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Title: Using a pen for training Post by: KevinN on February 29, 2012, 08:51:34 pm This is how I like to do it - to each his own.
Let's cover hunting dogs first since this is a hunters forum. 1. Start early - 12 weeks is when I start. Very, Very important - Always use a soft hog. If pup gets in a train wreck at an early age it can set you way back. Give them 2 minutes, if they are not interested take them out and try again next week. 2. If they are not showing interest there are a few tricks you can try. A. If you have a started dog, put them in the pen. The pups should follow suite. If the started dog catches dont break them off right away, a squealing pig will also get pups excited. After you break the started dog off put them on a lead and let them bay on lead. If it doesn't work within a couple minutes it's not going to, take pup out of pen and try again next week. B. If you don't have a started dog find a mentor, in the mean time start workin your pups. Make the pig move, if this doesn't peak interest catch him and make him squeal. If pup is not showing interest within a couple minutes take pup out of pen and try again next week. 3. Give pup a session once a week. They WILL turn on sooner or later. Just like obedience training, keep sessions short. The pup should not want to leave the pen when you take him out. 4. Keep working pups once a week until they are bangin away at the pig. You can then back off the pen and start working mock hunts. Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: Reuben on February 29, 2012, 09:28:38 pm excellent post there Mr. Kevin...I like... :)
Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: East tx hog hunter on February 29, 2012, 09:29:32 pm Very good advise, I've heard a many of people say the same thing!
Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: KevinN on March 01, 2012, 11:35:44 am I didn't mention the size of pen. It should be large enough that pup can escape trouble. I wouldnt suggest anything smaller than 30 by 30. Personally I like 60X60 myself. That way you can continue to work dogs later on rank Board.
Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: Reuben on March 01, 2012, 11:53:29 am I like at least oblong...30x70 with the ends rounded...30 wide to save money and 70 or longer... so the pups or young dog can learn how to stop a runner...
Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: KevinN on March 01, 2012, 11:58:59 am Great Minds Reuben! J.k. That is a perfect reason for bigger. Stopping the runners.
Title: Re: Using a pen for training Post by: Reuben on March 01, 2012, 09:47:44 pm I like your signature at the bottom... :)we could solve the world's problems...J.K. but you are doing your part on keeping it interesting on here... 8)
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