The first thing you’ll need to train your dog to hunt waterfowl is a good hunting dog, of course. The most popular breeds for hunting are Labrador Retrievers and Springer Spaniels. Once you’ve your dog picked out, starttraining him to hunt as early as possible. The younger the dog is, the better he’ll retain the information you teach him.

The first thing you should do is make sure that your dog understands basic commands. “Sit”, “stay”, “fetch” and “come” are very important when hunting with your dog. He needs to sit and stay still when you’re doing the shooting, and fetch the waterfowl once you hit your target. What use is a hunting dog when he runs all over the place and makes a chew toy out of the duck instead of bringing it back to you?

Next, get your dog used to water as much as possible. Give him bathes, take him swimming in a pond, etc. The more used to water is before his first attempted hunt, the better. After every water-related experience, reward him with a treat or some other form of positive reinforcement. If he makes the connection between water and something good, he’ll be moreprone to repeat the good behavior. If you’ll be using a boat while hunting, be sure to get him acquainted with boat rides.

Getting your dog used to the scent of a waterfowl and a decoy is the next. Make sure he understands the difference, otherwise he may fetch you the decoy instead of the real thing. Now it is time to put these steps together. Try attaching the sent of the waterfowl to the decoy and throw it in the water. If he fetches it, reward him with a treat.

The dog also needs to be accustomed to the sound of your shotgun. Bring him to a target area, with him tied up. Start by shooting a ways away from him, slowly getting closer to him over time. Most likely he’ll be very frightened by the sound at first. After a few sessions, however, he should get used to it, even if you are shooting right by his side.

Now bring all of these elements together in the playing field before his first large hunt. Have your dog sit by your side, shoot your gun in the air, and throw the scented decoy for him to fetch. Keep practicing this in parts and in whole until he understands the concept. Once he has done that, you’re both as ready as you’ll ever be for the real thing. If, however, he does not respond properly, do not fret. Just keep practicing. You’ll be having roast duck in no time.