Does your dog try to kick at a trapped bird instead of making a clean retrieve? 🐕‍🦺

In this video I show how I worked through that problem with my Springer Spaniel, Blaze, using a simple basket-and-bumper drill. Instead of kicking at the bird, this setup encourages the dog to put his head straight in and take a proper hold for a clean retrieve.

In this video you’ll see:

• The problem: dog kicking at a trapped bird instead of retrieving

• How to set up the basket + bumper exercise

• Blaze learning to go in, pick up, and deliver cleanly

• How this drill can help with field work, hunt tests, and everyday retrieving

This exercise is especially helpful for:

• Sporting dogs (Springer Spaniels, retrievers, etc.)

• Dogs that like to paw, nudge, or kick instead of picking up

• Handlers who want a calm, confident retrieve on trapped birds

If you find this helpful, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment about what retrieve problems you’re working on with your dog. I may turn your questions into future training videos.