Hold the Line
106 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago - ★★★★★ - 28 ratingsTHE podcast for force-free gundog training! Hold the Line is committed to helping you to train your dog to an advanced level, using motivational methods and without the use of fear. Or pain. Or anything else nasty.
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Episodes
Episode 103 - the UK's approach to blind retrieves for HPRs
March 18, 2024 13:00 - 45 minutes - 31.5 MBDid you know that HPRs in the UK are expected to handle? That means: To hold straight lines. To be cast left, right and back. Essentially, to 'be' Retrievers. Some of you might thing that sounds insane....
Episode 102 - aversives and listener questions
February 22, 2024 13:00 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MBIn this episode, I answer listener questions about in-a-row blinds, dealing with frustration in blinds and the use of aversives.
Episode 101 - in 15mins "my dog pulls on the leash"
January 01, 2024 00:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MBCheck out episodes 16, 17 And take a look at my online course, Heel.
Episode 100 - in 15mins "my dog has problems with blind retrieves"
December 31, 2023 00:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MBEpisodes to check out are: 30, 33, 34, 36, 41, 47, 48, 62, 64, 66, 85, 88 Online courses covering blind retrieves are: Blind Retrieves Remote Stop First Steps in 3HC Training the T Drill
Episode 99 - in 15mins "my dog doesn't recall in certain situations"
December 30, 2023 00:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBFor more help on this one, check out episodes: 82, 87 See the Reliable Recall course, on my website forcefreegundog.com Or check out the chapter on the Reliable Recall in my book, Force-Free Gundog Training: The Fundamentals for Success, available from Amazons everywhere
Episode 98 - in 15mins 'my dog hunts too far' or 'my dog doesn't hunt far enough'
December 29, 2023 00:00 - 13 minutes - 9.54 MBCheck out podcast episodes: 57, 58, 78
Episode 97 - in 15mins 'my dog gets over-excited'
December 28, 2023 00:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBFor more help on this subject, see podcast episodes: 8, 33, 78 And online courses: Marking Focus and Attention
Episode 96 - in 15mins 'my dog won't deliver to hand'
December 27, 2023 00:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MBFor more help on this subject, see podcast episodes: 10, 11, 13, 14, 19, 23, 26 For an online course, see the Clicker Retrieve course
Episode 95 - in 15mins 'my dog chases game'
December 26, 2023 00:00 - 17 minutes - 12.2 MBFor more help on this subject, see podcast episodes: 5, 23, 49, 51, 57, 58, 62, 76, 87, 89 And check out my online courses: Remote Stop Steady In brief: Build an alternative reinforcer Teach the dog to recall off game before stopping/sitting Teach the dog to stop/sit to flush Teach the dog that access to the game is contingent on their response to you (if they respond, they may get it) Implement prevention (by itself this won't work without also teaching the dog what to do)
Episode 94 - in 15 minutes: 'my dog doesn't give me focus or attention outdoors'
December 25, 2023 00:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MBFor more help on this subject, see podcast episodes: 61, 85, 86 and 88 For food motivation help, see episodes 54 and 72
Episode 93 - NEW Marking course
November 17, 2023 00:00 - 30 minutes - 20.6 MBIn this episode I talk about Marking, as my new Marking course is now available! I also talk about some differences with blind retrieves when it comes to working vs competing with a dog.
Episode 92 - the future of gundog stuff, hard mouth, switching from aversives and daily routines
October 04, 2023 20:00 - 46 minutes - 31.9 MBIn this episode I talk about: the future of gundog training and breeding in today's world hard mouth - what causes it, what to do about it, whether you can assess for it switching from the use of aversives daily routines
Episode 91 - many diverse listener questions!
August 29, 2023 23:00 - 47 minutes - 32.5 MBAnswering many super-interesting listener questions :)
Episode 90 - behind the scenes of training and water deliveries
August 01, 2023 23:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MBI cover a few bits and pieces related not to training itself (how to train a specific behaviour) but how to conceive of various training-related issues in a broader way. Does that sound vague? Well, you'll just have to give it a go. PS I also cover water deliveries.
Episode 89 - 'cigar'-ing bumpers, Recall to Flush and training multiple dogs
July 03, 2023 21:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 MBIn this episode I waffle. About random questions I've been sent. Have a listen!
Episode 88 - free-running, marking and lining
June 04, 2023 18:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MBI talk about whether we should allow dogs free access to the environment or not and also chat about marking problems and lining skills.
Episode 87 - Recall to Flush
May 17, 2023 22:00 - 16 minutes - 11.2 MBI talk freely (extremely freely), about training a recall to flush before a sit to flush behaviour.
Episode 86 - getting focus from your dog, outdoors
April 15, 2023 19:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MBIn this episode, I talk about how to get your dog to offer you focus and attention in distracting environments.
