Gun Dog Services
Bird Dog/ Retriever Training
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Started Gun Dog
This course is typically 2-3 months depending on the dog, some even going into 4 months. All dogs will start off with basic obedience. A started dog is one who will search for birds, point, breaks at the flush, acclimated to gun fire, and if they have a natural retrieve, this can be shaped. There is no force fetching in the started dog program. These are usually first year dogs.
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Broke Gun Dog
A broke gun dog is one that is steady to wing, shot, and fall, with a retrieve to hand. This is not a course you can put a time limit on. It takes as long as it takes, which varies from dog to dog. These are NOT first year dogs.
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Started Retriever Training
We lay heavy on obedience for the retriever dog. We will incorporate marks, retrieving to hand, water work, and field. No force fetch at this stage. We will also acclimate them to gun fire.
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Finished Retriever Training
We will continue obedience. Force fetch will slowly be introduced, if your dog needs it. We will keep your dog steady until released in a blind type hunting setting. Double/triple marks will be also introduced. Really it will be your preference and goals for your dog.
Handling: If you would like me to handle your dog in a test, there will be a $50 line fee for AKC Hunt tests, and a $100 line fee for NAVHDA. If a hotel is needed, my expenses (gas+hotel) will be split between owners, or covered by a single owner if there is only one dog being tested.
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Shed Dog Training
In the past few years, there's been a massive surge in the use of dogs for shed hunting. However, don't expect instant results. Training a dog to hunt for sheds isn't as simple as taking a leisurely stroll in the forest. Despite the increasing trend and the tempting images of antler piles on social media, it requires time and patience to train a shed hunting dog. So, if you're thinking about turning your retriever into a shed hunter, or considering getting a new pup for this purpose, be prepared for a commitment. We are here to help and walk you through the steps. Even if you're not an avid hunter, shed hunting takes hiking with your dog to a new level!
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