I came out with no expectations this morning, just to let her have some fun and throw some bumpers. She has already done awesome on the long walk in and helped me set up decoys. Lol she is however a blind destroyer! No regard for my hard work! I will let you know how it goes.

So the morning started off good with just me Pumpkin and 6 decoys. I took her to a pond that I knew wouldn't have a ton of action, but is shallow. My plan was to go let her have some fun, and leave after a couple hours. I didn't make her stay still or anything...no pressure at all.

This is Pumpkin helping me put out decoys. We spent most of the morning plying in the water.



This is what I got when we weren't walking or splashing around....
Spoiled much?

Even though we were making all kinds of noise and not staying still this Gadwall came in. Pumpkin did her first real retrieve. She did not see it drop, but it was flopping a little and she spotted the target.



We then threw a few bumpers in the deeper water and went home. We both had a lot of fun. I know that I will probably get some negative feedback about taking her out so young, but it is my last hunt of the year and I just wanted her to go. I put us in the best possible situation to do as little actual hunting and as much playing as possible. I think it was a very positive experience. I'm glad I decided to take her out! Having said that we have a lot of work to do in the offseason. This girl can't stay still!!! Lol

2nd and 3rd pic should be switched

Sounds like you and her had fun....she is a good looking dog.

Glad you had some fun. Good looking pup.

Thanks!

Nothing wrong with that. You set realistic expectations and didn't demand more than she was capable of. Glad you enjoyed it.

The dog part is the main reason I hunt Luv to see em do there job

Great looking dog. How old is she?

Awesome pics.

I've always catered to the school of thought of don't push a pup too hard, but let them enjoy what they're doing and they'll learn faster and remember more.

Sounds like you're hitting the nail right on the head...

Thank you. Pumpkin is 17 weeks old. I got her from Royse City^. She has a cool personality. I hope that we have plenty of good hunting years ahead.

How much does she weigh now, her sister was 35lbs at 16 weeks.

On 1/8 the vet weighed her in at 34lbs. I'm not sure about right now. When I get home I will check. She hasn't gained much since then.