my pup will be be 9 months old come dove season, i figure she'll be plenty ready by that point. i just dont want to push her too soon. whats ya'lls thoughts on it?

Mine will be about 10 months when I take her on her 1st hunt -- Maybe younger than that

My pup was doing blinds and working off hand signals and what not so her first hunts were at 10 months.

Best dog I even had was on his first Wild Pheasant hunt at 6 weeks old and caught his first wounded rooster that day. I don't think you can start them to young but don't expect them to do much more than ride in your hunting jacket pocket.
I have had many dogs in the field at 12 weeks. Be sure you keep it short and sweet. All fun and all positive.
Duckdon

Took my girl everyday since she was 12 weeks most days she just ran around and played with her older sister. Her first offical hunt was at 5 months old doing snow geese in Nebraska she picked up 7 on her own. I would not let her chase the cripples at that age

If she is ready, take her. IF she is ready. Dont want to have to train out any bad habits. Expect to pay more attention to the dog than the hunting/shooting. Remember it is still pretty warm at that time of year, be careful and bring lots of water.

THats great advice about paying more attetion to the dog. In fact the my dogs first season I never took a gun I went everyday with my friends or family and strictly worked my dog. She is now going to turn 3 in October and had over 360 retrieves. I would rather see my dog perform well then always shoot.