Talk Birdie to Me: Bird Dog Banter with Emily

Emily Shirey
  • 5.0 (13)
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  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Talk Birdie to Me Podcast, Bird Dog Banter with Emily! This is an informal but educational discussion on dog-related topics. We’ll cover everything from waterfowl and upland hunting, to training tips, and even some controversial topics from a dog trainer’s perspective. If you like what you hear, please be sure to subscribe and follow me on social media at Shorthairs & Shotguns and Horizon Retrievers. horizonretrievers.com shorthairsandshotguns.com

  1. 18 | Improving Your Dog's Diet

    10/28/2025

    18 | Improving Your Dog's Diet

    Boost your dog's bowl! In this episode, we’re diving into one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your dog’s overall health—enhancing their diet. This episode goes into depth on how to add fresh, whole foods to kibble in a safe, effective way. If you want to update your dog's health but aren't sure where to start, start here! Perfectly Rawsome Horizon Retrievers Shorthairs & Shotguns

    1h 8m
  2. 17 | Bringing Home a Birddog: Your First Bird Dog Puppy

    09/30/2025

    17 | Bringing Home a Birddog: Your First Bird Dog Puppy

    Thinking about bringing home your first bird dog puppy? Whether you're dreaming of upland fields or waterfowl blinds, this episode is your essential guide to starting off right. We cover everything you need to know before and after picking up your new pup — from the first days at home to laying the foundation for a successful hunting companion. In this episode, we cover finding the right bird dog, training priorities, and essential products. Links mentioned in the show: My Dog Training Patreon Puppy Podcast Choosing a Breeder Podcast Duck Dog 101 Podcast Living With a Bird Dog Podcast German Shorthaired Pointer Podcast

    49 min
  3. 16 | Ecollar Discussion - What, Why and How

    04/07/2025

    16 | Ecollar Discussion - What, Why and How

    In this episode, I dive into the basics of e-collars—what they are, why we use them, and, just as importantly, how we do and don’t use them. Whether you're new to the concept or just looking for a better understanding of modern training tools, this episode lays the groundwork for responsible and effective e-collar use. We break down common myths, discuss ethical training practices, and set the record straight on how e-collars can be used to strengthen communication and build trust—not fear.

    1 hr
  4. 15 | Chasing the Curve

    02/20/2025

    15 | Chasing the Curve

    As dog owners, we’re always trying to do better—training more patiently, providing the best care, and giving our dogs the happiest life possible. But sometimes, no matter how hard I try, I sometimes feel like I am coming up short. In this episode, I talk about the emotional side of dog ownership: the self-doubt, guilt, and the deep love that drives us to give our dogs the life they deserve. Being a great dog owner isn’t about how your dog's life looks on social media—it’s about showing up, trying, and loving them the best that we can.

    42 min
  5. 14 | Versatile Dogs with Brandon Whitfield

    12/18/2024

    14 | Versatile Dogs with Brandon Whitfield

    In this episode, I sit down with Brandon Whitfield, a software engineer and proficient amateur dog trainer, to discuss a variety of hunting dog topics. Brandon shares his experiences training versatile dogs, primarily German Shorthaired Pointers and his young German Wirehaired Pointer. We also dive into the unique challenges and rewards of duck hunting in icy conditions—how to prepare, what gear makes a difference, and how to ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable. Finally, we talk NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association), its role in advancing hunting dog training and breeding. Tune in for an episode packed with insight and inspiration! Horizon Retrievers Shorthairs & Shotguns

    1h 44m
  6. 13 | Delicious Ducks: Mastering the Art of Cooking Waterfowl with Maura Hennelly

    12/02/2024

    13 | Delicious Ducks: Mastering the Art of Cooking Waterfowl with Maura Hennelly

    In this episode, I am joined by my first guest, Maura Hennelly from Golden Oak Retrievers, to discuss the art of preparing and cooking wild game. Maura shares her wealth of knowledge on mastering the techniques that elevate the unique flavors of waterfowl that will transform your experience of enjoying duck. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced home cook, Maura’s tips on preparing, seasoning, and cooking methods will leave you inspired to bring the outdoors to your kitchen. Tune in for a flavorful conversation full of practical advice and delicious insights! Gold Oak Retrievers on Instagram wild + whole Peak to Plate Hank Shaw's Wild Food Recipes The Hunter Chef Cookbook Hunt, Gather, Cook Duck, Duck, Goose: The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Waterfowl The MeatEater: Fish and Game Cookbook

    1h 33m
  7. 12 | Living With A Bird Dog

    11/24/2024

    12 | Living With A Bird Dog

    Bird dogs are high-energy dogs that require physical and mental stimulation. In this episode, I discuss expectations and activities to do with your bird dog. Accidental Bird Dog - Hunt Test/Field Trial Guide Horizon Retrievers Shorthairs & Shotguns

    58 min
  8. 11 | Living with a German Shorthaired Pointer

    11/15/2024

    11 | Living with a German Shorthaired Pointer

    In this episode, I dive into what it's really like to share your home with a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP/shorthair) — an energetic, smart, but high-maintenance dog breed. Shorthairs are a lifestyle and living with one will change your perception of dog ownership. Grab your running shoes and tune in to discover the realistic expectations of life with a GSP. *For those of you who don't know, I refer to both of my dogs often in this podcast. Blitz is a German Shorthaired Pointer and Ember is a British Lab. My apologies that I wasn't clear about that! Hunting Dog Confidential Episode 4 The GSP on Project Upland Horizon Retrievers Shorthairs & Shotguns

    1h 22m
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Talk Birdie to Me Podcast, Bird Dog Banter with Emily! This is an informal but educational discussion on dog-related topics. We’ll cover everything from waterfowl and upland hunting, to training tips, and even some controversial topics from a dog trainer’s perspective. If you like what you hear, please be sure to subscribe and follow me on social media at Shorthairs & Shotguns and Horizon Retrievers. horizonretrievers.com shorthairsandshotguns.com

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