Hunting dogs can be incredibly valuable when you're out hunting in the field or woods. They can help you find small prey, track large prey, and even retrieve small game that you kill. Most hunters train their hunting dogs themselves. Training a hunting dog can be a rewarding bonding experience, and almost any dog can become a hunting dog with the right tools and techniques. Here are three things you'll need to train your hunting dog:

1. Dog Bell

When you're out hunting, your dog may sometimes need to roam out of earshot while tracking or retrieving prey. However, you still need to maintain the ability to recall your dog if necessary. If your dog is too far away to hear your voice, a dog bell can come in handy. These bells are louder than the human voice, and you can use it to recall your dog. Purchase the dog bell you intend to use early on in the training process. You'll want to familiarize your dog with the sound and train them to return to you when they hear it.

2. Training Dummies

If you intend for your dog to retrieve small game, you'll need to teach them how to do it correctly. An untrained dog may bite the game too hard, damaging it and potentially ruining the meat. Training dummies allow you to teach your dog to grip felled game softly, in a low-stakes situation. You can buy training dummies in various different shapes. Buy the type of dummy that most closely mimics the type of game you intend to hunt.

3. Blank Bullets

It's natural for animals to startle when they hear a loud, unexpected noise. However, hunting dogs need to get used to the sound of gunfire. A nervous dog can be a liability while hunting. To get your dog used to the sound of gunfire, you can train them by using blank bullets. With your dog nearby, fire your gun in a safe direction during these training sessions. Firing blanks can make the training exercise safer, but you should remember that even blanks can cause injury if used incorrectly.

When training your hunting dog, remember to be patient. It's better to work through your training program slowly, making sure your dog is comfortable every step of the way. This can lead to better outcomes for both you and your dog. There's no substitute for patience and hard work, but the right equipment for hunting dogs can make your task a lot easier and more pleasant.