Books & DVDs for Gun Dog Training and Field Guides
Hunting Dog Training Books, DVDs & Field Guides
Good equipment only gets a dog so far — at some point the training plan itself has to be sound. Whether you're starting a pup on birds for the first time, working through steadiness problems with a dog that's been hunting a few seasons, or preparing seriously for a hunt test or field trial, a solid reference keeps your standards consistent and your timing honest. Hunting dog training books give you a system you can mark up, revisit between sessions, and bring to the tailgate when something isn't clicking. Training DVDs and electronic media show mechanics — how experienced handlers read a dog, set up a drill, and apply pressure with the right timing — in a way that's hard to get from the page alone. If you're not sure which resource fits where your dog is in training right now, we're happy to point you in the right direction. Call 800-338-3647.
Choose the right format and training focus
Gun dog training books work well when you want a step-by-step plan you can reread and bring to the tailgate or the training table. Gun dog training DVDs are useful when you need to watch mechanics—how a handler sets up a drill, reads a dog, and applies pressure with consistent timing. Some content is written for general sporting dog work, while other material targets hunt tests, field trials, or breed testing systems. Match the resource to the stage of training and the rules you run under so your cues and standards stay consistent.
Common questions about training books and DVDs
What’s the difference between gun dog training books and DVDs?
Gun dog training books explain concepts and progression in a format you can study and reference quickly. Gun dog training DVDs show timing, handling posture, and drill setup in real time, which helps when mechanics matter.
Which is better for a new handler: books or DVDs?
Gun dog training DVDs are often easier for a new handler because they demonstrate pace, timing, and leash or collar handling. Gun dog training books are valuable for building a plan and understanding why each step matters.
When should I use field trial training books instead of general training material?
Field trial training books fit when you’re preparing for competition standards and need a program that matches that level of control and polish. General training material fits when the goal is steady hunting manners and reliable obedience without trial-level expectations.
Do training DVDs help with steadiness and handling before hunt tests?
Gun dog training DVDs help with steadiness and handling by showing how experienced handlers set up repetitions and enforce standards consistently. Video training resources also make it easier to copy correct timing for corrections and releases.
What are upland hunting field guides used for?
Upland hunting field guides are used to learn bird habits, cover, and practical details that help plan a hunt day. Field guides also help handlers understand where dogs are likely to encounter birds and how to work the wind and terrain.
What are waterfowl hunting field guides used for?
Waterfowl hunting field guides are used to understand species behavior, habitat, and conditions that affect setups and retrieves. Field guides also help handlers anticipate cold-water and marsh situations that influence dog work and safety.