Instruction on Hound Handling
and
Young Dog Development
In circumstances where clients express an interest or need, Layser's Kennel & Contracting offers a seminar on the general handling of hounds for hunting as well as the specific steps with young dogs that will allow an owner to get the most performance possible from their tracking hounds.
The photos throughout this page follow the same litter of Layser Hounds through early development
Speaking to genetics versus environment, also known as nature versus nurture, our instructional seminar breaks down the steps, tools and tactics that will maximize the potential of young hounds, lay sound foundations for development of advanced capabilities in a hound (where genetics allow) and provides an outline for hound handlers that will enable them to avoid common mistakes that most handlers make. This is not only a "how to" seminar for handlers but also a "what not to do" which is often just as, if not MORE, important.
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The discussion of developing a hound to it's maximum potential includes key topics such as:
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It starts with the Handler - Ego and Honesty
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Genetics Versus Environment
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How to Start
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Socialization
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Proper Praise
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Exposure to the right scent
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What to look for in your dog
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Development of the ability to tree
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Leash work with a young dog
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Vehicle work with a young dog
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Preventing the pursuit of "off game" or "trash"
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The First Hunt - The second Hunt
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Working your hound to Maximize Genetic Potential
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Hunting versus Working your Dog
Depending on the location and scheduling Layser's Kennel & Contracting will attempt to have a young hound from our kennels at the seminar in order to demonstrate the principle concepts of handling and development during the course. When possible, participants are encouraged to bring a young or developing dog of their own to the seminar, in order to begin putting into practice the procedures discussed.
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The seminar includes a classroom power-point and lecture portion including photos and videos of the practices we employ to develop a hound as well as actual handling and working demonstrations of young dogs as much as possible.
