We believe your dog’s natural instincts are something to be celebrated. In this first of a two-part series, we introduce the principles of positive gundog training – what it is, why it matters and how it can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. In part two, we’ll explore practical skills you can develop together to create calm and confident wildlife-aware walks.
Many of today’s gundog or working breeds, like cocker spaniels and labradors, are now family companions, but their instincts still run deep. For many dogs, the urge to sniff, retrieve, chase movement, and work alongside their human is strong. Without an outlet, these traits can show up in ways that feel challenging such as pulling on the lead, poor recall and selective hearing.
Positive gundog training is about channelling those drives in a way that brings calm, connection and control into everyday life. This can be extremely helpful out on walks where distractions and wildlife are abundant. It bridges the gap between heritage and modern living, helping to meet your dog’s needs in a realistic way, build practical skills and create calm, enjoyable shared experiences.
Our newest member of the team, Rusty, is a working line labrador, and they were originally bred to retrieve shot game from land and water. Positive gundog training has really helped Rusty become more confident and engaged with his owner, making walks more enjoyable. Read on to learn more and discover how it can help you build good habits when out on walks.
What is Positive Gundog Training?
This type of training draws inspiration from traditional fieldwork but removes outdated, punitive methods. It is an approach that channels a dog’s natural hunting and retrieving instincts and adapts them for modern dogs and everyday life. Using reward-based methods such as treats, toys or play builds impulse control, focus, steadiness, confidence and a strong bond between you and your four-legged friend.
Rather than telling a dog what not to do, we teach them what to do instead and make those choices rewarding. This creates dogs who are engaged, confident and eager to work cooperatively with their owner. It also gives your dog an appropriate outlet for those instincts, rather than letting them spill over into unwanted behaviours.
Building Engagement Outdoors
For many working breeds (and their mixes), a simple walk can feel overwhelming. The landscape is full of scent, movement and opportunity. Rabbits darting, birds in flight and trails to follow. These things are very exciting for many dogs, and this can lead to them ignoring recall, chasing wildlife or becoming disengaged from us.
Positive gundog training reframes the walk entirely. Instead of the environment competing with you, you become a fun and engaging part of the walk. One of the key elements of this is engagement. This isn’t about constant commands; it’s about building a strong relationship with your dog so that they naturally choose to stay connected to you.
We do this by rewarding natural check-ins, making ourselves relevant and predictable, and using simple games to build attention and responsiveness. It’s about finding the right balance between freedom and guidance, so your dog can explore while still staying safe and engaged with you. The result is a dog who is more reliable off lead, less reactive to distractions, and more settled and confident in their environment.
Supporting wildlife aware walks
Living and walking in rural and coastal environments comes with responsibility. Wildlife disturbance is a real concern, particularly during migratory months, nesting seasons or in sensitive habitats. By developing and channelling our dogs’ instincts in a healthier way, we can support more wildlife aware dog walks and help ensure that everyone can coexist respectfully within these spaces.
For owners, it offers peace of mind knowing you can give your dog freedom while still protecting the environment around you. This type of training isn’t about turning your pet into a working dog. It’s about honouring what they were bred to do and shaping it into something that works for both of you.
Support from qualified professionals
If you’d like to explore positive gundog training further, or feel you’d benefit from some expert guidance, it’s always worth seeking out a qualified, accredited professional. The ABTC register is a great place to start your search for trusted trainers near you, and you may even find some offering relaxed, positive gundog classes.
We love Maher and Hound Dog Training and Behaviour, who provide expert training and support for gundogs and working breeds across the world. The Gundog Trainers Academy is another fantastic resource for finding experienced trainers who specialise in positive, ethical gundog training methods.
For dogs who may need more tailored behavioural support, the APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors) is also a wonderful network of highly qualified professionals who can help you better understand and support your dog.
Keep an eye out for part two coming soon
In the meantime you can check out our training tips page which is full of guides to help with wildlife friendly walks
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Looking for more? Explore our other blogs and discover more training tips, insights and inspiration.
