Heartworm, or roundworm, is very serious can affect all types of gun dogs. With gun dogs, working dogs, and other outdoor dogs, you must be especially concerned because they are more susceptible to heartworm. The worse case scenario is that an affected dog can pass it on to humans, as well as other dogs. In turn, you can also pass on heartworm to your own dog.

Known as a parasitic disease, roundworm can be transmitted from mosquito bites or other animals. It doesn’t affect dogs exclusively; other animals like foxes and coyotes can all contractg roundworm, meaning that should an affected animal come in contact with your dog, he will likely get heartworm. Because treatment is very difficult, heartworm prevention is the safest “treatment”. Heartworm can even kill your dog.

Preventing Roundworm/Heartworm

Prevention can come in the form of tablet or food additive when given to your dog as a preventative measure. A tablet can be ingested orally and mahy come in the form of a dog treat, and food additives can be added or mixed with food. Most of these treatments are monthly applications. Remember to give it to your dog each month. Use a calendar if it helps you remember.

In areas where there are four seasons, the primary carrier of roundworm is mosquitoes, which ingest infected blood and then give it to another animal as they sting them. In areas with less harsh seasonal changes, roundworm is more often transmitted from animal to animal. In all cases, giving your gun dog preventive treatment every month, no matter the time of year, is a best practice.

Symptoms of Roundworm

Unfortunately roundworm infection is not necessarily easy to identify. It may be a few months after being infected with roundworm that your dog shows any symptoms at all. While this is the period of time that roundworm is most easily treated, it is often the time when they are noticed the least.

Symptoms will begin as a cough, a loss of energy, and weight loss. You will see your dog become weaker and less interested in normal daily activities and fun. Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if you notice these symptoms, as they can be many sicknesses, including roundworm.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Roundworm

Blood tests are needed to confirm a roundworm diagnosis. It is an easy test and most vets are able to administer a blood test right in the office. Once confirmed, the vet will have to find out what stage of the illness your dog is affected with, determine whether or not the infestation is male or female, and make a final decision on the best course of treatment.

Once diagnosis has been made, treatment can begin. If the infestation has gone on for a while, it can become costly and extensive to treat. The roundworm must be destroyed completely and this is usually done through drug treatments and sometimes dialysis. It’s very taxing on your dog’s system and will result in weight loss and listlessness, especially when the worms begin to be discharged through your dog’s stool. Follow up treatments can last for months to ensure that all the worms were eliminated.

If left untreated, roundworm infection can lead to organ damage and treatment for a lifetime. Detecting symptoms as soon as possible is very important and treatment must start right away.

When you have any sort of hunting dog, you should always keep in mind that you should always keep your dog’s health as top priority. There are also lots of different hunting dog supplies that you should have on hand for your dog such as shock collars or dog collars.

What do you need to successfully train your dog? Other than Tri-tronics dog training collars and SportDOG training collars, one of the hunting dog supplies you’ll need is the dog training bumper. The ideal one for training your retriever is one that is made to last for repetitive use, and flexible, soft plastic.

Hallmark Dog Training Bumpers

When training a retriever, dog bumpers are a strong tool and they come in a variety of sizes and styles. Hallmark makes some of the best quality bumpers available from both plastic and foam, depending on your needs. Select from solid plastic, canvas-covered, or feather stuffed. They’re all durable, feel realistic to the dog, and are non-toxic. They’re excellent retrieval training tools. An added feature is the scent-holder for keeping duck scent on the bumper, making training easier.

No matter what kind of dog training bumpers you choose, you should look at each one for the following benefits:

A) Superb construction
B) Durable materials
C) Safe, non-toxic materials

Ideally if you are training a puppy you might want to consider using plastic training bumpers. The advantage of these is that they are less expensive than some models and offer a variety of bright colors – this makes them easier for your dog (and you) to identify them when you are training your hunting dog in the field.

Dog training dummies

Training dummies that float are also very useful and popular training tools. Using foam-bodied dummies with your training can better simulate retrieving in the field and better prepare your dog for the job. Remember that “bumpers” and “dummies” are interchangeable names that apply to both types of training tool, whether it’s land or water-based. They’ll both help you train your dog to hunt and retrieve fowl for you.

How to use dog training bumpers and dog training dummies

To get the most out of these useful tools, it’s recommended that you use them with scent. Duck and goose scents are readily available in most hunting supply stores. The scent is usually injected into the dummies (bumpers) and is a valuable added tool for successfully training your retriever.

