Elite handling skills and blind retrieves for serious hunting dogs
Advanced retriever training builds upon foundation skills to create a truly exceptional hunting dog. This program teaches handling, blind retrieves, and the advanced control needed for difficult hunting situations or field trial competition.
Dogs learn to take direction from their handler, running blind retrieves to birds they didn't see fall and navigating complex terrain on command. This creates a versatile hunting partner capable of handling any situation in the field.
Elite-level training for dogs ready to perform at the highest level
Precise directional control with whistle stops and hand signals for back, over, and angle casts.
Running straight lines to unseen birds, navigating obstacles on command.
Complex marking tests, memory birds, and running precise lines to distant objectives.
Hunt test and field trial preparation for dogs and handlers who want to compete.
An advanced trained dog dramatically increases hunting success. When a duck falls in heavy cover or across water where you didn't see it land, an advanced dog can be handled to the area and work it out. This means more birds in the bag and fewer lost cripples.
The control and steadiness developed through advanced training makes hunting more enjoyable and safer. Your dog will remain steady through shooting, wait for commands, and work precisely when sent – eliminating the chaos of an uncontrolled dog.
For those interested in field trials or hunt tests, advanced training provides the foundation for competition. Many of our advanced trained dogs go on to earn AKC hunt test titles or compete successfully in retriever trials.
Dogs must complete basic retriever training or demonstrate equivalent skills. They should be reliable on marked retrieves, steady, and responsive to basic handling before entering this program.
Upon completion, your dog will handle reliably to blind retrieves on land and water, run complex marking tests, and demonstrate the control and precision needed for serious hunting or entry-level field trial work.
Advanced skills require regular practice to maintain. We provide guidance for continuing your dog's development and can continue working with competition dogs throughout their careers.
Contact us to discuss advanced retriever training and take your dog's performance to the next level.
