What size of dummy is best to start gundog training?

GUNDOG TRAINING
Peter Blatch
A standard sized dummy weighs about 1.1/2lb and is too heavy for a puppy until it?s five or six months old.

Until then you are better served using lighter, softer, objects for it to carry – and one of the best things is a tennis ball.

Covering it with rabbit skin makes it irresistible and it can also be rolled along the ground which encourages the youngster to hunt and follow a scent line.

Good as it is, don?t rely totally on the tennis ball ? you need to keep a puppy keen and interested at all times so buy a selection of small dummies and keep ringing the changes during its training sessions.