If working with a well-bred dog, handling is key. Listening to basic commands, loading up, and just the basics. Dog handling makes a good tree dog even more fun. With a well-bred dog woods time is everything. Get ready to wear out some boot leather ! A good bred squirrel dog will do its job if exposed to the game. Be patient, sometimes a great dog may be a late starter. I am careful about over-exposure to caged game but will use it some. I like to play with pups using a pole with a string and a squirrel tail and foot tied to the end. Its bred into the dog, but you need to let it know that your interested in squirrels too ! I like short hunts in the beginning and as they mature hunt longer and harder. Keep it fun ! The dog knows if your frustrated !