Training Programs
It's about you and your dog.
This isn't about money — it's our passion. We live to train retrievers, 7 days a week. Every morning and evening, your dog gets the best work and the best care.
Main Programs
From foundation to finished gundog.
Most dogs start in the Basic program. We'll talk through where your dog is and where you want to be — then map the right path together.
The Basic Gundog
Sit. See the fall. Retrieve.
The foundation every waterfowl dog needs. Calm in the blind, steady to the shot, and reliable on every retrieve.
- Formal Obedience
- Force Fetch
- Collar Conditioning
- Steady to Shot
- Retrieving Dead & Alive Birds
- Marking Singles & Simple Doubles
Duration
5–6 months
Puppies accepted from 6 months
Intermediate Hunting Dog
Sharper control. Smarter dog.
Build on the basics with hand signals, increased biddability, and the polish that turns a good retriever into a real partner.
- All Basic Gundog Skills
- Hand Signal Control
- Increased Biddability
- Multiple Marks
- Diversion Drills
Duration
8–12 months
Puppies accepted from 6 months
Advanced Gundog Program
Peak field performance.
For dogs ready to run long blinds, mark complex falls, and perform at the highest level — season after season.
- Running Blinds 300+ Yards
- Expert Marking on Any Fall
- High-Level Retrieving Skills
- Cast Refinement
- Cold Water Conditioning
Duration
12+ months
Puppies accepted from 6 months
Not sure which program fits?
That's the most common question we get — and the best one. A 5-minute phone conversation usually settles it.
Common Questions
Answers before you call.
What age should my dog start gundog training?
Most dogs start formal training around 6 months old, once they have their adult teeth. Before that, focus on socialization, basic obedience, and building retrieving desire. If your pup is older, no problem — we train started and finished dogs of all ages.
How long does waterfowl gundog training take?
Our Basic Gundog program runs 5 to 6 months, the Intermediate Hunting Dog program 8 to 12 months, and the Advanced Gundog program 12 months or more. The right length depends on your dog and what you want out of the season — we map that together on the first call.
Is this a board-and-train program?
Yes. Your dog lives at our kennel in Fosters, Alabama in clean, climate-controlled runs with structured rest, daily yard time, and training every morning and evening, 7 days a week. We welcome visits — call ahead and come walk the grounds.
What breeds do you train?
We specialize in retrievers for waterfowl work — Labs, Goldens, and Chesapeakes make up most of the kennel — but we evaluate any breed with retrieving drive. Call us and tell us about your dog.
How much does gundog training cost?
Pricing depends on the program and where your dog is starting from. Call 205-233-2325 for current program pricing — a short conversation about your dog gets you an exact number.
Where are you located, and can I visit before enrolling?
We are in Fosters, Alabama, an easy drive from Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, and we train dogs from across the Southeast. Tours are welcome by appointment — please call first and we will show you the kennel, the fields, and the water your dog will train on.
What should I bring when I drop off my dog?
Bring your dog on their regular food, proof of current vaccinations, and any medications they take. We will handle the rest — training gear, birds, and daily care are all part of the program.
Ready When You Are
Start your dog's training today.
Spots fill quickly — especially before the season. A quick call gets the conversation started.