Springer Acting Wierd

[kmgplus3]

Out pheasant hunting last weekend, with a friend and his dog, with my dog. This was my dog's first hunt with another dog and hunter not in my family. About 1/2 hour into the hunt, my dog (which had been doing fine on prior hunts and that morning) wouldn't leave my side. We hadn't shot, didn't see her get stung by a bee or anything else. She all of a sudden was literally under my feet for the next 2 hours. Towards the end of the time, she actually started to sit down as I walked away and would only come when called. Any ideas on what happened? I'm planning to take her out tomorrow with only me, to see how she does...

[Guest]

Was one of the other dog owners shouting commands at another dog?

Maybe your dog got a little command-shy.

------------------
Chells

[greenman]

How old is the dog? 1/2 hour might be all a young pup can put out.

[kmgplus3]

The other owner used his whistle a couple of times now that you mention it - when he did my dog stopped and looked at him. That could be it! She's about 2 1/2 years, and has hunted for 2-3 hours with "pond breaks" for water and swimming with no problem.

[Surface Tension]

Look for burrs or cuts on her feet and between her toes.

[kmgplus3]

Checked the feet - all good there... When we got home, she played and ran around like the normal happy dog.

[setterguy]

It could be so many things- Where were you hunitng? I have seen dogs get scared by, snakes, owls, foxes, and coyotes. But as said in an earlier post if your friend is on the whistle or yelling alot your dog just isn't used to it. If she appeared to be healthy I would just chalk it up to inexperience with other dogs/hunters and their techniques. What I would do is every time your partner gives a command/whistle just give your dog some praise and encourage her to get up and keep hunting. I would think this will pass. Good luck.

[Scott Steil]

Was the dog well hydrated? Sounds like dehydration to me.

------------------
Mille Lacs Guide Service
www.millelacsguideservice.com

[kmgplus3]

No problem with hydration. We had only been hunting for about 1/2 hour in the morning. Dog had a drink a the truck before we started and it was a fairly cool/breezy day. I'm taking her out this afternoon with some game farm birds to see what happens. I'll let you know. Thanks for all the responses.