Hunting Dog Program – Frequently Asked Questions

What is your overall training philosophy?

Our hunting programs are built around developing capable, confident, cooperative hunting dogs through clear structure, ethical exposure, and consistent handling.

We prioritize:

  • Proper developmental progression

  • Calm, steady behavior around birds and gunfire

  • Reliable obedience that supports real hunting

  • A strong working partnership between dog and handler

Our approach aligns closely with the principles promoted by North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA)—focusing on versatility, cooperation, and sound temperament rather than rushing dogs through milestones.

Are these programs offered in Florida?

Yes. All programs are based in Florida and designed to work within Florida’s climate, terrain, and seasonal constraints.

That said, our training is intentionally structured to prepare dogs for travel and hunting outside Florida, including northern and Midwestern states.

Can these programs prepare my dog for pheasant hunting in northern states?

Yes. While pheasant hunting is not native to Florida, the skills required for successful upland hunting are highly transferable.

We emphasize:

  • Steadiness to birds and gunfire

  • Controlled prey drive

  • Reliable recall and cooperative handling

  • Delivery to hand

  • Calm behavior before and after the shot

Dogs trained with these fundamentals are well prepared to adapt to new birds, terrain, and environments encountered during pheasant hunts in northern states.

Do you offer board & train programs?

No. All hunting programs are private lesson–based only.

We do not offer board & train for hunting dogs.

Why do you require owner-handled training?

We believe the hunter must be actively involved in handling and training their dog.

A hunting dog does not work for a trainer in the field—they work for their handler.

Private lessons allow us to:

  • Develop the dog and handler as a team

  • Teach proper timing, handling, and decision-making

  • Build consistency between training and real hunts

  • Avoid confusion or reliance on a third party

This results in more reliable performance and fewer setbacks once hunting season begins.

What are the benefits of private lessons for hunting dogs?

Private lessons ensure:

  • Clear communication between dog and handler

  • Better cooperation under pressure

  • Greater confidence in real hunting scenarios

  • Long-term success beyond the training field

Our goal is not just a trained dog—it is a capable hunting partnership.

Are these programs suitable for first-time hunting dog owners?

Yes, provided the owner is willing to participate and learn.

Owner education is a core component of our programs and includes:

  • Understanding drive, arousal, and stress

  • Proper exposure to birds and gunfire

  • Setting realistic, age-appropriate expectations

  • Avoiding common mistakes that hinder development

These programs are active and hands-on by design.

What breeds do you accept?

We work with NAVHDA-accepted versatile and retriever hunting breeds, including but not limited to:

  • Labrador Retriever

  • Golden Retriever

  • German Shorthaired Pointer

  • German Wirehaired Pointer

  • Deutsch-Drahthaar

  • Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

  • Vizsla

  • Weimaraner

  • Brittany

  • Pudelpointer

  • Small & Large Munsterlander

  • Spinone Italiano

If you have a hunting-bred dog not listed above, inquiries are welcome. Each dog is evaluated individually.

Do you work with puppies and young dogs?

Yes. We offer puppy and young dog programs (under 12 months) focused on proper early development rather than finished behaviors.

These programs emphasize:

  • Age-appropriate live bird exposure

  • Gradual blank gunfire conditioning

  • Basic obedience foundations

  • Kennel manners and place commands

  • Reward and marker conditioning

The goal is confidence, neutrality, and correct habits, not pressure or forced work.

Are live birds and gunfire used?

Yes—only when appropriate and only when the dog is ready.

  • Puppies and young dogs are introduced gradually

  • Advanced dogs work with live birds and blank gunfire

  • No flooding, rushing, or suppression

All exposure is ethical, controlled, and based on the dog’s maturity and temperament.

Do you offer hunt test or trial preparation?

Yes, as an optional add-on for suitable dogs in advanced programs.

Trial preparation focuses on:

  • Polishing performance to test standards

  • Advanced steadiness and handling

  • Handler strategy and expectations

Trial prep is not included in foundational programs and is offered only when appropriate for the dog and handler.

How do I know which program is right for my dog?

Program placement is determined by:

  • Age and developmental stage

  • Training history

  • Temperament and drive

  • Hunting goals

If you are unsure where to start, we will guide you toward the most appropriate program.

What if my dog progresses more slowly than expected?

That is normal.

Dogs develop at different rates. Our programs are designed to:

  • Respect the individual dog

  • Build confidence and clarity

  • Avoid pushing dogs before they are ready

Progression is earned, not rushed.

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