Services:

Gundog Training

The Gundog Training program is designed to produce a quality hunting companion. There are several different levels of a complete Gundog Training program. We realize that every dog is different and will adjust to a training program at varying speeds based on ability and prior training experiences. Therefore, the program lengths are meant to be a basic guideline.

Basic Gundog - 3-4 months
This program is designed to expose a young or inexperienced retriever to most of the scenarios it may experience during hunting season. This training program will introduce the pup to simulated hunting conditions, guns, boats, decoys, tree stands, and several types of birds (both dead and alive).

At the completion of this program, your dog will be proficient in basic obedience, trained retrieve (aka. "force fetch" - how to hold a bird properly without hardmouth), and steadiness. A dog at the completion of this program should be able to pass an AKC "Junior Hunter" test.

Intermediate Gundog - 3-4 months
This program is designed to produce a retriever companion that is capable of handling 90% of the hunting situations that will arise during a normal hunting season. In addition to the items included in the Basic Gundog package above, this program includes introduction to multiple marking and basic blind handling situations.

The concepts introduced in this program include "force to pile", "T" drill, "swim-by", and marking multiple birds down. At the completion of this program, a dog should be ready to participate in AKC "Senior" hunting tests.

Advanced Gundog - 4-6 months
This program is intended for those people who desire a hunting companion at the top echelon and often have a desire to campaign their retriever in hunt test organizations. In addition to the instruction in the "Intermediate Gundog" package, these dogs are exposed to virtually every conceivable training situtation and concept imaginable.

Dogs who complete this program are often qualified to compete in Hunt Tests at the National level, not to mention being the envy of every other hunter in your blind.

Summer Tune-Up - 1-3 months
This program is intended for the retriever who has previous field experience, but needs work in order to stay sharp for the upcoming hunting season. Marking & steadiness are emphasized, but blind work can be included for those dogs who are already handling.

Pat McHale
5572 CR 359
Navasota, Tx 77868
 		936-894-1905
Ridgewoodkennel@peoplepc.com