Help or hindrance?

Ryan Kay looks at two areas that can divide opinion in gundog training – the use of treats and placeboards. How we perceive these things may be the real problem.

Fit for purpose

Ryan Kay looks at the methods trainers use to get a dog fit for the shooting season, including hydrotheraphy – a technique he believes we could make more use of in the gundog world

Gundog performance: As good as it gets?

Managing your expectations and being honest about your dog’s natural ability is key to ensuring you enjoy them all year round, not just for a handful of shoot or trialling days, says Ryan Kay

Gundog breeding: not just a pretty face!

With no formal breed standards to adhere to, gundog breeders have free rein to work towards whichever characteristics they choose, but two factors remain most important: aesthetics and working ability.

Common dog-handling mistakes on the beating line

Ryan Kay thinks small syndicate shoots are the ideal place to work your gundog, and looks at some of the most common mistakes handlers make on the beating line.

5 commonly asked dog training questions... answered!

Gundogs: how different traits suit different jobs