Keep a Steady Hand

In videos and photos of retrievers in action, you’ll frequently see the handler put his or her hand above the dog’s nose before issuing the command to retrieve. There’s one good reason to do this, but many more ways to do it incorrectly.

Three things influence the direction a dog will leave the line: the alignment of its head, spine and attitude. Spine alignment is best adjusted by positioning the dog at heel; minute adjustments learned in 360-degree heeling drills are foundational. Alignment of attitude reflects genetics, relationship, conditioning, situation ... even how the dog feels that day.

Head alignment is based on the dog seeing the bird and/or hearing the shot and/or picking up where the gun was pointed, etc. While awaiting the command to “go,” the dog may move its head, particularly on multiple birds down. The correct insertion of the hand above the dog’s head is to “lock it” into position when the dog is looking the direction it is to go.

Don’t try to guide the dog’s gaze by inserting and moving your hand. Do not insert your hand while birds are still dropping, as it will distract attention from the marks. When the dog’s gaze is where you want it, insert your hand into its peripheral view and give the command.

Also, don’t put your hand way down in front of the dog’s face. Obscuring its view will likely cause the dog to turn its head, which is exactly what you don’t want.