Most owners of hunting dogs elect to use a dog training collar. If you’re looking for a trusted name, a good one to choose is the DT Systems line of dog training collars. The DT Systems line is, in today’s market, one of the highest-ranked collars. They are widely available hunting dog supplies at many stores and online.

DT Systems H20 1800 Series Dog Training Collars

The most affordable DT Systems dog training collar is the H20 1800 series. This dog training collar is completely waterproof and works at distances up to one mile. With varying degrees of stimulation (16 levels) which includes a gentle touch stimulation, the DT Systems H20 1800 Series is the most affordable of all dog training collars.

DT Systems EXT Plus 5000 Train & Beep

If you’re looking for a system that allows you to locate your dog as well as train proper behavior, the DT Systems EXT Plus 5000 Train & Beep System is the one you’ll need. This system allows you to use intermittent as well as continuous stimulation modes and also allows you to locate your dog up to a quarter of a mile away. The system is completely waterproof and offers a way to gently correct your dog to enhance training.

DT Systems SPT 2430 Shock Collars

This is the top of the line for DT Systems, giving a huge range of abilities, flexibility, and precision. The SPT 2430 Dog Training Collar is waterproof and offers the unique Jump and Rise technology. This allows you to increase the stimulation your dog receives by the touch of a button. It gives instant correction and response and gives added assurances during emergency or dangerous situations. For field training, the DT Systems SPT 2430 Dog Training Collars can’t be beat, working at distances up to 1.3 miles.

Whatever your dog training collar needs, DT Systems has a variety of options to fit your requirements and budget. These systems train for field work, obedience, and safety.

Do you have a new puppy who you plan on training as a hunting or gun dog? If so, you will need to know what kind of supplies you will need to get your puppy off and running. To prepare for your new puppy, you’ll need some supplies to get started.

Dog Crates

The fact of the matter is, puppies aren’t born housebroken. Sad, but true. This means you’ll need to housebreak puppy and the best way to do that is through create training. A lot of other benefits come from this as well and crate training utilizes puppy’s “denning” instinct to make it all happen. Crates also keep your dog (and your house) safe while he’s unsupervised.

Fortunately, regardless of the size of your dog, crates are easy to use, they come in a variety of sizes and some can even be collapsed and put away once you are done using it. Some dog owners only use a crate until a puppy is housebroken and then only for rare occasions.

Most dogs enjoy the crate because their instincts are to “den” in a quiet, comfortable, almost-confined space. It helps them feel protected, secure, and safe. Whether you get an aluminum or metal-wire dog crate, you will want to make sure it’s the right size for your dog. For puppies, get one with a divider to put inside so you can let the crate grow with your puppy. It should be just large enough for the dog to stand up straight, turn around in, and lay down flat.

Dog Training Collars

Dogs don’t train themselves—another sad fact. Luckily, they have us to do it for them and the process is usually fun. Training hunting dogs is even more of a challenge with greater rewards. Training collars can really help with this, especially the long-range electric collars. Whether you choose one of those or a simple choke collar for obedience training, make sure it’s the right one for you and your dog.

Training collars are designed to serve a purpose. You’re obviously attempting to train your dog not just to become a great hunting dog, but also so that he will listen to your commands and remain safe. Using training collars will help fulfill these goals. Find out what kind of system works best for both you and your dog, and start early while your dog is still a puppy.

Other Hunting Dog Supplies

When you first bring your puppy home, you will want to start working with him early to train him to be the most effective hunting dog possible. There are a number of products that are available wherever you shop for your hunting dog supplies that will help you train your dog effectively. Some of these products include:

1. Dog whistles: both obedience (call) whistles and water fowl imitation whistles are available and useful in training.
2. Dog training bumpers/dummies – for teaching retrieval and flushing, they simulate the bird to be hunted.
3. Launchers – for sending the dummies into the field or from hidden positions to better train your dog for outdoor hunting and retrieving.

Your new puppy will be a part of your home and hunting experience and will become your best friend for many years. Make sure you have the right hunting dog supplies and tools to make your training effective and fun!

To ensure that your dog is able to successfully work with you on a hunt and is well-trained in the art of hunting, there are certain supplies you’ll need. The range of supplies includes crates, training collars, whistles, bird launchers, and more.

