training my pointer i need help fast

[UplandMan]

I have a 8 month old German Shorthaired Pointer and made the mistake of starting off by training him "come" instead of "whoa" first what should i do.

[lundboy]

why do you feel you made a mistake. dog needs to know both commands
just start your whoa work now.i dont see this as an issue at all.there are many ways to teach whoa.get some books or video.  

[Bird Dog]

In My opinion, you did the right thing.... dogs should know their name and come when called before you take them out on the field and risk having your dog run off and not come back. Very often dogs get distracted when out on the field they get to chase a bird or any other animal. If you teach your dog to come on command, then you can stop the chase and get him to head back to you. (this is very hard on most bird dogs.)
Personally, I spend two weeks or more if needed with all dogs just to teach them three basic command, whoa, here and OK or GO if I want them to hunt. I might add they do not see a bird during this time... it is strictly obedience.
Hope this helps.

[Don Fischer]

Bird Dog. From Texas, a field trialer probally Amer. Fld from the look's of that pointer. I think you'll agree with me about whoa training, leave it alone for now. That's hand's on and restrictive training. Don't know what method you use but I've used the Delmar Smith method with a few twist's of my own. I do use a collar but strongly go along with Greg Koch's tape.

As for teaching come, do it. What good's a dog don't know his own name?

[htrjv]

The info you've gotten to date is right on the money.  Before you head into the field your pup must be obediance trained.  Suggestion: Check Amazon.com, or your local Boarders Book, or Barnes and Noble Bookstore for Dick Wolters book, "Gun Dog".  Not only does he go through all of the important commands and how to train your dog, he also delves into the "windows" of training for your pup as he grows.  I've trained Shorthairs and Irish Setters to hunt using Dick's methods.  They really work.  There are many books on this subject ( I know, I've purchased them), but Dick's is the best. IMHO.  Good luck with your pup.  There's nothing like hunting with a trained bird dog.  Joe

[Don Fischer]

Do yourself a favor and buy several book's. Add Jerome Robinson's book, I can't remember the name right now but it is good, and buy Bill Tarrent's book "The Best Way to Train Your Bird Dog, The Delmar Smith Method". Take your pick, I've read them all and would only suggest one.