Rick Smith Seminar Recap

Went to the Rick Smith Seminar a few weeks ago. I have 3 older bird dogs (Large Munsterlanders) that have hunted for years and I am planning on getting a Setter pup in August. So, I thought this might be a good opportunity to refine or rehone my skills. I did not take a dog with me and am sorry I did not. I would advise anyone who goes to take a dog with them. The seminar began on Friday, when Rick basically told everyone what to expect for the following two days. I was not able to attend Sunday because of a family commitment, but Saturday's session was well worth it. Rick taught us what he calls the figure 8 which is a way to discipline without any type of yelling or commanding. The figure 8 has been a godsend to our family. Since that evening when I learned how to use it, I have applied it to each of my dogs when they misbehave. After an evening of this, all I have to do now is bring the figure 8 rope out and all 3 of the bird dogs go over and lay on their nests.

Rick makes training simple and basically says that you should never lose your temper with your dog because once you lose your temper, you have lost the battle. He says not to make it a big deal. Just do it. He took dogs on Saturday that were misbehaving and after a few hours, they were angels. I plan on attending the seminar again next year with my little pup thatI'll be getting in August.

Dave
LCS GUNROOM