Basic Hunting Dog Supplies

Because most hunting dog owners get their dogs from known, reputable breeders, getting a puppy means complete training. It will take effort from both you and the new puppy, but having the right aids will make your lives much easier.

Dog Crates

Your puppy will need to become used to a crate immediately. Otherwise, your puppy may grow up to be afraid of crates, or will simply refuse to sit in a crate. Also, a crate will provide a comfortable, quite place of relaxation and getaway, and will allow him to become acquainted with his new home.

Dog Whistles

These whistles are convenient and won’t bother other humans (the pitch is far too high) but they are ideal for your dog. If properly used, you can train your dog to come to you immediately when he hears the whistle. This is very effective when you’re in the field hunting and you’re ready to leave and your dog is not in sight.

Duck and Game Whistles

There is a difference between duck and game whistles and dog whistles. The difference is that duck and game whistles are to be used in training your dog to flush and retrieve game. These whistles can be used with proper bird launchers to maximize training. Using these whistles out on the field will train your dog to behave when you’re hunting. Some whistles will offer the best of both world: a game whistle and a calling whistle.

Dog whistles should not be confused with duck whistles and other game whistles. These are used in the training process to teach a dog how to flush as well as retrieve. Duck and game whistles are sold at any place that sells hunting dog supplies. You will use these whistles in conjunction with bird launchers to simulate being in the field. Some of these dog whistles come with a variety of different sounds and can be used to both call your dog as well as imitate the sound of ducks and upland game.

Bird Launchers

You should train your new puppy to retrieve, as well as point and flush, and you should do so as soon as possible. Bird launchers are the choice training tool for most hunters when it comes to this kind of training. Use it with a bird whistle to show your dog what it will be like when you’re out together on the field. Regardless of whether you’re training to retrieve, flush, or follow, bird launchers are the top choice. You’ll find that a lot of bird launchers come with remote controls, each designed to train your dog to learn how to be a good hunting dog. Retailers of hunting dog supplies will usually keep bird launchers on hand.

Other Hunting Dog Supplies

In addition to the supplies mentioned above, you can find bumpers and dummies that can help train dogs in retrieval techniques in both water and on land. When used with a scent they can help train your hunting dog even better. Remember, the sooner you train your dog to get used to the field, your gun and prey the better he will be on the hunt.

If you are looking for hunting dog supplies to train your retriever, you are looking for high quality, affordable training tools that can help train your dog to bring dead foul to you during a hunt. One of the most trusted names in Dead Fowl Trainers is Dokken.

Using the Dokken Dead Fowl Trainer

The realistic-looking dog training bumpers (also called “dummies”) is this Dokken Dead Fowl trainer. It’s easy to use and top of the line in features. The soft body makes for realism and can be injected with scent solutions for a variety of fowl. The hard plastic head and feet keep the dummy’s shape while the foam body is durable and lifelike. The superior construction means it holds the scent for hours, giving you hours of practice time with your retriever.

Dokken Scent Injector

To maximize your training efforts, be sure to purchase the scents to be used with your hunting dog bumpers. This is one of the most beneficial features offered by Dokken, so take full advantage of the Dokken scent injectors.

Types of Dokken Dead Fowl Trainer

Among different types, the most popular Dokken Dead Fowl Trainers are the Back Duck, Snow Goose, Honker Goose, and Mallard. This variety allows you to train your retriever to retrieve only the types of dead waterfowl that you hunt. They are waterproof, making them ideal for the water, but can be used for training on land as well. You can also get the Dokken pheasant bumper if you hunt pheasant. This will enable you to train your retriever dog for upland game.

Realistic Look and Smell

Upon getting your first Dokken dog training bumpers, you’ll notice how realistic they are on their look, feel, and smell. Your hunting dog will quickly learn the smell and look so that he can become a more efficient hunting dog. Flushing and retrieving, as well as retrieving with soft mouths to hands, Dokken products are sure to make your training experience with your dog a great one.

Offering excellent quality, Dokken products are exactly the training tools you’ll need to effectively train your bird dog. The Dokken Dead Fowl Trainer is the perfect tool for teaching your dog important hunting and retrieving skills, which will make him a great hunting companion

You have a dog you know you also need a good strong collar. Whether you select leather or nylon the collar must be strong and comfortable for your dog. Make sure when you are shopping for dog collars that you find the dog collar that is not only cost effective that is most suitable for your dog.

