Training an 11-month-old springer spaniel bitch

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Is it too late to train an 11 month old spaniel?

If your dog has been over-socialised, it may be as bold as brass and chase everything in sight.

By Paul Rawlings

Friday, 30 May 2008

Can a 11-month-old springer spaniel bitch, that has received no training, be trained to full hunting level?

I am thinking of buying an 11-month-old springer spaniel bitch from an elderly gentleman whose health has deteriorated so that he is unable to train the youngster. It is untouched and has never even had a lead on it. However, the dog comes from good stock and I wonder if I would be able to train her to full hunting level?

PAUL RAWLINGS says:
I am absolutely positive that the bitch can be fully trained, even at this age.

How you should go about the task depends on its previous management. I once took on a 14-month-old springer that had lived all its early life in a remote kennel with only the occasional run out with older dogs.

She was not at all socialised with people or used to any other environment, but once she gained confidence I was able to start the basics, just as one would with a six-month-old puppy.

However, if your dog has been over-socialised, it may be as bold as brass and chase everything in sight.

Treat it as though it is a puppy, but do not allow any more freedom in the open until it is fully obedient and answers the recall whistle perfectly in a confined area, field or rabbit pen.

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Comments

aaron temperton

Wed, 17th Feb 2010 14:55:20

I have a 12 month old springer ,when i take him for a walk he does what he is told and walks well on the lead.but when my wife takes him he is like anothere dog,he pulls on the lead ,he trys to lay down if he does not want to move .Could you please help .thank you ,MR AARON TEMPERTON.

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