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#31 Unlock a fascinating world of canine adventure with Ben Leger, founder of Georgian Bay Shed Dogs and Canadian Antler Dogs, as he reveals the thriving sport of shed hunting. This growing pastime taps into dogs' natural instincts to find and retrieve shed antlers – a behavior even observed in wild wolves and coyotes.

Ben walks us through how this accessible sport has evolved from casual recreation to structured competition through the UKC Elite Shed Dog Series. With championships, titles, and even scholarship opportunities for youth participants, shed hunting has created a vibrant community of dog enthusiasts. What makes this activity particularly appealing is its inclusivity – while Labs dominate the field, Border Collies, Malinois, and even small breeds like Pomeranians can excel with proper training.

The competitive format proves both challenging and exciting: dogs and handlers navigate football field-sized courses containing five hidden antlers, with top competitors completing the challenge in under two minutes. Ben shares invaluable training insights, from avoiding constant commands that might frustrate dogs to using targeted drills that build confidence and independence. His online training program at trainasheddogcom offers structured guidance for handlers looking to develop their dogs' natural talents.

Perhaps most compelling are the heartwarming stories from the shed dog community, including Ben's 11-year-old son who recently beat him in competition by nearly a full minute with their Hall of Fame dog. These personal connections highlight why so many families are drawn to this affordable, accessible sport that strengthens the bond between handlers and their dogs.

Whether you're an experienced gundog owner or simply looking for a new activity to enjoy with your canine companion, shed hunting offers a unique blend of natural instinct, teamwork, and outdoor adventure. Check out Canadian Antler Dogs online to discover how your dog might excel in this rewarding pursuit.

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