Leather dog collars

Leather is all natural and will stretch to fit around the neck of almost any dog. When selecting a collar you do not want the collar to be too tight but it should also fit snugly. To insure a proper fit try inserting two fingers between the leather collar and your dogs skin. If you are unable to fit both fingers comfortably you will want to loosen the collar. Make sure the collar is not to loose or your dog is liable to escape! Owners of hunting dogs often elect to purchase a leather collar however, if your dog has a tendency to be in and out of water a nylon collar may be better.

Nylon dog collars

A nylon dog collar typically costs less than a leather collar and generally will not last as long as a leather collar. However if your dog is wet often because you live in a wet area or your dog spends a lot of time in and out of water a nylon dog collar may be a better option since they tend to be waterproof.

Dog collars for corrections

You can also opt for a tracking collar so that you can track your dog if he gets out of your sight, or a corrective collar which will send a signal to your dog at your command. Both types are very useful for hunting dog owners because it will come in handy during dog training.

All of us want our dogs to be safe and protected but at the same time we want them to be well trained. Using a dog collar that allows you to send a signal to your dog letting them know their behavior is not appropriate will help you train your dog. This is especially important if you are the owner of a hunting dog.

Overview

Dog collars may be used for tracking, training, or simply allow the owner to attach a lead and identification tags. Whether you’re walking your dog, training and hunting dog, or out in the field with your hunting dog the right dog collar is critical to not only keeping your dog safe but also allows for easy identification if he should get away from you.

Summary

No matter what kind of dog you have, choosing the right collar is essential. There are many types of good dog collars out there, and you should be able to find all the Hunting Dog Supplies you may need at your local hunting dog supply store or online. Shop around and find the perfect one for both you and your dog.

Using a dog crate is the way most dog owners house train, transport, and give a little home for their dogs. Whatever your use for one, getting the right one for your pet is important.

Aluminum Dog crates

When it comes to aluminum dog crates, the name, Kalispel, comes to mind. These aluminum dog crates are very solid and durable, and will last for a long time. The best part is that there is no assembly required; it comes ready-to-use. In addition, it is fairly lightweight while still offering a strong material to safely house your dog.

The Kalispel aluminum crate also has the benefit of drain holes for easy clean-up. They are offered in many sizes, from small to extra large, and will provide a safe and comfortable place for your pet. These crates can be used both inside and outside, you can assured that your dog will be protected from the elements, like wind or rain. The Kalispel aluminum crate has a great reputation and will hold up very well.

Metal Dog Crates

A great alternative to the aluminum dog crate is the metal dog crate. They are less expensive than the aluminum crates, and you can frequently find metal dog crates at pet kennels. The bottom of metal crates may be constructed of either metal or fiberglass, and please note that these crates are typically not assembled so you’ll have to put it together yourself. This is good for small spaces because it can be collapsed and stowed away when not in use, which makes it a snap for owners who will be using metal dog crates indoors. It is metal, however, so if you need a crate for outdoor use, make sure you get one that can stand against the weather and elements.

Dog Crate Supplies

While it seems that a dog crate is basically self-contained, there are supplies that should go with them. These include covers for insulation, option rooftop additions, and carrying handles or cases. Keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and dry are important and these accessories can do that for you. Other supplies might also include tie-downs for use in truck beds or cargo areas, feeding containers that attach to the crate, and more. Every crate will have different options available. Check with your Hunting Dog Supplies store for available options.

It’s summer and it seems like fleas are everywhere. Luckily, today’s pet owner has an arsenal of flea treatments at their disposal. Pyrethrin is a safe and widely used insecticide. Methoprene and Fenoxycarb are insect growth regulators (IGR) which prevent eggs and larvae from developing into pupae. Always treat bird dogs and their environment at the same time.

A flea’s life span can range from 2 weeks to 8 months. Because the pupa is wrapped within the protection of a cocoon, insecticides will not affect them one bit. This is why they are extremely difficult to kill, and also the reason why pet owners experience another flea outbreak just 2 weeks for the first treattment. As the pupa stage ends and the adult flea develops, you are left in the same position you began.

Flea Baths
Using a regular flea prevention shampoo can help with flea control. One thing to be careful about though is flea dips – especially if you have children in the house. Flea dips are very harsh and most leave a residue on your dog – they’re only recommended in cases of very extreme infestation and should be discussed with your veterinarian before use.

