Member-only story

Guide to the History, Talents, and Training of the Baildale: The Flounderhounder

Colin Richardson

·10k Followers· Follow

Published in Fishing Dogs: A Guide To The History Talents And Training Of The Baildale The Flounderhounder The Angler Dog And Sundry Other Breeds Of Aquatic Dogs (Canis Piscatorius)

5 min read

1.1k View Claps

86 Respond

Save

Listen

The Baildale, also known as the Flounderhounder, is a rare and fascinating breed of dog that has a unique history and set of talents. Originally bred in the rugged terrain of Scotland, the Baildale is renowned for its exceptional hunting abilities, particularly in water. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the rich history, remarkable talents, and specialized training methods of the Baildale, providing insights into this extraordinary breed.

Fishing Dogs: A Guide to the History, Talents, and Training of the Baildale, the Flounderhounder, the Angler Dog, and Sundry Other Breeds of Aquatic Dogs (Canis piscatorius)

by Raymond Coppinger

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3212 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages

Baildale The Flounderhounder Fishing Dogs: A Guide To The History Talents And Training Of The Baildale The Flounderhounder The Angler Dog And Sundry Other Breeds Of Aquatic Dogs (Canis Piscatorius)

History of the Baildale

The Baildale breed originated in the 18th century in the remote Scottish village of Baildale. Originally, they were bred as versatile hunting dogs capable of retrieving game in both land and water. The breed's exceptional swimming abilities and keen sense of smell made them particularly adept at retrieving flounders, a flatfish species abundant in the nearby waters. As a result, they earned the moniker "Flounderhounder."

Over the centuries, the Baildale's popularity grew, and they became prized companions for fishermen and hunters alike. However, the breed's numbers declined sharply in the early 1900s due to changes in hunting practices and the of motorized boats. Fortunately, a dedicated group of enthusiasts worked to preserve the breed, and today, the Baildale remains a highly sought-after dog for its unique skills and endearing personality.

Talents of the Baildale

The Baildale is a versatile breed with an impressive array of talents:

Flounder Hunting: The Baildale's primary talent lies in its remarkable ability to hunt flounders and other flatfish. Their keen eyesight enables them to spot subtle movements in the water, and their powerful swimming skills allow them to pursue their prey with agility and precision.

Water Retrieval: Baildales excel at retrieving waterfowl and game from water. Their waterproof coats and strong, webbed feet make them well-suited for swimming in various conditions. Their gentle mouths ensure the safe retrieval of delicate game birds.

Scent Tracking: The Baildale's exceptional sense of smell extends beyond flounder hunting. They are skilled at tracking both upland game and waterfowl, making them valuable companions for bird hunters.

Versatility: While primarily known for their hunting abilities, Baildales are also capable of performing various tasks. They make excellent companions for active families, enjoying hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

Training the Baildale

Training a Baildale requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their unique abilities. Here are some key considerations:

Early Socialization: Baildales are naturally friendly dogs, but early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop good manners around other animals and humans.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training methods are highly effective with Baildales. Using treats, praise, and play as rewards, you can motivate them to learn desired behaviors.

Water : Baildales are natural swimmers, but introducing them to water gradually is essential. Begin with shallow water and allow them to explore at their own pace.

Flounder Hunting Training: Specialized training is required to develop the Baildale's flounder hunting skills. This involves teaching them to recognize the shape and movement of flounders, as well as how to retrieve them gently.

Scent Tracking Training: Baildales' natural tracking abilities can be enhanced through training. Expose them to the scent of game and guide them as they learn to follow the scent trail.

The Baildale is a captivating breed with a rich history, extraordinary talents, and a unique set of training requirements. Their exceptional hunting abilities, versatility, and endearing personalities make them treasured companions for those who appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and the thrill of the hunt. By understanding the history, talents, and training methods outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of your Baildale and forge a lifelong bond with this remarkable breed.

Fishing Dogs: A Guide to the History, Talents, and Training of the Baildale, the Flounderhounder, the Angler Dog, and Sundry Other Breeds of Aquatic Dogs (Canis piscatorius)

by Raymond Coppinger

4.7 out of 5