The Sporting Saint Dual Dummy is a specialist transitional tool handcrafted in the UK, designed to resolve retrieval hesitations by blending two distinct textures. Featuring a half-canvas and half-cured rabbit skin body, it provides a unique tactile experience that bridges the gap between standard training gear and real game. This dual-material design is engineered to help dogs that show reluctance when picking up either plain canvas or natural fur, allowing them to become accustomed to both in a single, balanced retrieve.
How the Dual Dummy Works
In structured gundog training, some dogs develop a preference or a “mouth-shyness” toward specific materials. The Dual Dummy addresses this by offering a “safe” canvas surface alongside a natural rabbit skin section. As the dog engages with the dummy, they are naturally exposed to the scent and feel of cured fur while maintaining the familiar grip of canvas. This gradual exposure desensitises the dog, building the confidence required to handle 100% fur-covered dummies or real quarry later in their development.
Why This Type of Dummy Is Useful
This model serves as a critical problem-solving aid in a trainer’s kit:
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Texture Desensitisation — overcomes “fussy” picking habits by offering a split-material surface.
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Scent Introduction — provides a controlled introduction to the olfactory cues of rabbit skin.
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Confidence Building — allows the dog to succeed with a familiar grip while transitioning to new textures.
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Versatile Drills — functions as a standard weighted dummy while providing a higher level of sensory engagement.
Product Specification
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Weight: Available in puppy, 1/2 lb and 1 lb options
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Materials: Heavy-duty canvas and cured natural rabbit skin
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Features: Integrated throwing toggle for distance and accuracy
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Origin: Handcrafted in the UK
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Use: Texture transition, desensitisation, and confidence building
