How to Have the Best Trained Gun Dog by Joan Bailey
In this new book author Joan Bailey shows the gun dog owner how to train his dog to be a never-fail retriever; to be steady to wing and shot, and to be steady at the blind. She successfully uses the scientific knowledge of canine behavior and training techniques that have worked for decades, both here and in Europe.
For gun dog owners who don't like the "ear-pinching" way, or the use of electronics to "whoa" their dog, Bailey has an alternative. In a precise step-by-step method, Bailey promises that you will have a fully trained gun dog in 3 to 4 months.
Bailey, identified as "one of America's great dog people" by Outdoor Life hunting dog editor Larry Mueller, has spent most of her life enjoying the sport of upland bird and waterfowl hunting. Bailey was a field judge with NAVHDA, WPGCA, and the KDK for over 25 years. She was editor of The Gun Dog Supreme for 26 years and received 13 awards from the Dog Writers Association of America.
The method translates decades of canine behavior science into practical routines that align with field training realities. Owners can expect step-by-step progressions that mirror real-world hunts, field trials, and season-long work. The guidance emphasizes safety and humane handling, with emphasis on steady behavior at wing and shot and at the blind. Practical care includes consistent training sessions, note-taking, and adapting routines to breed-specific needs. The book's plan covers both upland retrieves and waterfowl work, with emphasis on reliable retrieves under field conditions. It presents an alternative to tools that rely on force, focusing on timing, reinforcement, and clear cues. For those preparing for season-specific tasks, the method offers a phased cadence that supports steady advancement without overloading a dog. Applied properly, the plan supports reliable field performance across upland and waterfowl tasks.
How to Have the Best Trained Gun Dog by Joan Bailey Q&A
What training outcomes does the book emphasize?
It aims to produce a finished gun dog that is a reliable retriever and steady to wing and shot, and at the blind.
What training methods does it propose instead of ear-pinching or electronics?
It offers a humane, step-by-step method that does not rely on ear-pinching or electronic tools.
How long does it take to reach a fully trained dog according to the book?
The author promises a fully trained gun dog in 3 to 4 months.
What sources of knowledge does the book draw from?
It applies canine behavior science and long-standing training techniques used here and in Europe.
Is the training approach applicable to upland and waterfowl contexts?
Yes, it covers upland hunting and waterfowl work, including steady retrieves and steadiness at the wing and shot.
What is noted about the author’s experience?
She is recognized as a leading figure in the field, with roles as a field judge and editor, and decades of hunting dog involvement.
How do I implement the book's step-by-step method in field training?
Begin with basic cues and gradually build to steadiness at wing, shot, and the blind, following the structured progression outlined.
Item Specifications
| Title | How to Have the Best Trained Gun Dog |
|---|---|
| Author | Joan Bailey |
| Predecessor | "How to Help Gun Dogs Train Themselves" |
| Training Duration | 3 to 4 months |
| Technique | No "ear pinching" or electronics |
| Author's Experience | Field judge, editor, award-winner, hunter |
| Associations | NAVHDA, WPGCA, KDK, Dog Writers Association of America, Outdoor Life hunting dog editor Larry Mueller |
Joan Bailey's Ultimate Guide to Gun Dog Training
Unlock the secrets to nurturing and training a top-tier gun dog with Joan Bailey's expert guidance. With her unique approach and tried-and-true techniques, she promises to deliver exceptional results in just a matter of months. Say goodbye to ear pinching and harsh electronics, and hello to a never-fail retriever that is steady to wing, shot, and blind.
Hailed as 'one of America's great dog people' by Outdoor Life hunting dog editor Larry Mueller, Joan Bailey has dedicated her life to the sport of upland bird and waterfowl hunting. With over 25 years of experience as a field judge for NAVHDA, WPGCA, and the KDK, she has honed her expertise in gun dog training, amassing numerous awards along the way.
Learn from Joan Bailey's scientific understanding of canine behavior and the decades-proven training techniques used in both the US and Europe. Delve into her step-by-step methods and watch your gun dog flourish, becoming the reliable companion any hunter needs.