Striking problem/skunk

[bluesman]

Went out last night and had a few problems. We were boxing the dogs and they would strike, but could never find a track to follow. I was wondering, do you guys think it is poss. that they were striking a coon on the other side of the creek and they could wind it from the top of the box but not the ground? The other thing that happened was two dogs started a skunk trail. I have just bought my 5yr walker x blutick and know he has not been run in a wile but still seems to be a decent dog. He wasnt really interested in the trail until the other dog really opened up and talked him into it. He got it right in the face. My question is, should I wash it of or leave it on him as a way of breaking him of that for good? Thanks for the help.

[cjohnson1178]

how long have u had this dog. how many times have u hunted him.

[radar]

Dogs bark on the rig for all kinds of reasons not everytime is it a strike........JMO

[bluesman]

This was the first time I have hunted the dog. I am new to the sport but I was with a friend who has been in it for a wile and has good dogs. I guess I just need to get to know the dog a little better. Darn, I guess that means hunt, hunt, hunt.

[cjohnson1178]

i agree, the striking thing isnt a problem not all strikes turn into a race. but the skunk thing is a problem (obviously), but shouldnt be hard to fix, but u got to fix it as it is happening or just after. since the dog is new to you dont break him to hard, you dont want to loose his trust. u got the right idea hunt, hunt, hunt. where at in oregon are you.

[bluesman]

I live in Grants Pass. Its hard when you dont know how broke a dog is. I dont think it will take much either. It really took some convincing from the other dog to talk him into it. I just want to get him straight because he is a rock solid, machine gun chop tree dog. the main thing is I need him to train my 4mo bluetick.

[cjohnson1178]

i think if i were you i would hunt alone alot more and less with your friends trashy skunk hound. I better knock on wood or i will get sprayed tonight.. you'll never know unless you turnem loose. good luck.