2O2 TRAINING THE HUNTING DOG 



otherwise. It should more properly be called the 

 amusement system, for such it really is. 



It is, however, an important adjunct to the so- 

 called force system, since the same flattery and pet- 

 ting have the same good effect on the dog when edu- 

 cated by that system, with the additional advantage 

 that he must retrieve whether he is inclined to do so 

 or not. Force properly applied establishes implicit 

 and lasting obedience as a groundwork. The amuse- 

 ment system added thereto supplements it and fur- 

 ther appeals to the dog's self-interest by indulging 

 him in amusement which is pleasurable. Later, when 

 in actual field work, he comprehends the practical 

 application of retrieving and delights in the material 

 success which it brings. However, as it is generally 

 considered as being a distinct method, it will be so 

 treated in this work. 



The "natural" method, so called, is not the best 

 method. The "natural" retriever is rarely a finished 

 retriever. Although termed a method it is inherently 

 devoid of method. Under it, instead of governing 

 the dog by method, the whim of the dog governs the 

 trainer. It is crude and uncertain in its principles, 

 since it is founded on the simple acts of the dog when 



