Though edible rewards are banned by many professional trainers, or viewed as bribes by others, some advocate the use of gundog training with treats. David Tomlinson decides whether reward-based training…
Gundogs
The best beating dog: in the beating line
Over the years, David Tomlinson has seen just about every sort of dog in the beating line. But what makes the best beating dog? He considers some of the best…
How to introduce a puppy: companion or competition?
Ensuring a new recruit is welcomed by long-standing residents can be a tricky business. David Tomlinson advises on how to introduce a puppy to an older dog, having successfully integrated…
Celebrating 150 years of golden retrievers
What are considered the first golden retriever pups were born 150 years ago, and enthusiasts marked the occassion with an anniversary trial. David Tomlinson joined the celebrations, while considering how…
How to photograph your gundog: dogs in the frame
Whether you are hoping to triumph with a worthy picture for Gundog Photograph of the Year or simply want to take a pleasing snap of your companion in the field…
The Field Gundog Awards 2018 winners and highly commended
The Field Gundog Awards 2018, in association with Skinner’s Pet Foods, attracted a wide variety of entries from every type of gundog. Some were from old hands that executed particularly…
Best spaniel breed: a new companion
As a gundog writer, David Tomlinson knows more about our six spaniel breeds than most. So he is faced with a tricky decision in his search for a new puppy.…
Flatcoated retrievers: the Edwardian gun’s choice
During the Golden Age of shooting, flatcoated retrievers were the gundogs of choice. David Tomlinson takes a look at how the flatcoat was supplanted in the line by today’s most…
How to transport your dog in a car: dogs on the move
There are many ways to transport your dog to the shoot, but which avoids travel-sickness and muddy paws while keeping them safe and secure? David Tomlinson advises on how to…
Off duty gundogs: what to do in the off season
Days in the beating line or on the peg may be on hold for now, but our gundogs remain busy come summertime. Most gamebirds are currently off the menu but…