Pet gundog?

The term ‘pet gundog’ is become increasingly heard, but what exactly does it mean – and what is pet gundog training? Ryan Kay explains

Pick of the litter

If you have decided on the breed of dog you want and are buying a puppy rather than a ready-trained dog, BASC’s Glynn Evans has some essential advice for the next steps

Help or hindrance?

Ryan Kay looks at two areas that can divide opinion in gundog training – the use of treats and placeboards. How we perceive these things may be the real problem.

Ben Randall’s debut book - How to train your gundog

Champion gundog trainer Ben Randall’s highly anticipated debut book, How to train your gundog, is now available to order.

Winding up your dog

Can the wind affect the way my dog behaves?

Fred's leg: a mystery and a miracle!

Vicky Payne has been scratching her head this month after what appears to be a simple muscle sprain diagnosis turns out to be something much more unusual – but, as ever, her perseverance pays off!

First aid in the field

From cuts and eye injuries, to muscle strains and hypothermia, Vicky Payne runs through some common issues in working dogs and how to treat them

A is for Arthritis

An informative guide to some of the most common health issues our gundogs are likely to encounter

Vaccination, vestibular disease and vomiting in dogs

Vaccination, vestibular disease and vomiting. Vicky Payne explains the ins and the outs – literally – of these medical issues

Home sweet home

What size kennel should you have for a labrador?

Fit for purpose

Ryan Kay looks at the methods trainers use to get a dog fit for the shooting season, including hydrotheraphy – a technique he believes we could make more use of in the gundog world

Should I insure my working dog?

Should you get insurance to protect yourself against unexpected vet bills? There are some alternative options to insurance for your dog!

Gundog training: Placeboard training

Whether you choose a board, a hoop or a mat, teaching your young dog to use this target will pay dividends as you progress through their training journey, says Howard Kirby

Gundog performance: As good as it gets?

Managing your expectations and being honest about your dog’s natural ability is key to ensuring you enjoy them all year round, not just for a handful of shoot or trialling days, says Ryan Kay

The parable of a dog breeder

A cautionary tale from Black Lab on the perils of dog breeding. Sometimes, despite following the rulebook to the letter, it just doesn't pan out

Gundog behaviour: Constant vigilance

To quote Mad-Eye Moody from the Harry Potter books, ‘constant vigilance’ is most definitely what is needed this time of year, says Lez Graham

Should I spay my working bitch?

It’s common for vets to recommend spaying bitches, but what are the options? Vicky Payne offers insight into this major decision for gundog owners.

Gundog behaviour: why is my dog acting aggressively?

Vet Vicky Payne explains why gundogs may occasionally display aggressive behaviours, and what to do if that situation occurs.