How to Care for Your Training Birds Before You Hit the Field

Water is crucial for gamebird health

Training Bird Care Tips

Whether you're preparing for a field trial, a hunt test, or just working your dogs this weekend, the health of your training birds plays a huge role in your success. Poorly fed or stressed birds don’t fly right, don’t flush well—and in some cases, they won’t even make it to the field.

To get the best performance and ensure humane care, here are some essential tips for taking care of your birds while they’re in your hands.

1. Ventilation Matters: Don’t Overlook Airflow

Birds in transport can overheat fast, even in mild weather. If you’re hauling birds in crates, boxes, or trailers, make sure there’s adequate air circulation. Closed crates with no airflow are one of the fastest ways to cause heat stress or even death in gamebirds.

Tip: Avoid stacking crates tightly. Allow airgaps between stacked crates where possible. Keep them shaded and well-ventilated, especially if you’re transporting multiple boxes.

2. Water Immediately Upon Arrival

After transport, birds are thirsty and stressed. Always give your birds access to clean water as soon as they arrive home.

Don’t wait until the next morning or “right before training.” Dehydration can lead to fast-onset health issues, especially in high-strung birds like chukar and quail.

As easy as sliding in a heavy-bottom bowl of water—it might make a mess, but it’ll do the job. The point is to make sure birds rehydrate quickly and reliably.

Tip: We add an electrolyte product - Invigorate - when it's very hot or the birds are stressed. Amazon carries similar products in single packs that make1gallon.

3. Feed the Right Nutrition (Protein Is Critical)

A high-protein gamebird feed is essential for energy, feather quality, and disease resistance. Aim for a feed with at least 20% protein. If gamebird feed isn’t available in your area, look for:

• Meat bird or broiler chicken feed — typically around 22% protein

• Avoid layer feed or “all flock” — these are too low in protein (16–18%)

• Never feed cracked corn alone — it lacks enough protein and nutrients and can weaken the birds quickly

Underfeeding or feeding the wrong formula for just a few days can lead to poor flight response, weight loss, and digestive issues.

4. Monitor for Signs of Illness

Even short-term stress can lead to disease problems in gamebirds. Watch for:

• Lethargy or sluggish movement

• Fluffed-up feathers

• Labored breathing

• Droopy wings or watery droppings

If you see signs like these, reach out to us right away. We’ll do our best to help troubleshoot or guide you to local resources.

Summary: Quick Checklist

• Ventilate crates during transport

• Water birds immediately upon arrival

• Feed 20–22% protein (no cracked corn)

• Watch for illness

• Contact us with concerns—we’re happy to help!

Caring for your birds not only keeps them healthy—it ensures they’ll fly strong, flush clean, and give your dog the training experience you’re aiming for.

Have any questions? Contact us here or message us on Instagram/Facebook.

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