"Hi, I have a six-month-old working cocker spaniel (Tiegan) who has decided that her mission in life is to chase crows, gulls, pigeons and any other bird that rests on the ground then takes off when she gets near enough.  I know this is not a good thing for a gundog to do and I need to get her steady, but how do I stop her? I am a complete beginner! Thanks, Kirsty."

H&C expert Howard Kirby of Mullenscote Dogs replies: "Dear Kirsty, thank you for your question. While Tiegan is still only young the first thing you need to do is stop the chasing. Get her on a lead or long line, try to take her somewhere that has the minimum of wildlife distractions. You will need to start working on her obedience while encouraging her to engage in play with you rather than going off chasing things.

The best thing you could do is to visit a professional gundog trainer, preferably sooner rather than later. It's so important that you nip the chasing in the bud as this will almost certainly become a major problem. Make sure you watch our H&C How To series of gundog training tips - episode one concentrates on steadiness. Read, research on the internet, but do get help with your energetic young cocker as soon as possible. Keep us informed with how you are getting on and we will do our best to keep offering you our advice. Keep training! Howard."