Welcome to Byron Gundogs! I'm Thea, and I’m thrilled to join this incredible team as a trainer. Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of owning, working with, and training some amazing working dogs. My heart truly belongs to Spaniels—I’m a mad Spaniel lady through and through! There’s something about their intelligent minds and boundless energy that brings me so much joy.
About Me
My journey with dogs began seven years ago, and it has been an adventure filled with learning and growth. I particularly enjoy participating in working tests and training days with my youngest Spaniel, who, at just two years old, is already a cracking dog. I’m a country girl at heart and love every role within a shoot, whether it’s beating, picking up, or being on peg.
At Byron Gundogs, I’ll be focusing on training the more experienced dogs in our gundog classes and serving as an instructor for our workshops. I’m excited to bring my passion and expertise to help you and your dogs achieve your training goals.
Getting Started with Your New Gundog
Bringing a new gundog into your life is an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re new to this or a seasoned handler, here are some guidelines to help you and your new gundog get started on the right foot.
1. Building a Bond
The bond between you and your dog is the foundation of effective training. Spend quality time with your gundog outside of structured training sessions. Play, take walks, and enjoy each other’s company. This will build trust and make your dog more responsive during training.
2. Understanding Your Dog’s Breed
Each gundog breed has unique strengths and instincts. Spaniels, for instance, are known for their energy and intelligence. Understanding your dog’s natural tendencies will help you tailor the training to their specific needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for breed-specific advice to ensure you’re on the right track.
3. Basic Obedience Training
Before diving into specialised gundog training, ensure your dog masters basic obedience commands like sit, recall, and heel. These commands are the building blocks for more complex tasks. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as food and praise, to encourage good behaviour.
4. Introducing Your Dog to Water
Many gundogs need to work in and around water. Start with gentle introductions, allowing your dog to explore shallow water at their own pace. Use dummies and games to make the experience enjoyable, gradually increasing exposure to deeper water as their confidence grows.
5. Exposure to Different Environments
Gundogs must be adaptable to various environments, from open fields to dense woods. Expose your dog to different settings during your walks and play sessions. This will help them become confident and comfortable in diverse situations, essential for their role in the field.
6. Patience and Consistency
Training a gundog requires patience and consistency. Set aside regular, short training sessions to keep your dog engaged without overwhelming them. Consistent commands and expectations will help your dog understand what is required of them.
7. Socialisation
Introduce your dog to others in a controlled, neutral setting. Don't let them go up to every dog they see. The same goes for people; your dog doesn't need to meet everyone. Over-socialising can cause problems later on.
8. Seeking Professional Help
If you face challenges or want to ensure you’re on the right track, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Byron Gundogs, we offer group training classes tailored to each dog’s needs, as well as a variety of workshops. With expert guidance, your dog will become a skilled and reliable companion in the field.
Training a gundog is a rewarding journey filled with learning and bonding. With patience, consistency, and the right guidance, your new gundog will become a treasured partner in all your hunting adventures. I’m excited to be part of the Byron Gundogs family and to help you on this journey. Happy training!
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