Discussion
racing green said:
Puppy over rescue Springer any day if you have that choice! Three points to bare in mind - 1 All puppies but especially Springers will benefit from CONSISTENCY, in training, feeding and your attitude! 2 Be strict but not harsh, there's nothing worse than a nervous Spaniel and treats such as a ball and chews are for GOOD behaviour. 3 Confidence - Springers feed off the confidence their owner gives them. If you are confident, happy and love your dog this will be mirrored back by a Springer. Don't worry about the training, just get on with it as you see fit. Its as much like raising kids as anything I can think. Enjoy
This is good advice.I would add that once the puppy is a little older only ask it once to do something. I have a 5 second rule then I correct my dog, be firm but fair and ever so consistent
Dont ask it to do anything you cant enforce, other wise you'll just teach it to disobey you.
The dog will see you as the master and your other half as 2nd in command.
When you say consistency with regards to feeding - does that mean the same time every day, that sort of thing?
(Do the booklets from the gundog club explain all this? Apologies, they have arrived, but at my old address. Not been able to read them yet! If they do, then I guess you can diregard that question
)
(Do the booklets from the gundog club explain all this? Apologies, they have arrived, but at my old address. Not been able to read them yet! If they do, then I guess you can diregard that question
)Springers - a good choice! I have two, a b
h and a dog both from different working lines. I dont like the 'show dog' long curly eared type.
The bh is from a good line from a chap who has a small pheasant shoot and keeps approx 10 working dogs. She has her tail docked and is dew clipped (docking certificate handed over to me). At 3 yrs old she is quite obedient, responds to a whistle and is never on a lead (this breed do not respond well to leads in terms of walking to heel etc given their unusual hunting instincts). She is small and can be quite timid at times - she shadow chases which I cant get her to stop!
The dog at 18 months is from another chap who has a small shoot - not a breeder but wanted another bh to carry on the line of his dogs but he ended up with 6 dogs! Hence a local advert. He is not docked or dew clipped. He is bigger than the bh, long and athletic. I describe him as 'thick' which means he would be a doddle to train to retrieve! The hunting instinct is in both - especially in trying to redcuce the grey squirrel population!
I dont use mine to hunt as I dont have the time. My wife takes them out more than me (and they need a lot of exercise) but they respond equally well to both of us. Working springers dont walk - they run everywhere and I can never tire them out. They are not suited to being left alone for long periods.
They are good around people and kids, both soft mouthed and I have to say that despite the bh being 'top dog' they are well suited together and could easily work as a pair.
h and a dog both from different working lines. I dont like the 'show dog' long curly eared type.The b
h is from a good line from a chap who has a small pheasant shoot and keeps approx 10 working dogs. She has her tail docked and is dew clipped (docking certificate handed over to me). At 3 yrs old she is quite obedient, responds to a whistle and is never on a lead (this breed do not respond well to leads in terms of walking to heel etc given their unusual hunting instincts). She is small and can be quite timid at times - she shadow chases which I cant get her to stop! The dog at 18 months is from another chap who has a small shoot - not a breeder but wanted another b
h to carry on the line of his dogs but he ended up with 6 dogs! Hence a local advert. He is not docked or dew clipped. He is bigger than the bh, long and athletic. I describe him as 'thick' which means he would be a doddle to train to retrieve! The hunting instinct is in both - especially in trying to redcuce the grey squirrel population!I dont use mine to hunt as I dont have the time. My wife takes them out more than me (and they need a lot of exercise) but they respond equally well to both of us. Working springers dont walk - they run everywhere and I can never tire them out. They are not suited to being left alone for long periods.
They are good around people and kids, both soft mouthed and I have to say that despite the b
h being 'top dog' they are well suited together and could easily work as a pair.Tonsko said:
When you say consistency with regards to feeding - does that mean the same time every day, that sort of thing?
(Do the booklets from the gundog club explain all this? Apologies, they have arrived, but at my old address. Not been able to read them yet! If they do, then I guess you can diregard that question )
Yeah read them they explain the lot but basically consistant commands like sit not sit down etc.(Do the booklets from the gundog club explain all this? Apologies, they have arrived, but at my old address. Not been able to read them yet! If they do, then I guess you can diregard that question
)Doesn't need to be exactly at the same time every day but my older dog does come up and nudge me between 8 and 8.30pm when he thinks its time for tea. Mine are never on a lead either (the benefits of country living)but I do use the 'invisible lead ie if I can't see them then a quick blast on the whistle or a click of the fingers brings them back. The whistle incidentally is a good tool for Springers (mine's a 211 and a half which is a good pitch and loud) and should be introduced gradually. When the puppy hears the whistle it should learn to return to you and this is reinforced with either a treat and/or special attention. Never used treats myself and they should only be given sparingly. One other final thought on this because there already seems a lot to take in and that is if you go for a puppy you will be taking it away from its mother and it will be all alone and somewhat frightened to start with. It is this crucial time when you and your family will bond together so make it a calm time, give plenty of re-assurance but let him/her know where they stand right from the start. The bond if right will last a life time and as much as anything will determine the relationship you have with your dog.
