Getting Your Dog Ready for Teal and Dove Season

The early days of hunting season bring excitement and plenty of opportunity. September marks the start of teal and dove seasons—fast-paced hunts that test both hunters and their dogs. Success in these early season traditions isn’t just about finding birds or choosing the right loads. It’s about preparing your retriever to perform with confidence when the action begins.

Building on Obedience

A steady, reliable dog is the foundation of every good hunt. Before the season begins, refresh core commands like sit, stay, and recall. These basics keep your retriever under control when flocks arrive in waves and help avoid unsafe or chaotic situations in the blind or field.

The Importance of Steadiness

Early season hunts are often high energy. Teal buzz the decoys at first light and doves can appear suddenly, zipping across open skies. A dog that breaks too soon at the sound of a shot can miss retrieves or even create safety issues. Reinforce steadiness through short drills and delayed retrieves, rewarding patience to build consistency.

Conditioning for Early Season Weather

Unlike the colder months of duck season, early teal and dove hunts take place in warmer conditions. That means training sessions should mimic the environments your dog will encounter. Work short sessions in water for teal retrieves and practice endurance in dry fields for doves. Always provide plenty of water and rest, watching closely for signs of overheating.

Practicing Realistic Scenarios

Hunting rarely happens in perfect conditions, so training shouldn’t either. Prepare your dog for distractions like gunfire, decoys, and multiple birds. Use bumpers with feathers or wings to simulate the look and feel of game. The closer training resembles the real hunt, the smoother your dog will transition when the season opens.

Care During the Season

Early hunts demand as much from your dog as they do from you. After each outing, check paws for cuts or wear, clean ears after water retrieves, and dry off thoroughly to prevent irritation. Keeping up with small details helps your retriever stay healthy and ready for the next hunt.

Closing Thoughts

Early teal and dove seasons are fast, fun, and rewarding—for hunters and dogs alike. A well-prepared retriever not only improves your chances in the field but also makes the hunt safer and more enjoyable. By focusing on obedience, steadiness, conditioning, and realistic training scenarios, you’ll give your dog the confidence to handle the challenges of September hunts.

Just as hunters prepare their shotguns and shells before opening day, preparing your dog is part of the tradition. A little effort now ensures smoother retrieves, steadier sits, and more memorable mornings when teal and doves fill the skies.