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.