Spot On Medications
This type of flea treatment is administered between the shoulder blades of the pet. It’s a monthly treatment that will kill adult fleas for sure, and some brands will even prevent larvae and egg growth. These medications can only be used on dogs older than eight weeks. Water activities, like swimming or baths can make spot on medications less effective.

Pill Flea Treatment
Known for its effect as a “flea birth control”, this is also a monthly treatment. When the flea bites your dog, they become sterile and die without every laying eggs. When this happens, the fleas will die out completely, leaving you flea-free. Since this type of treatment can’t be washed off in water, it is great for pets that live indoors.

Natural Methods
Not everyone likes to use chemicals for flea control purposes. If this is the case, you should vacuum thoroughly as often as possible. In addition to carpets, vacuum furniture, pillows, and bedding. Properly discard the bag, or burn it, right away. Secondly, you should wash everything in the hot water cycle. Lastly, use dried pennyroyal, diactomaceous earth, or pyretthrum powder. Apply it on pet bedding and underneath cushions and mattresses. However, don’t use pennyroyal if your dog is pregnant. Repeat this process every few days.

Clean from inside out
Pet bedding, furniture, cushions, and thick carpets are fleas’ havens. Before treatment, always vacuum everything and everywhere in your home. Then, burn or properly discard vacuum bags immediately. Fleas love dust and hair, so this is important. It’s also important to wash all pet clothing and bedding in hot water. Insecticides are most effective on young, immature fleas.

Outside, fleas love wet, shady areas like dog houses, flower beds, and under decks or porches. Treat any location where your pet spends a lot of time. Fully mow and rake your yard. Get rid of leaves in flower beds and under bushes to increase the areas exposed to insecticides. The garage, basement and other places with non-carpeted floors should be thoroughly mopped to get rid of flea larvae hiding in crevices. Wash pet carriers and vacuum the car!

You can also choose a fogger or spray for your home, yard, and other areas, as they are very effective. You may need to repeat treatment in areas of severe infestation, usually every 2 or 3 weeks.

Flea bites cause all kinds of problems for pets and people. Intense itching can lead to skin problems, hair loss and infections. A bad infestation can lead to anemia and tapeworms. Allergies to flea saliva can cause flea dermatitis. Getting rid of a flea infestation is imperative for the health of your pet. Following these steps will help your pet and your home stay flea free.

There are lots of hunting dog supplies out there on the market, they range from dog crates, to dog collars, to electronic hearing protection. Make sure you do your research before you buy something to make sure it offers exactly what you want.

It’s important for owners of gun dogs to know that the tools and supplies required for hunting dogs is quite different from those required for family pets. At any given time, our pets may be kept outdoors during inclement weather, but for the most part, pets are kept indoor when bad weather presents itself. But for hunting dogs, the story changes; when they join you for hunting, they will be outdoors in all types of weather conditions. As a hunting dog owner, you will need to ensure his comfort as best as possible.

Dog vests

One item that may be invaluable is a dog vest which will help protect your dog. It’s not unusual for us to see small dogs wearing sweaters or vests to protect themselves from the weather, but for hunting dogs they may be necessary. Just as you protect yourself from the cold you want to make sure that you’re hunting dog is comfortable regardless of the weather. A well insulated vest can help ensure that you’re hunting dog stays comfortable and warm while you’re hunting. In order to find a properly insulated vest you may need to go to a store that sells hunting dogs supplies.

Dog doors

Wouldn’t it be nice if the next time your dog wanted to go out that he could let himself out without disturbing you? Provided that your dog will be safe in a fenced yard or other containment area a doggie door may be the solution. Whether your dog is a pet or a hunting dog, a doggie door is easy to install, and ideal for allowing your dog to go in and out of the house unsupervised. Not only do doggie doors allow your dog freedom they are perfectly safe as these doors are not large enough for a person to get through. Any good doggie door is insulated and easy to install. Nearly any store that sells regular pet supplies or hunting dog supplies will have a variety of doggie doors.

Dog Collars

Regardless of the type of dog you have you are going to need specific supplies. For those with hunting dogs, a dog training collar may make the difference between a well trained hunting dog and one who goes off on his own. These correction collars can be purchased nearly any place that sells dog supplies. For owners of hunting dogs and a tracking collar may be a necessity. Tracking collars will typically only be sold at a store that specializes in hunting dog supplies.

Making sure that your dog regardless of whether he is a pet or hunting companion is well behaved, safe, warm, and comfortable is your responsibility. Finding your hunting dog supplies can be done in stores or can be done online.