By David DiBenedetto

First, a few facts: Heat stroke kills gun dogs. And it kills fast. If you don’t believe me, ask some trainers who have been around this sport for a few years. Their stories will surprise you.

By David DiBenedetto

By David DiBenedetto

As promised, the long awaited results to the dog name contest are in. Your passion and creativity are to be commended. Of the 54 responses, a few common themes seemed to bubble up to the surface. One of those was naming your dog for the headaches he/she might cause in the future. There was Damnit, Bug’s (as in, always bugging me unless she’s hunting), and Pita (for pain-in-the ass).

By David DiBenedetto

I have to admit that one of my biggest challenges as an amateur trainer is knowing the proper amount of pressure to apply when it comes to a reprimand. Just this past weekend we were at the beach, where we have an outdoor run behind the house. In most cases, Pritch will go in on a Kennel command. If not, she may mill around as if she hopes I’ll find something else to do and forget that I want her to Kennel. Normally, I’ll simply change the tone of my voice and she’ll follow orders.