Training Dogs
The training of dogs on live wild animals is considered hunting and is unlawful during the closed season except as noted below.
•You must have a valid hunting license while training dogs on live wild animals.
•You may train dogs during daylight hours on rabbits and non-migratory game birds on private lands. Participants shall have no weapons other than starter pistols in their possession and no wild animals shall be taken. Weapons may be in possession when training dogs on captive raised and properly marked mallards and pigeons so that they may be immediately shot or recovered, except on Sunday.
•You may train dogs on National Forest or Department-owned lands only during authorized training seasons that specifically permit these activities.
•You may train dogs on National Forest or Department-owned lands only during authorized training seasons that specifically permit these activities.
•You may train dogs on quail on designated portions of the Amelia Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Chester F. Phelps WMA, Chickahominy WMA and Dick Cross WMAfrom September 1 to the day prior to the opening date of the quail hunting season, both dates inclusive. No weapons other than starter pistols may be in possession, and pen-raised birds may not be released.
•Pen-raised quail may be released at any time on private land with landowner permission. However, except on hunting (shooting) preserves, birds can only be shot during the regular quail season. Regular bag limits apply.
•You may train dogs during daylight hours on rabbits and non-migratory game birds on the Weston WMAfrom September 1 thru March 31, both dates inclusive. Participants in this dog training season shall have no weapons other than starter pistols in their possession, shall not release pen-raised birds, and must comply with all regulations and laws pertaining to hunting. No game shall be taken