Training Your Labrador Retriever for Gundog Work: A Step-by-Step Guide

Labradors are the UK’s most popular gundog breed—and for good reason. They’re intelligent, biddable, and naturally love to retrieve. But turning your Labrador into a capable working dog takes time, consistency, and the right approach. Whether you're prepping for a working test or training for the shooting season, this guide will walk you through the essential steps.

Quick Tip: Ready to meet experienced gundog trainers? Find a trainer near you

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Step 1: Master Basic Obedience

Before any retrieving begins, your dog must respond reliably to basic commands.

Key Commands

• Sit: The foundation of all steadiness
• Recall: A must-have for any off-lead work
• Heel: Keeps your dog close and focused

Train these daily in short sessions. Reinforce success with praise, treats, or a favourite toy.

Pro Tip: Keep your recall fun! Use an excited tone and always reward generously.

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Step 2: Build Drive with Early Retrieves

Labradors love to fetch, but that doesn’t mean they naturally return dummies cleanly.

Start with:

• Soft puppy dummies
• Controlled indoor or quiet garden spaces
• Short distances (2–3m)
• Minimal distractions

Above all else as this stage it needs to be fun!

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Step 3: Introduce Whistle Training

A whistle is essential as your dog gets a little older.

Use it for:

• Recall: 3 short pips (for example)
• Stop: One long blast

Start with verbal commands before introducing the whilst. Over time, fade out the verbal so your dog responds purely to the whistle.

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Step 4: Teach Steadiness

A gundog must resist the urge to chase every movement. Steadiness is the mark of a well-trained Labrador.

Practice with:

• Tossed dummies the dog must not retrieve
• Waiting for your release cue (e.g., “Fetch”)
• Distractions like other dogs or sounds

Start close and calm. Then build up distance, energy, and excitement gradually.

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Step 5: Simulate Real-World Training

By now, your Labrador should have solid control and an eagerness to work.

Introduce:

• Retrieves over water
• Varied terrain (woodland, field, cover)
• Group training with other dogs
• Shotgun sound desensitisation (always at a safe distance first)

Join a club or attend training days for safe exposure and structured progression. Browse gundog clubs across the UK

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Step 6: Prepare for a Working Test

Working tests are simulated hunting events using dummies, not live game. They're great for beginners.

Your dog will need to demonstrate:

• Obedience under pressure
• Memory retrieves
• Marking ability
• Handling at distance

Wondering what to expect? Read our guide to working tests

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Bonus: Training Tips for Success

✅ Plan your session before you start ✅ Set yourself up for success, every time ✅ Train little and often (5–10 mins is ideal) ✅ Don’t rush to advanced retrieves—control comes first ✅ Video your sessions to track progress

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FAQs

What age should I start training my Labrador for gundog work?

Start with basic obedience at 8 weeks. I/ntroduce retrieving games around 10–12 weeks. Typically serious field training usually begins at 6–9 months at the earliest.

Do I need a professional trainer?

Not necessarily—but it definitely helps. A good trainer can correct issues early and ensure you don’t unintentionally reinforce bad habits.

Find a trusted gundog trainer near you

Can a pet Labrador become a gundog?

Absolutely—many great gundogs start as pets. The key is consistency and structured training.

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Ready to Train?

Training a Labrador for gundog work is a rewarding journey. Whether you're training for the field or just want a well-behaved, engaged dog, every step brings you closer to a brilliant bond with your dog.

🔍 Looking for events? Explore gundog working tests and field trials across the UK

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