Gundogs
Gundogs buying guides
Dog training for dummies
Whatever stage in their training your dog has reached, one - or more - of these great dummies will add fun and realism to your programme
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It can often be impractical, messy or smelly to train your dog with real game. And many dogs may take some convincing that they want strange-smelling feathers or fur in their mouth to start with. So to get dogs retrieving consistently, practice with a dummy from an early age is essential. This selection offers something for every size and age of dog, and even something for the initially reticent would-be retriever.
Original Clone woodpigeon dummy bundle
All of Dog & Field’s latest range feature high-definition photographic canvas print from real gamebird feather patterns. The feathered marking on the dummies allows your dog to practise recognition for the types of gamebirds they may be retrieving in the field. The range fits all launchers and has been designed to reduce recoil while maintaining distance. The Clone Woodpigeon product bundle includes a 1lb pigeon dummy, a ½lb pigeon dummy, a pigeon dummy ball and a pigeon dead bird dummy.
RRP £45
Mystique Rabbit dog dummy
The unique filling and durable material help the dog easily grab and hold it. An integral throwing rope assists users in throwing the dummy, which can be scented for added realism. It’s available in small (700g) and large (1,300g) sizes, with or without a fur cover. It is advised to build the dog’s confidence with the smaller dummy before moving on to the larger one.
RRP £25
Flight Mallard Dead Bird Pro dummy
Part of the Sporting Saint Flight range, the Mallard Pro includes large wings, a short tail, swinging head, realistic feet and beak – all of which make it one of the most lifelike dummies on the market. Weighing approximately 700g, it is buoyant in water and has an attached throwing chord. Sporting Saint says this range accurately simulates picking up a shot bird.
RRP £39.95
Firedog Line training dummy
Used by England IGL retriever captain David Latham, this product offers excellent value and durability. The bottom of the product is navy blue – a colour dogs pick out easily – with a high-contrast white upper half, giving the dog something to focus on. It is available in a 500g size or a 250g offering, which is perfect for puppy training right from the start. Entirely made of sturdy canvas, so it can also be used in water.
RRP £7.99
Field & Fireside Reluctant Retriever dummy
The Field & Fireside Reluctant Retriever is a canvas training aid with a waterproof inner filled with wood shavings. Aimed at dogs that need some encouragement to pick up a dummy, the Reluctant Retriever has the look and feel of traditional canvas dummies but features a small pocket large enough to fit small treats, closing with a Velcro fastening. It weighs only 120g, so it can be used by dogs of any size.
RRP £11.99
