The real reason your gundog isn’t listening, and how to fix it
Why clarity is key when training your gundog breed (yes, even if they’re a Labradoodle or a Cockapoo)
Do you own a gundog or perhaps a much-loved breed with gundog heritage such as a Cockapoo or Labradoodle?
Perhaps you’ve noticed their endless energy, intelligence, and eagerness to engage, but also found yourself wishing for clearer communication and less confusion during training sessions.
You’re not alone.
No matter their breed mix, clarity is a fundamental guidance principle within my Canine Ease™ training approach, specifically designed to support overwhelmed gundogs and their owners.
Let’s explore why clarity matters so much, how it can help your overwhelmed dog feel calmer and more confident, and how the Canine Ease™ 6×6 Framework™ can guide you step-by-step towards enjoyable, stress-free training.
Why clarity matters (even if you’re not “working” your gundog)
Many popular breeds, Labradors, Spaniels, Pointers, Setters, HPRs, and their crosses like Labradoodles and Cockapoos, were originally bred for hunting, tracking, flushing, fieldwork and such. This heritage means your incredibly intelligent and sensitive dog naturally thrives when expectations, communication, and routines are clear, predictable, and consistent, when they have clarity.
Without clear communication, your gundog breed can become easily overwhelmed.
What does overwhelm look like for you and your dog?
When I talk about overwhelm in dogs, this can show up in ways many owners don’t initially realise is overwhelm:
- Hyperactivity and an inability to relax
- Constant pulling or rushing on walks
- Reactivity, barking, or lunging at distractions
- Frustrating recall struggles or selective listening
- Difficulty settling after exciting activities
- Issues such as jumping, mouthing
- Seeming “stubborn”, “wilful” or “disobedient”
For you, overwhelm might look like frustration, exhaustion, or feeling stuck. You’re trying everything, but nothing seems to work.
This overwhelm cycle can be dramatically improved by simply introducing clarity into your everyday interactions.
Clarity: a core principle of the Canine Ease™ 6×6 Framework™
My Canine Ease™ method, and its signature 6×6 Framework™, is specifically built around six core guiding principles (the Six C’s), with clarity being central:
- Clarity
- Connection
- Communication
- Calm
- Consistency
- Compassion
Clarity forms the foundation, because without clear communication, consistent results simply aren’t possible. It’s about simplifying your interactions, so your dog always knows exactly what’s expected.
How to bring clarity to training your gundog breed
Here’s how you can practically apply clarity using elements of my Canine Ease™ approach:
1. Set clear and consistent boundaries and cues
Clear boundaries remove uncertainty and stress. Your gundog breed needs to know exactly what you expect.
Use simple cues: Short, clear words like “Sit”, “Wait”, or “Come”.
Use consistent cues: Avoid switching between similar words (e.g. “here” and “come”).
Unsure you use a clear tone and body language: Dogs read more than words, keep your body language intentional, calm, and consistent.
2. Establish predictable routines and rituals
Gundog breeds thrive on predictability. Clear routines dramatically reduce overwhelm, providing comfort and security.
Clear signals for the start and end of training, like a distinct whistle tone or clear verbal cue (I recommend and use ACME whistles to keep consistency clear, for more information on the correct tone for your breed check out my blogs or join my mailing list or even drop me a message).
3. Mind your energy, your gundog mirrors it
Your gundog breed is emotionally sensitive and highly tuned to your mood. Your clarity in energy is key to reducing overwhelm.
Ground yourself first: Use mindful practices to settle your emotions before interacting with your dog.
Stay calm and steady: Your calm energy communicates clearly to your dog that everything is safe and predictable.
4. Regular reflection (part of the 6×6 Framework™)
Reflection is essential for ongoing clarity. Notice when training becomes challenging, it’s an opportunity to clarify and simplify further.
If a cue isn’t working, pause, reflect and adjust rather than pushing harder.
Celebrate moments of clarity, every success reinforces your dog’s understanding and strengthens your bond.
Clarity in action: Freddie’s story (Cockapoo clarity!)
Consider Freddie, a Cockapoo who came to me bursting with energy, struggling to settle indoors, and often overwhelmed on walks, pulling his owner and barking at distractions.
Using clear Commitment Cues™, structured routines, and mindful energy practices from my Canine Ease™ 6×6 Framework™, Freddie quickly transformed:
- Walks became calm, enjoyable, and relaxed.
- Freddie became responsive and focused, even in distracting environments.
- His owner experienced greater connection, calmness, and trust, dramatically reducing stress for both ends of the lead.
Final thoughts:
Clarity is a major training foundation, it isn’t just for traditional working gundogs. It’s a fundamental skill for any dog owner who wants calmness, connection, and confidence with their dog. By committing to clear, mindful communication through the Canine Ease™ 6×6 Framework™, you’ll dramatically reduce overwhelm, for you and your dog, creating a lasting foundation of joyful training.
Ready to experience clarity with your overwhelmed gundog breed?
Start today, simplify your cues, create clear routines, and stay calm. Your dog will thank you!
Content Disclaimer
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article. Nina Fotara T/as Confident Canine disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article.
