Can my dog hunt and still be a family pet?

A dog bred to work does not turn into a stranger at home. What helps is clear rules about when it is working and when it is relaxing, and training that teaches both.

Two modes, one dog

A well-trained retriever learns that the line, the blind or the field means work and the living room means rest. Skills such as line manners and steadiness help in both settings, because they teach the dog to wait for a cue.

Richard's philosophy is balance: encourage the hunting drive and desire, and add the team player attitude that makes an exceptional hunting partner. That attitude carries into the house.

What owners can do

The calm dog in the duck blind guide shows how calm is trained, not just hoped for.

• Give daily exercise so the dog settles indoors
• Keep cues consistent between family members
• Use the same release word for work and play
• Save retrieving games for set times

Talk to Richard about your home

Tell him about kids, other pets and how often you hunt. He can suggest a plan that fits a pet that hunts as easily as a dog with competition goals.