Volume VI • Issue IV

This issue is packed with first-hand accounts of the highs and lows of gundog ownership. We hear from novice spaniel handler Joe Byrne on his experience of starting out in the trialling world. It is his account of the lessons he learned the hard way, some examples of what he wishes he knew before he started his journey, and the moments that make all the hard work worthwhile. Chris Kilpatrick tells us the poignant story of his rescue labrador Monty - a dog who changed his life forever. And Sam Carlisle explains why the Hungarian vizsla is his gundog of choice, recounting some particularly memorable moments in the field with his HPR.

Continuing his masterclass series, we hear from champion gundog trainer Ben Randall on his innovative BG Positive Stop command. Ben reveals how to teach your dog to view what could be seen as a negative command, in a positive way.

And with Christmas just around the corner, we have some veterinary advice from Laura Hawkins on how to ensure your festive season doesn’t have any nasty surprises in store for your gundog. As we know, there are plenty of very tempting hazards lurking under the tree, on it, or on the dining table… some less obvious than others.

Sticking with the Christmas theme, we’ve picked some of the best gundog-related kit on the market, showcasing five of the best gundog coats as well as a selection of books to add to your wishlist.

Also inside:

• Breed profile: Korthals griffon
• Vet advice: the pros and cons of neutering
• Gundog art: Naomi Jenkin's highly realistic dog portraits
• A profile on Charlie Thorburn of Mordor Gundogs
• New diary series following the training of cocker pup Nessie
• The Pointer and Setter Champion Stake report
• The Irish Kennel Club Pointer & Setter Championship report
• Pack of the Week: your dogs online and in print