The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast cover art

The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast

The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast

By: Terry Ann Fernando
Listen for free

About this listen

 The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast focuses on hunting dog events and competitions for pointing breeds and is intended to inspire and encourage other dog owners to do more with their dogs.2024 HerUpland
Episodes
  • The Mental Side of Dog Handling

    The Mental Side of Dog Handling
    Nov 19 2025
    Do you feel nervous when handling your dog in competitions and events? Even after competing for 10 years, I still feel anxious every single time. In this episode, I dive into the mindset challenges that come with running your dog in tests and trials. I share my own experiences with negative self-talk, including moments when I nearly talked myself out of competing altogether. We explore what pre-performance anxiety feels like, why it's completely normal, and how to work through it so you can show up as the best handler for your dog. I also break down practical strategies—taking care of your physical needs, focusing on constructive thoughts, and setting layered goals—to make things a little easier the next time you handle your dog. -- The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is part of the HerUpland Podcast Network and sponsored by onX Hunt.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Building Engagement to Train Skills for Hunting Dogs

    Building Engagement to Train Skills for Hunting Dogs
    Oct 29 2025

    In this episode, I'm joined once again by Cristina Ralph to explore how building engagement and a positive relationship with your dog sets the stage for effective training so they want to work with us. We break down how marker systems create a clear communication language, and we discuss the difference between drive and arousal—plus real-world examples of how these concepts show up in hunting dogs. If you want a dog that wants to work with you, not just goes through the motions, this episode is a must-listen.

    You can find Cristina on Instagram at @gretablaiseandwednesdayaddams or @huntinginharmony. You can reach her by email at huntinginharmony@gmail.com. Her kennel is vom Zamora Deutsch Kurzhaars.

    --

    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by onX Hunt. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Field Trials vs Hunt Tests vs NAVHDA: What Should I Do With My Dog?

    Field Trials vs Hunt Tests vs NAVHDA: What Should I Do With My Dog?
    Oct 8 2025

    If you're new to the bird dog world, one of the first big questions you'll face is: What should I do with my dog? In this episode, I break down the main types of pointing dog events — hunt tests, field trials, and versatile dog tests — and talk about what makes each one unique.

    We'll cover the organizations behind these events, what kinds of dogs are eligible, and how to decide which might be the best fit for you and your pup. I'll also share a few things to think about when choosing where to start, like what kind of training you enjoy, your dog's natural strengths and weaknesses, and how much you like competition.

    Whether you're hoping to earn titles, join a supportive training community, or just give your dog a fun new challenge, this episode will help you find your starting point in the world of pointing dog events.

    This episode is also available in written form with links and photos! Check out https://accidentalbirddog.com/field-trials-vs-hunt-tests-vs-navhda-which-should-i-do-with-my-dog/

    --

    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by onX Hunt. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.