Episode 85 - the T-Drill, accessing birds, distracted dogs
March 29, 2023 13:00 - 31 minutes - 21.3 MBI chat about the T-Drill and a few tricky corners to consider when training this drill. I also answer listener questions about accessing birds and what to do if your dog is distracted at a working test.
Episode 84 - birds as reinforcers, puppy food motivation and joint problems
March 20, 2023 22:00 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MBListener questions about how to encourage a dog to hunt wider/more confidently; how to increase food motivation in a puppy; and how much retrieving is too much (physically).
Episode 83 - cold game and questions about aversives
February 07, 2023 21:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBProbs with cold game retrieves and a couple of questions about aversives
Episode 82 - the unedited one, mostly clicker retrieve and recall questions
January 15, 2023 20:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MBIn this highly unusual episode(!), I waffle (because usually I don't, right?) about the clicker retrieve and recalls and long-lines.
Episode 81 - the one with holiday gift ideas and product recommendations
November 30, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 46.1 MBIn this episode, I recommend my favourite wellies, boots, coats, training vests, dummies, leashes, treat pouches and more. I also answer listener questions about pointing, marker cues and the 'Go Sniff' exercise in my book.
Episode 80 - the one about how you put the HPR sequence together
November 02, 2022 20:00 - 39 minutes - 26.8 MBIn this episode, I waffle freely (extremely freely) about training the HPR sequence - with an attempt to give something of an overview, instead of getting lost in how to train any one behaviour in detail.
Episode 79 - over-population and the impact on quality of life for dogs
October 16, 2022 15:00 - 51 minutes - 35.4 MBThis episode takes a look at the issue of over-population and the increasing amount of restrictions that dogs face as a result. I offer some solutions. I'm not very hopeful anything will be implemented in time to avoid the blanket 'all dogs must be on leash everywhere' outcome.
Episode 78 - behavioural trilogy (part 3) - the super-driven, hunting crazy dog
October 04, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 45.2 MBIn this episode, I talk about 18 month old Roche - our weimaraner. Who is bonkers-crazy, when it comes to hunting. I give you seven tips, for training high drive gundogs.
Episode 77 - boundaries and using food when competing or working a dog
September 16, 2022 12:00 - 34 minutes - 23.5 MBPeople listening to this episode might and want to check out: Episode 61 - Adolescence and what to do about it Episode 56 - what does 'not walking the dog' look like? Episode 54 - some thoughts about food motivation Episode 38 - developing food motivation
Episode 76 - chasing and how to prevent it
September 05, 2022 10:00 - 54 minutes - 37.8 MBIn this episode, I talk about chasing - and how to turn something your dog wants to chase, into a cue to stop.
Episode 75 - the bizarre laws where I live, hardmouth, raising a puppy and engaging an unenthusiastic dog
August 19, 2022 22:00 - 44 minutes - 30.8 MBIn this episode, I talk about the bizarre vagaries of laws local to where I live when it comes to shooting. I answer listener questions about hardmouth, raising a puppy and how to enthuse the unenthusiastic dog.
Episode 74 - retrievers vs HPRs (choosing a breed)
August 07, 2022 14:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBHere are a few things to consider when choosing which type of gundog to own.
Episode 73 - questions about exercise vs training, socialisation vs handler focus and pros and cons of group classes
July 20, 2022 16:00 - 44 minutes - 30.3 MBLoads of great listener questions this week! If you have a question, email [email protected]
Episode 72 - behavioural trilogy (part 2) - food motivation, allergies, body sensitivity and focus
June 29, 2022 13:00 - 35 minutes - 24.6 MBYou only really get to know the dogs you own in the deepest detail, and Ren (our GSP) is an interesting one!
Episode 71 - getting your pup swimming
June 18, 2022 17:00 - 42 minutes - 29.3 MBI talk about how to introduce water to your young dog or puppy. And I waffle a bit about what different dogs bring to the table and the importance of understanding that there are limitations determined by what they bring.
Episode 70 - Split retrieves (or doubles!)
May 31, 2022 18:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MBHow do we achieve reliable split retrieves whilst maintaining confidence?
Episode 69 - listener questions and thoughts about headcollars
May 21, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 41.9 MBI answer some questions listeners have and also chat a bit about headcollars.
Episode 68 - a behavioural trilogy (part 1) - some thoughts about reactivity in working Labradors and - what happened to Fyr?
May 06, 2022 22:00 - 1 hour - 41.9 MBIn this episode, I talk in some detail about how we raised our Labrador litter in 2019 and our 'keeper' pup, Fyr. I discuss the evolution of her behavioural issues - which there was no sign of at all, before the age of 9wks and 3 days(!). And how eventually we made the difficult decision to rehome her at 6 months, to a home and a dog sport which suited her better. I then explore some thoughts I have about the development of fear-based reactivity towards people, especially as it relates to wo...
