Using plenty of birds during training will help keep pup's interest level high, thus curtailing many potential problems.

Spaniel trainers often pick pup up and return him to the point of his infraction. That is valid, but the same thing can be accomplished by quickly snapping a short lead on pup and quickly pulling pup back to where he disobeyed.

The use of a lead spun circularly so pup's head does not get in front of his handler's left leg when learning to heel speeds the process. Additionally, a light switch can also be used in a similar fashion to teach pup his limits. Neither the lead nor the switch should be used heavy-handedly.

Finally, electronic collars can be used for instant corrections, and they are not torture devices. Used properly they help a trainer obtain consistent performance from pup, even when pup is at a distance. Electronic collars help make corrections immediate, thus more effective.

The key to electronic collars is using them judiciously, AFTER pup has learned, and demonstrated that he knows what you want. A collar is not a teaching tool; it is a "reminder" for pup.

Get pup in shape and knock a couple of pounds off of him (yourself, too), do some yard training to sharpen pup's memory and have a safe, successful bird season!