Kinder, Gentler Force Breaking

By Any Kohly

Gun Dog Editor

As most of us know force breaking is one of the most controversial training methods used today.  By definition force breaking is a way to teach the retrieve using some sort of “stimulus” such as the ear pinch or toe hitch.  While it is my opinion that force breaking should be used only by professional trainers and even then only when really needed, the rest of us non-professionals can still run into retrieving problems or mouth issues.  So does this mean that us amateur trainers have little recourse but visit our local pro trainer?  Maybe not.  There is an alternative form of force breaking that can work yet does not require the years of experience that a pro would have.  What you do need though is an abundance of patience, a training table and a buc or dowel. 

Start off by placing pup on the training table.  Assuming you’re right handed, hold the collar in your right hand and the buc in the left.  Command FETCH, BACK or whatever command you will use as you use the thumb and forefinger of your left hand to open pups mouth and insert the buc.  Now, place your left hand beneath pups bottom jaw to prevent him from dropping the buc.  Make pup hold the buc for a few seconds at first and then command DROP, RELEASE or whatever command you will use to command pup to “let go” of the bird.  As it will invariably happen, anytime pup spits out the buc, pick it up and insert into his mouth again and have him hold it until the release command is given.  You should also gradually increase the length of time pup holds the buc each time he reaches a milestone such as holding the buc for a 30 seconds without you having to hold it in his mouth.  One of the most important parts of this method is to be sure to give pup plenty of praise and positive reinforcement throughout the process.  During the initial phases of this process praise becomes tremendously important because you want to pup to know first that the thing he’s holding in his mouth won’t hurt him and more importantly, when he holds something in his, it’s a good thing!!! 

For the final exam, I like to use a frozen bird and have pup hold it in his mouth and most importantly, get used to the taste and feel.  Pup also needs to learn how to hold a bird in his mouth comfortably and this does a lot to speed the process along. 

As in any training situation always end on a positive note and by all means; don’t expect over night results.  More than anything though, remember this particular training method takes time and will most likely progress at a very slow pace.  That’s okay.  This means more time to build a bond between you and your dog that will last a lifetime… 

Good luck, 

Andy