Pet dog and Hunt dog?

[FlyPhrogs]

Here is my question: We got our golden as a pet, we think their history with children is unbeatable etc. It just so happens though, that my husband loves to hunt on the rare occasion that is works out (we moved from KS a few months ago, and it worked out a lot more there).

We have a good friend in TX who has a hunting business, and he trains hunting dogs in the offseason. We are going to spend about a month in TX and OK this summer while my husband is in Iraq. Neither families have an appropriate place to bring our new pup. Our friend can keep/train the pup during this time, if we desire that. His trained hunting labs usually sell for around $3500.

Getting to my question...Do you think this will "soup" up our "pet" too much? Or do you think we ought to take this opportunity and go for it. My husband would love our canine friend to be able to accompany him on his duck/quail/or pheasant hunts.

Your insights are appreicated.
Heather

[goodtim'n]

Since taking your pup with you is not really possible, then leaving him with someone who is knowledgeable of retrievers, and working with him, for hunting is a blessing for you, It sure beats a boarding kennel situation, Plus this is friend that I am sure you deeply trust, Have the pup trained, it will give the pup a purpose and will not soup up your pup, just the opposite, he will acquire manners, and good judgement, You are lucky to have such a great situation. Go For It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[FlyPhrogs]

Thanks for the encouragement. I think it would be a good situation also, and we will spend a lot of time in the same city as the training, so we will be able to see him all we want. However, when my husband talks to his friend, we might find out that he needs him to not see us, but I don't know yet.

[goodtim'n]

He may not want you to see him??????????? Now that's a "TWIST"

[FlyPhrogs]

I was just speculating. We don't know what he would or would not want. Since we will be in the same town, I really can't imagine not being able to see the pup. We have emailed, but haven't talked specifics.

He usually raises pups for the first year of their lives and trains them.

Heather

[goodtim'n]

I would think that while you are seeing him, that it would also be a good time for the friend/trainer to help incorporate you into the training program, show you and teach along with your pup!!!!

[FlyPhrogs]

ooh, very good point. Too bad my hubby will not be stateside to learn everything too (which is why I am doing the obedience training myself). Actually, my husband has the better teaching skills, he had done an excellent job on his own with former dog, a shih tzu.

I'm excited about Asher learning to hunt. What a great way for hubby and dog to bond further.

By the way goodtim'n, not trying to be rude on the other thread, just voicin my opinion.
Heather

[goodtim'n]

That's what we are all here for mostly, opinion,,,no offense taken, Everythings just dandy :dogbark

[FlyPhrogs]

cheerleade