Talkin Bout HZP!

 My world has officially stopped. All focus is on the HZP Test this weekend. I will actually be testing Hessian on Sunday, time to see what my training efforts will produce. The HZP is the second test in the series of testing that goes on inside the VDD. In this test the dog will be judged on it's abilities as a versatile hunting dog. Much like the VJP in scoring but different in that there are added abilities to watch for as well as water work and retrieving. The subjects judged are as follows: Tracking, Use of Nose, Search, Pointing, Cooperation, Desire to Work.

Water Work consisting of Gun Tolerance, Retrieving, Blind Retrieve in Dense Cover, Search Behind the Duck.

 Retrieving of Furred Game, Feathered Game, Manner of Retrieve, and Obedience. The biggest part of training should have been accomplished by this time.

  My best advice to those looking or getting there pups would be to join the VDD, research, and involve yourself with the testing system. I know it might not be for all people, in fact i wasn't sure if it was for me,but this is a breed of dog that is not for everyone too. These are high drive dogs bred to hunt. That is what they live and breathe to do, it takes a bit more patience, perseverance,and commitment to training and knowledge of dogs and dog behavior. These are not for the light hearted or sensitive souls and in my experience being part of an organization like the VDD who's members,breeders and judges will go that extra way to help another out is very commendable. I would not know where to begin training a Drahthaar without help.

  I am extremely nervous for Sunday, I have trained myself and Hessian so hard I just don't want to fail. My biggest concern arose last week when it finally occurred to me that maybe Hessian is not Force Broke yet. Causing a bit of concern on my part wondering what will happen will he bring the duck,bird or rabbit back? Another would be my choice of using the E collar as much as i did i may have screwed up a bit there, not only has he grown wise to it i have become dependant on it and unsure of what my dog will do without it. I have 2 days till i find out. 

 Advice to those who do plan on testing: Start now. Whether you have a pup now or on the way. If waiting on pups start your research, start reading, start calling people and going with others to watch tests or training. If you already have a pup start conditioning it to retrieve, track, use its senses, and obey. Teach your pup who is in charge all the time, no question. Do not let it get the best of you be dominate and controlling. Of course let it be a puppy but make sure it understands you let it. Start dragging hot dogs or meat and teaching the dog to follow its trail to the prize. Teach it to use its nose and smell a planted bird a few feet away and watch that pup point! Take photos and let it soak up those points no rush. Teach it to chase after a frozen bird you toss and praise joyfully the first time it brings the bird back. Get it in the water alot and soon, those little back yard pools are great. Start firing a cap gun or making loud noise, start showing it what sit,down, stay and come mean. Take it's food from it at random, turn on its back and hold it there, play with its muzzle and teeth and ears and do not let it get angry about any of it. Most of all love your pup, exercise your pup for soon you too will be nervous for your HZP. 

Good luck all be seeing some of you in 2 days.