My style is socialize the pups to the point of being able to handle them. I ususally drastically drop personal contact with them after that point and let them absorb themself with their peers or adult dogs to attempt and establish a pack mentallity. I usually attempt to kennel pups with older pups already working or finished dogs if they are not to agressive in the attempt to build bonds. Affection after that point only comes when they accomplish tasks or milestones but I still keep it to a minimum. If they are injured they get VIP and full affection until recovered and back in running order. When I retire a dog to stud or full retirement they get affection every day for the rest of their life along with all the perks....running loose, ect.. My view has always been the same.. Hunting dogs are a tool that I utilize for working ability only. I do not raise mine as pets in any sort of way, thats what I keep a seperate pet dog for the family that can be as worthless as it wants. My belief on this matter is perty simple, this is an addiction to me personally and I cannot afford to keep a tool that does not produce up to its own worth. It also desensitizes you as a handler for the inevitable that everyone will face if you stay in this sport long enough. I have lost to many over the years to take that kinda hurt built from a close personal bond with each dog. I lean toward the views of the handlers on here that choose to distance themselves from their hunting dogs because as stated above I don't want them hanging around wanting lovin in the woods. ITS GAME TIME OR GAME OVER!
This post is in no way a jab at the views of anyone else just my own personal way of training.
I understand and respect everyones different style that is what keeps it interesting in here
That about sums it up for me. My working dogs are my working dogs. The kids occasionally mess with them a bit at the kennels, but for the most part it's hands off. Over the years I can probably count on two fingers the number of dogs who were handled as pets that impressed me as hunting dogs. I've also been personal witness to PLENTY of well bred dogs that I feel were screwed up royally due to too much handling.
