Gun Dogs and Beyond – Episode 3: Pointer and Setter Training, Instinct, and Trusting the Dog
In Episode 3 of Gun Dogs and Beyond, host Nick Lambert explores the philosophy behind training pointing breeds, particularly pointers and setters, with a focus on instinct, scenting conditions, and restraint in training.
Rather than rigid systems or over-handling, this episode champions a thoughtful, experience-led approach to producing stylish, effective gundogs that can both perform in the field and live well as companions. It is a conversation rooted in decades of observation, mistakes, and success with elite pointing dogs.
Pointers and setters are fundamentally different from retrievers and spaniels. Their role is not to be constantly directed, but to find game independently, use wind and terrain intelligently, and express natural hunting style.
A recurring theme throughout the episode is that great pointing dogs are not manufactured, they are revealed through correct handling, patience, and trust.
One of the strongest messages in this episode is the danger of prioritising obedience too early.
Over-controlling young pointing dogs can: - Reduce range and confidence - Suppress natural hunting desire - Create mechanical, cautious performers
Early development should focus on encouraging search, curiosity, and joy in hunting, rather than formal commands or constant correction.
Scent, Wind, and Ground Conditions
Good pointing dogs are students of scent. Learning how scent behaves is as important for the handler as it is for the dog.
Key factors discussed include: - Wind direction and strength - Temperature and humidity - Ground cover and terrain
Handlers are encouraged to watch how dogs adjust their pattern naturally rather than forcing artificial quartering systems that may work against conditions.
Quartering: Natural vs Manufactured Patterns
Quartering is often misunderstood in pointing breeds. Unlike spaniels, pointers and setters should not be locked into rigid patterns.
Natural quartering: - Adapts to wind and terrain - Maximises scenting opportunity - Reflects intelligence rather than obedience
Trying to impose strict patterns can limit effectiveness and diminish style, particularly in dogs with strong natural ability.
The Role of Pressure in Training
Pressure has a place, but timing and intent are everything.
Poorly applied pressure can: - Cause blinking of game - Create avoidance behaviours - Damage confidence permanently
Well-timed, minimal pressure, applied only when the dog understands the task, reinforces clarity rather than fear. The emphasis should always be on guidance, not control.
A central idea in this episode is trust. Great handlers learn when not to intervene.
Trusting the dog means: - Allowing mistakes early - Resisting the urge to whistle excessively - Accepting that learning comes through experience
Dogs that are trusted tend to hunt with greater purpose, confidence, and independence.
Style, Range, and Individuality
Every pointing dog is different. Some naturally hunt wider, others closer. Style is influenced by genetics, environment, and handling.
Rather than forcing uniformity, good trainers: - Work with the dog’s natural tendencies - Adjust expectations to conditions - Preserve flair and enthusiasm
Trying to make all dogs look the same risks losing what makes great dogs exceptional.
Field Trials vs Real-World Shooting
While field trials play an important role in maintaining breed standards, the episode reinforces that dogs should first and foremost be effective shooting dogs.
Trial success should reflect real hunting ability not artificial performance designed solely to win competitions.
Several recurring mistakes are discussed:
· Over-handling with whistle and voice
· Introducing discipline before understanding
· Expecting consistency too early
· Training for appearance rather than effectiveness
Avoiding these pitfalls often does more for a dog’s development than adding new techniques.
Finished dogs are not rushed products. They are shaped over seasons, not weeks.
Progress depends on: - Exposure to varied ground and conditions - Thoughtful handling rather than constant correction - Allowing maturity, mentally and physically
Patience is repeatedly identified as one of the most undervalued training tools.
· Pointing dogs must be allowed to express instinct
· Early over-obedience can damage long-term potential
· Scent and wind should dictate hunting pattern
· Pressure must be minimal, precise, and fair
· Trust builds confidence and style
· Great dogs are developed, not forced
This article is adapted from Episode 3 of the Gun Dogs and Beyond podcast and has been edited for clarity, structure, and search engine visibility. It is intended as an evergreen resource for handlers, trainers, and shooting enthusiasts.