An interesting short video showing the difference between experienced Rumer and less experienced Cluedo. Ru is watching the gun. If he moves, there might be a retrieve. Clue is watching EVERYTHING!![]()
When taking a young dog out for his first shoots try and pick a day when you can just do a couple of drives because even if they don't do a lot of hunting or retrieving, the day itself will be exciting and exhausting.
6 days ago ·
Ten months old today. He wouldn't let me take a decent photo of him!
1 week ago ·
Beating yesterday, a bit of light training today. Senior Quincegrove girls Rumer and Secret.
2 weeks ago ·
We've seen a few posts recently asking for advice on choosing a stud dog... here is my advice.![]()
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First find dogs you like. I prefer to have seen the dog in person, but your first screening is likely to be on FB or Champdogs. Stud dog owners should be happy to send you videos or to arrange for you to meet the dog in person.![]()
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You know I'm going to say look for health tests! But be sure what the owner means. I want hips, current eye and gonioscopy certificates, and DNA tests. Elbows are a big bonus. Many stud adverts say a dog is health tested, but this may only mean DNA tests. Check health tests on the Kennel Club website.![]()
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Field trial awards are independent proof that the dog hunts, is steady to shot and fall, and retrieves... but MANY dogs without FT awards also have these attributes. Some FT dogs are super easy to train, others may be beyond the normal shooting person. Ask questions about the dog and what his offspring have been like to train. Make sure you are picking the right dog for your market.![]()
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Weigh up your any weaknesses your bitch has and try to avoid them in the stud dog. Both should be good examples of the breed and free from faults such as gun shyness and hard mouth.![]()
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Check out the COI of the proposed mating using the Kennel Club website and talk to the stud owner about the pedigrees. Experienced stud owners know what works together and what doesn't. Sadly some out there only want to take your money!![]()
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Consider where your stud dog is based. Although you should be prepared to travel for the right dog it is important to factor in travel and accommodation if required. Chilled or frozen semen may be available but you will need assistance with insemination. ![]()
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Stud dog owners should happy to support you and advise on progesterone testing, ultrasound examination, and pre- and postnatal care of your bitch and her puppies. It might also be useful if they have contacts waiting for puppies from their stud dogs.![]()
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Once you have chosen your stud, keep in contact with his owner. It is helpful to let them know when your bitch comes into season so they have an idea when you will need his services. Make sure you understand what the stud fee is, how many matings are covered, when the stud fee is payable, and what the terms are if your bitch doesn't fall pregnant.
3 weeks ago ·