Gun shyness is very preventable and is usually very hard to fix. Properly introducing a dog to loud noises is an important part of bringing your setter along as a gun dog. Two pieces of shortened 2x4 lumber are a great way to start this process. Bang the wooden blocks together when your pup is eating or doing something else exciting and enjoyable, and watch for any sign of a negative reaction. Take your time and gradually work up to louder noises with the blocks, either by banging them harder, closer to the pup, or both. If the pup shows any signs of being frightened, back off and tone down your approach and after some time start again at a softer level.

Lesson Design

A lesson should be planned to produce a behavior that can be rewarded. There should be no more punishment than is needed to produce a rewardable behavior. If a lesson does not produce a rewardable behavior, DO NOT BLAME THE DOG. Instead, rethink your lesson design.

In working with your dog, remember that positive repetition is better than continuous punishment, and that all lessons should end on a positive, fun note. Lastly, only introduce one new item per each developmental or training lesson. New concepts and lessons can get lost when both you and your dog are trying to do too many things at once.

Introduction to Loud Noises

Gun shyness is preventable and is typically difficult to fix. Properly introducing a dog to loud noises is an important part of bringing your setter along as a gun dog. Two pieces of shortened 2x4 lumber are a great way to start this process. Bang the wooden blocks together when your pup is eating or doing something else exciting and enjoyable, and watch for any sign of a negative reaction.

Take your time and gradually work up to louder noises with the blocks, either by banging them harder, closer to the pup, or both. If the pup shows any signs of being frightened, back off and tone down your approach and after some time start again at a softer level. If you’re unsure of how things are progressing or of whether or not a given approach will work, give us a call and let us help walk you through the process.