When the shooting season winds down, it’s tempting to let your gun dog relax a little… but too much downtime can dull their skills. Off-season is the perfect opportunity to focus on training, exercise, and mental stimulation so your dog is ready to hit the ground running when the season returns.
Even outside the field, your dog’s instincts and fitness need regular attention. The good news? Keeping them sharp doesn’t have to be a chore, and it can be a lot of fun for both of you.
Keep the Basics Fresh
Just because there’s no shot being fired doesn’t mean you should forget the fundamentals. Commands like sit, stay, and come are the foundation of every well-behaved hunting dog. Off-season is the ideal time to reinforce these skills, especially in new environments. A quick walk in the park or a hike in a different woodland area can turn a simple recall session into a stimulating challenge.
Introduce Something New
The quieter months are perfect for trying out new skills. Perhaps it’s refining scent work, practising steadiness at distance, or even teaching a new trick. Training outside of the hunting season builds your dog’s confidence and keeps their brain active, making them sharper when it really counts.
Mix Up the Exercise
Long walks are great, but variety keeps a dog engaged and fit. Swimming, agility courses, or scent games provide both physical and mental exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog and keeping them active now prevents them from gaining those “winter pounds” that can slow them down next season.
Play to Their Instincts
Retrieval games, scent trails, and hidden toys are excellent ways to keep hunting instincts alive without needing a shotgun. These games tap into your dog’s natural drive, turning playtime into practical off-season training. It’s all about keeping their skills honed in a fun, stress-free way.
Don’t Forget Health and Conditioning
Off-season is the perfect time to focus on overall health. Vet check-ups, grooming, and a good diet all contribute to a strong, fit dog. You can also introduce gentle conditioning exercises like hill walks or controlled fetch sessions to build stamina and strength for the coming season.
A little effort during the off-season pays off big time when hunting season starts again. A fit, engaged, and well-trained gun dog is safer, more reliable, and a joy to work with. Plus, it strengthens the bond you share - a tired, happy dog makes for a happy owner too.