Raw mince (beef, tripe, chicken) which comes in frozen blocks, defrosted overnight and given as one in the morning, half in the evening. On top of this natural yoghurt (any yoghurt actually), some kibble with vitamins, occassional raw eggs, gravy and cooked vegetables and if they are lucky some raw bones from the butcher. Not all this at the same time but in variety. Feed your dog what you are happy to give, he'll soon tell you if he doesn't like it.
This has been quite a good topic for me because it gave me an excuse to look through all the old photos of mine. I hope the OP doesn't mind a few pics with of course some salient points which I hope will also be useful
8 weeks old and in a secure area of the garden, short walks so as not to overstretch young legs. Secure place to sleep (dog cage is useful at this stage)
Introduction to other dogs and animals for socialisation and to learn boundaries (he has never touched our chickens or cats but knows very well what to do with mice, bunnies and pheasants)
Spaniel feed bowl designed to keep dangly ears out of food
As the previous poster has said lead work is fine but get them used to it young
Dirt and water will never be far away so be prepared for it. My boss can't understand why i would want a dog that swims without any provocation. Oh and nosiness will also rear its head
But sod it all when you can have this much fun!!!!
And if you enjoy one as much as I think we all do then another will bound to come along - just make sure they get 'done' as it stops them wandering. Sorry for the essay. Mark
This has been quite a good topic for me because it gave me an excuse to look through all the old photos of mine. I hope the OP doesn't mind a few pics with of course some salient points which I hope will also be useful
8 weeks old and in a secure area of the garden, short walks so as not to overstretch young legs. Secure place to sleep (dog cage is useful at this stage)
Introduction to other dogs and animals for socialisation and to learn boundaries (he has never touched our chickens or cats but knows very well what to do with mice, bunnies and pheasants)
Spaniel feed bowl designed to keep dangly ears out of food
As the previous poster has said lead work is fine but get them used to it young
Dirt and water will never be far away so be prepared for it. My boss can't understand why i would want a dog that swims without any provocation. Oh and nosiness will also rear its head
But sod it all when you can have this much fun!!!!
And if you enjoy one as much as I think we all do then another will bound to come along - just make sure they get 'done' as it stops them wandering. Sorry for the essay. Mark
Edited by racing green on Monday 4th April 21:28
I don't mind in the slightest! It's all great info. Handsome dog. Where I've just moved has about 12 acres (some of it a campsite), but we also have about 500m of river bank. I think it should be a good home.
My dad suggested I call a friend of his (who I didn't know until now) has had Spaniels for years and trains them as gundogs. Just had a chat with him He said he'd pop over with Moss tomorrow (so I can see what I might be letting myself in for - his words! ), so that's something to look forward to.
Off to see the pup on monday evening with it's mum. Don't think there will be much chance to meet the sire though.
My dad suggested I call a friend of his (who I didn't know until now) has had Spaniels for years and trains them as gundogs. Just had a chat with him He said he'd pop over with Moss tomorrow (so I can see what I might be letting myself in for - his words!
), so that's something to look forward to.Off to see the pup on monday evening with it's mum. Don't think there will be much chance to meet the sire though.
Edited by Tonsko on Monday 4th April 22:21
Edited by Tonsko on Monday 4th April 22:22
I've owned Springers for almost 25 years , I currently have a 4 y/o male (Alfie) and prior to him I had a pair for 15 years.
I find it admirable that you are taking the time to research the breed and are taking all the right steps to making sure your new arrival has the best possible life.
I learned the hard way , but in truth it's not hard at all. They are a very loyal breed , they do have some strong instincts and recall in the early stages can be a problem especially when they smell, hear or see any game birds.
I have found the key to having a relaxed and balanced dog is plenty of exercise and allowing them to socialise with other dogs as early as possible.
Alfie has turned out to be the best dog I've owned , he is 90% perfect in any given situation and the 10% that isn't perfect is the bit that gives him his own unique character. Regarding docking etc , Alfie is just as he was born , nothing has been docked or removed . He does occasionally come back from a run with a spot of blood on the tip of his tail from running full speed through bushes , woods and undergrowth. He's the first dog I've had with a full tail and it did take some getting used to
Training was really easy , they are an intelligent breed and eager to please so you'll have no trouble with the basics , Alf was fully house trained within 2 weeks and has never chewed things or been destructive.
His diet consists of 2 400g tins of Butchers Tripe or Winalot dog food fed morning and evening and he has complete food ( shepherds choice - high protein ) down at all times, he rarely eats more than half a bowl of this per day. He also is partial to a chicken breast on Sundays . I allow him some scraps but only meat or chicken never pastries etc
Here he is ,as a pup
A few years later freshly groomed and in the snow
Longer hair and muddy ( default setting )
Relaxed
Alert
Posing
Instinctive
Playful
Helpful
In the canal
And finally , Stew anyone ?
I find it admirable that you are taking the time to research the breed and are taking all the right steps to making sure your new arrival has the best possible life.
I learned the hard way , but in truth it's not hard at all. They are a very loyal breed , they do have some strong instincts and recall in the early stages can be a problem especially when they smell, hear or see any game birds.
