how old to start on bear

[trevorvanscoy]

I like to start my dogs around 7 months. At that age i start walking them into the tree so they can see the bear. I also let them run loose as we walk to the tree so they get their own chance to trail deer and what not. When they are that young i dont mind for them to run a deer or any other track. Its nice just to watch them trail no matter what it is.

[Emily]

well this advice is in the "better late than never" department, but my own opinion is that one youngster with several experienced hounds is fine, but a whole bunch of youngsters together like that is not a good idea. They need an experienced dog to learn from. That said, bears stink and a pup doesn't have to be a genius to trail one. It does need to have some smarts and experience not to get in trouble with the bear. A bunch of unschooled hounds together is asking for trouble.