How to Build Calmness in Your Gundog: A Gentle Guide to a well rounded Companion

When you bring a gundog into your life, you’re welcoming a bundle of energy, enthusiasm, and natural drive. These wonderful dogs are bred for action, scent work, and responsiveness, which can sometimes make it tricky to find moments of calm. But building calmness in your gundog is not only possible - it’s essential for a happy, safe, and connected relationship. I’m here to share supportive advice that helps you understand your dog’s needs and gently guide them towards a more relaxed state.

Let’s explore practical, kind ways to nurture calmness in your gundog, celebrating every step of progress - including the wobbles - with patience and positivity.

Understanding the Need for Calmness in Gundogs

Gundogs are naturally high-energy and driven by their instincts to hunt, retrieve, and scent. This means they often live with a heightened state of alertness and excitement. While this makes them incredible working dogs, it can also lead to challenges like over-excitement, difficulty settling, or impulsive behaviour.

Building calmness is about helping your dog learn to regulate their emotions and energy levels. It’s not about suppressing their nature or using force. Instead, it’s about teaching them when it’s time to be alert and active, and when it’s time to relax and be calm.

For example, a gundog who can switch off calmly at home or on a walk is safer and more enjoyable to be around. They’re less likely to bolt, bark excessively, or become overwhelmed in busy environments. This improves your connection and makes training more effective.

A calm gundog resting peacefully indoors

Building Calmness in Gundogs: Practical Steps You Can Take

Creating calmness is a journey that involves consistent, gentle training and understanding your dog’s unique personality. Here are some practical steps that have helped many owners:

1. Create a Calm Environment

Your dog picks up on your energy and the environment around them. A calm home with predictable routines helps your gundog feel secure. Try to:

• Keep noise levels moderate

• Provide a quiet, comfortable resting place

• Use calming scents like lavender (safely and sparingly)

• Avoid sudden changes in routine that might cause stress

  
  

2. Teach Relaxation on Cue

Training your dog to relax on cue is a powerful tool. Start by encouraging your dog to lie down in a quiet spot. Reward calm behaviour with gentle praise. Use a consistent cue like “settle” or “relax.” Over time, your dog will learn to associate the cue with calmness.

3. Use Reward-Based Training

Positive reinforcement is key. Reward your dog for calm behaviour rather than punishing excitement. For example, if your dog stays calm when guests arrive, offer treats and affection. This encourages them to repeat the behaviour.

4. Manage Excitement Triggers

Identify what excites your dog the most - it could be the doorbell, other dogs, or the sight of a gun or gunshot during training. Gradually expose your dog to these triggers at a low intensity, rewarding calm responses. This helps build emotional regulation.

5. Incorporate Mental and Physical Exercise

A tired dog is a calm dog. Gundogs need plenty of physical exercise, but mental stimulation is just as important. Puzzle toys, scent games, and obedience training challenge their minds and help reduce restless energy.

6. Practice Mindful Handling

Your own calmness influences your dog. Use slow, gentle movements and a soft voice. Avoid rushing or showing frustration. This steady approach reassures your dog and helps them feel safe.

The Role of Connection and Trust in Building Calmness

Building calmness isn’t just about training cues - it’s about deepening your bond. When your dog trusts you, they feel more secure and are more likely to relax.

Spend quality time together without distractions. Simple activities like gentle grooming, quiet walks, or just sitting together can strengthen your connection. Celebrate small wins and be patient with setbacks. Remember, every dog has their own pace.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to work with your dog’s natural instincts and build calmness through connection, guns & noses offers excellent resources and support.

A gundog calmly exploring nature on a walk

Handling Common Challenges with Calmness Training

It’s normal to face bumps along the way. Here are some common challenges and how to approach them kindly:

• Over-excitement at the door: Teach your dog to wait calmly before greeting visitors. Use a “wait” or “stay” cue and reward calm behaviour.

• Difficulty settling after exercise: Introduce a cool-down routine with gentle petting and a calm voice. Avoid overstimulating play right before rest time.

• Struggling with recall: Use high-value rewards and practice recall in low-distraction areas first. Gradually increase difficulty while keeping sessions positive.

• Anxious or reactive behaviour: Work with a trainer who understands force-free methods to create a tailored plan. Gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning can help.

  
  

Remember, progress may be slow and sometimes uneven. That’s perfectly okay. Celebrate every moment your dog chooses calmness, and keep your approach kind and consistent.

Encouraging Calmness Beyond Training Sessions

Calmness is a lifestyle, not just a trick. Here are ways to weave calmness into everyday life:

• Consistent routines: Dogs thrive on predictability. Regular feeding, walking, and training times help reduce anxiety.

• Safe spaces: Provide a quiet area where your dog can retreat when they need a break.

• Mindful socialisation: Introduce new people, dogs, and environments gradually, always rewarding calm behaviour.

• Use calming cues: Teach your dog to respond to calming signals like a soft touch or a quiet word.

  
  

By embedding calmness into daily life, you help your gundog develop emotional resilience and confidence.

Building calmness in your gundog is a rewarding journey that deepens your relationship and creates a safer, happier life together. With kindness, patience, and understanding, you can help your enthusiastic companion find balance and joy in every moment. Remember, every step forward - even the wobbles - is progress worth celebrating.

Helen xx