Episode 68 - a behavioural trilogy - some thoughts about reactivity in working Labradors and - what happened to Fyr?
May 06, 2022 22:00 - 57 minutes - 39.4 MBIn this episode, I talk in some detail about how we raised our Labrador litter in 2019 and our 'keeper' pup, Fyr. I discuss the evolution of her behavioural issues - which there was no sign of at all, before the age of 9wks and 3 days(!). And how eventually we made the difficult decision to rehome her at 6 months, to a home and a dog sport which suited her better. I then explore some thoughts I have about the development of fear-based reactivity towards people, especially as it relates to wo...
Episode 67 - listener questions about sooooo many interesting things
April 18, 2022 10:00 - 31 minutes - 21.4 MBIn this episode, I catch up on some listener questions about getting into trials; the value of different reinforcers and jackpots; fixing a turn whistle problem and how to introduce puppy HPRs to birds.
Episode 66 - 'Baby' 3-handed casting and platforms
March 22, 2022 00:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MBIn this episode, I talk about the 'Baby 3-handed casting' (3HC) drill using platforms (instead of bumpers/dummies). I also chat with Emma Filby of Anglian Dog Works about platform or placeboard training - and how to make your own platforms.
Episode 65 - 'Drop' (that disgusting thing you are eating) and how to train it
February 15, 2022 14:00 - 37 minutes - 25.5 MBIn this episode, I talk about the 'drop' behaviour - and how to train it so that it functions even around high value items like dead, decomposing rabbits. That smell of death. And make you want to throw up.
Episode 64 - the turn whistle, left or right back casts and a couple of myths getting busted
January 11, 2022 21:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MBEpisode 63 - making things real
December 19, 2021 13:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MBIn this episode, I look at a few ideas for progressing from a behaviour indoors (like a sit or a stand) to a behaviour on cue around game and at moments of high distraction.
Episode 62 - the Remote Stop
November 17, 2021 21:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MBIn this episode, I talk about how to train the first stage of the remote stop - 'Capturing Stillness'.
Episode 61 - Adolescence and what to do about it
October 30, 2021 20:00 - 1 hour - 43.3 MBIn this episode, I talk about some difficulties I'm experiencing with my 7 month old Weimaraner, Roche - and I go through a list of suggestions for people who are also struggling with this especially challenging time with their dog! This info will also be useful for people whose dogs are very interested in the environment, whatever their age.
Episode 60 - gun-shyness and puppies loose aboot the hoose
October 10, 2021 15:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBIn this episode, I answer a couple of listener questions: Working with a dog which is gun-shy and dealing with a pup about the house - how to prevent them from harassing other dogs and getting into stuff they shouldn't...
Episode 59 - interview with Hannah Woods and Ian Clark about Stabyhouns
September 22, 2021 12:00 - 44 minutes - 30.3 MBIn this episode, I chat with Hannah Woods and Ian Clark about a minority breed - the Stabyhoun. For more info see the website for the UK Stabyhoun Association at stabyhounuk.com
Episode 58 - developing reinforcers *before* contact with game and problem-solving changes in enthusiasm
September 13, 2021 16:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MBI talk more here about the importance of developing reinforcers which are going to function in the field and in the presence of game - before introducing a pup to game. And I problem-solve (or at least waffle about) issues a listener is having with a lack of enthusiasm.
Episode 57 - attachment theory and puppies; preventing resource guarding; and raising a pup with strong hunting instincts
August 30, 2021 21:00 - 1 hour - 45.8 MBIn this episode, I talk (in brief!) about attachment theory and wonder why we don't apply this to baby puppies more. And I answer some listener questions about preventing resource guarding and raising a pup which wants to hunt (whatever is available!).
Episode 57 - attachment theory and puppies; preventing resource guarding; and raising a pup with strong hunting instincts
August 30, 2021 21:00 - 1 hour - 43.4 MBIn this episode, I talk (in brief!) about attachment theory and wonder why we don't apply this to baby puppies more. And I answer some listener questions about preventing resource guarding and raising a pup which wants to hunt (whatever is available!).
Episode 56 - what does 'not walking the dog' look like? Can I play tug with a gundog? How do I get my dog not to visit the dummy thrower on marks?
August 15, 2021 11:00 - 45 minutes - 31.3 MBA juicy episode with loads of different bits and pieces! What does exercising a gundog look like if we stop 'walking the dog'? Is it okay to play tug with a gundog or does it encourage hard mouth? How can we stop a dog visiting the dummy thrower on the way back from a mark?