My new Lab puppy is scared of gunshots - how do I introduce him?
Just got my first bird dog, an 8-week-old black Lab. I took him out while I was patterning my Beretta A300 with some Federal Top Gun 7/8oz #8 loads at 30 yards, and he totally freaked out and hid. I'm worried I've already messed him up. What's the right way to do this?
1 Answer
First off, don't panic - you haven't ruined him! Puppies that age have super sensitive hearing. Start by just having him around you while you handle your unloaded shotgun, then progress to having someone else shoot far away (like 100+ yards) while you feed him treats. Use light loads like those 7/8oz #8s you mentioned, and keep sessions short and positive. The key is making gunfire predict good things. What's your pup's name, and how's he doing with basic obedience so far?
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