Our Training Philosophy

Many years of experience in both hunting and competitive events have helped me to develop a clear picture of the attributes a successful bird dog should possess. What are some of these attributes?  Key ones are:

• Intelligence  
• Breed specific natural ability traits
• Conformation
• Nose
• Breath-taking style & intensity
• The appropriate gait
• Stamina & a relentless work ethic

I have had the pleasure of developing many dogs that display these attributes. In return, they have contributed to two key assets - experience and my reputation.

The techniques I employ today are a culmination of practices past and present because dogs, much like people, are unique. It only follows that the strategies employed to bring out the best in any dog may in fact be, unique to that dog.  My processes for successful dog training revolve around conning the dog to believe that the situations that I present before him are the only choices he has or at least, knows.  That means limiting the lessons he learns away from me on his own - lessons that can require fixing later on.  As the dog grows with my lessons, he reaps the rewards of being a very capable companion afield. This is another reason why I believe dogs should embark on their training sooner rather than later - before they acquire a number of undesireable experiences/habits.

Note: Dog training is a journey, not a destination.  I am always open to improvements, better methods, salient discoveries even after 40+ years!

I'd like to take this opportunity to share with you a critical aspect of developing a classy reliable bird dog. The best breeding combined with the best training, cannot displace experience afield. A well trained dog needs to develop the wisdom/savy that comes from encounters with wild birds. Only then, can their performance truly be complete.