I have found the key to having a relaxed and balanced dog is plenty of exercise and allowing them to socialise with other dogs as early as possible.
Alfie has turned out to be the best dog I've owned , he is 90% perfect in any given situation and the 10% that isn't perfect is the bit that gives him his own unique character. Regarding docking etc , Alfie is just as he was born , nothing has been docked or removed . He does occasionally come back from a run with a spot of blood on the tip of his tail from running full speed through bushes , woods and undergrowth. He's the first dog I've had with a full tail and it did take some getting used to
Training was really easy , they are an intelligent breed and eager to please so you'll have no trouble with the basics , Alf was fully house trained within 2 weeks and has never chewed things or been destructive.
His diet consists of 2 400g tins of Butchers Tripe or Winalot dog food fed morning and evening and he has complete food ( shepherds choice - high protein ) down at all times, he rarely eats more than half a bowl of this per day. He also is partial to a chicken breast on Sundays . I allow him some scraps but only meat or chicken never pastries etc
Here he is ,as a pup
A few years later freshly groomed and in the snow
Longer hair and muddy ( default setting )
Relaxed
Alert
Posing
Instinctive
Playful
Helpful
In the canal
And finally , Stew anyone ?
Edited by R60EST on Monday 4th April 22:28
SPR2 said:
Robert - Alfie looks so different with a short coat. How often do you have him trimmed?
On average every four months , however when we take him away on hols with us if he's looking a bit scruffy we have him cut. It's so much easier to wash him down and dry him off when he's cut short , we can then take him into the pub/ B&B/ caravan at night without any hassle. So four cuts per year is not uncommonHis coat grows so quickly , the short crop and the muddy picture will certainly be less than four months apart
Edited by R60EST on Tuesday 5th April 21:04
Great reading and photos. Grew up with a springer and she gave me some of my best memories from the last 14 years.
Secured a working cocker pup last night. Chocolate with white bib, bh from good working line. Have 4 weeks to wait now gives me time to prep the house/garden.
Thoughts on cages for in the house guys? Some friends say they are great offer the dog security etc but we only ever has a bed/old chair for our springer.
Not sure what to do so what is your set-up?
Secured a working cocker pup last night. Chocolate with white bib, b
h from good working line. Have 4 weeks to wait now gives me time to prep the house/garden. Thoughts on cages for in the house guys? Some friends say they are great offer the dog security etc but we only ever has a bed/old chair for our springer.
Not sure what to do so what is your set-up?
The geezer that came round to chat to me yesterday about them (he uses them for beating) suggested a cage is a good idea, as that's then their 'home' where they can go and be quiet and sleep should they need. He doesn't think of it as a cage as such, just somewhere where it's secure to keep them if you're out and for night time.
...That's not to say it's right, just that I will probably be following his advice.
...That's not to say it's right, just that I will probably be following his advice.
There is no right or wrong , I tried one when Alf was a pup , never locked it just left it for him to go in and out of as he wished , he never went in it once , he settled for the bay window ledge as 'his' place . He still spends most of his day in the house on it
I've since cut a piece of thick pile carpet to fit the window ledge exactly rather than the blanket in the picture
I've since cut a piece of thick pile carpet to fit the window ledge exactly rather than the blanket in the picture
Cages are good for busy houses and puppies but not essential for all their life. My Alfie had a secure bit in the kitchen with a stair gate but once he could jump out we stairgated the kitchen so he knew the rest of the house was OUR space into which he invited at our pleasure! Our back door (main useage door) leads into the kitchen so the boys have the run of that and sleep there at night. The floor is easy clean and there is a cat flap in the door from which Alfie looks out. Most useful as he has been trained to listen out for Fox's. Several nights he has barked furiously and on letting them out they have chased them off. Never thought guarding duties would be a Springer strong point but they are so alert. Lost a lot less chickens too as a result.
Sorry couldn't resist a few more.
Sorry couldn't resist a few more.
I have always crate trained the foster dogs. Several reasons:
The way I see it is that if they are crate trained then the option is always there to use it...
- I don't want to leave dogs that are unknown to each other loose when unattended
- Helps with house training
- Helps to stop your house getting chewed/trashed
- I use them for car travel to keep them safe and separate
- If I stay anywhere but my own house then they are crated overnight - this is especially true when on holiday
- I have to crate the dogs when attending college with them
- Non dog people seem happier to let you visit for the day if you tell them the dog will stay in a crate
The way I see it is that if they are crate trained then the option is always there to use it...
Thanks for the feedback guys and sorry for going OT.
I think it's the word "cage" that puts me off. "Crate" seems a lot more dog friendly. They are reasonable to buy so I think I will get one, any recommended suppliers? Countrywide have a Pet Days throughout April/May with crates at half price?
I think it's the word "cage" that puts me off. "Crate" seems a lot more dog friendly. They are reasonable to buy so I think I will get one, any recommended suppliers? Countrywide have a Pet Days throughout April/May with crates at half price?
Gassing Station | All Creatures Great & Small | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff