a capgun.

If he passes that test any good trainer can make him into a good hunter for you.

 

[Tarponman]

Thanks for all the info. I was just trying to convince myself! I realize no one is trying to convince me into anything and are just trying to help which I greatly appreciate.

 

[SCoutdoorsman]

Of course :thumbsup:

 

[shrpshtr]

i agree with 98 about rescuing. there are plenty of great dogs out there that need good homes and can be great hunting companions. the only thing a good bloodline gets you is a "chance" at a good dog. it doesn't guarantee anything.

 

[Swamp Puppy]

hey...worst case scenario is you end up with one heck of a lovable friend and you go out and get another dog to do the hunting. not a bad deal. lol.

 

[Wingshooter]

I was reading the local paper and saw some dogs up for adoption, one of them a 3yr old German wire haired Pointer , used for "hunting". and family had to leave country. I was asked if it was going to be used for hunting I sensed a bit of bunny hugger in the adoption ladies voice and decided to decline my true answer, i said "no" she said "GOOD". (I knew it ). Gonna go see him on Monday with my boy (JAKE GSP) to see if they get along í m very excited ,but my wife is not. :help: I hope it works out keep you posted. :hammering:

 

[gsphunter]

Oh well ***********. If the wife gets too mad you have a couple dogs to sleep with now!