My speciality is training gun dogs and their handlers. However I can also offer pet dog training and puppy training.

My aim is to train good gun dogs that are capable of doing the jobs required of them in the shooting field, or eligible for competition. Depending on the breed of dog and the requirements of the handler I train dogs for:

• Beating
• Picking up
• Rough shooting
• Pet dogs

Facilities
Our regular training ground comprises of over 6 acres with access to more below. The training environments are:

• Rabbit Pen
• Hunting Grounds
• Jumping Alley
• Livestock Paddocks

I also provide clay pigeons, live pigeons, the sound of gunfire (starting pistol etc.), artificial bolting rabbits and other means to prepare the dogs and handlers for work. I organise visits to rivers and lakes during the summer to accustom dogs to water work.

Classes
I offer a range of training classes for you to get exactly what you want for your gun dog including;

• Group training classes
• One to one
• Home visits

In the training of a Gundog your only guide may be previous experience and/or a book. You can hit a snag that doesn’t seem to be covered or solved with your current guide. A one to one with me costs £40.00 and may be all you need to get back on track.

Take a look at my dog training classes page or get in touch if you have any requirements not covered here.

FAQ’s
Do you only train Gundogs?
No. Any Gundog needs to learn basic obedience skills first. These are not breed specific. I have experience of training most breeds.

Can I have a Gundog and a Petdog?
Yes. A lot of excellent dogs live with the family. There does need to be some house rules. If you were to train your dog first as a Gundog then you would have a pet still, for life.

Can I teach an old dog new tricks?
Yes. Generally past the age of about 4 years dogs require more work than youngsters would, but certainly they can learn new things. A dog that has been chasing or hunting without control for a long period can be altered, but a highly trained Gundog is not likely.

Should I take my young dog on a lead to a shoot to see what he needs to do?
No. He/She will link the excitement of the occasion with gamescent and gunfire and remember. This will make things harder for you when you need a calm obedient trained dog in that same environment later on.

At what age should I introduce the sound of gunfire?
Certainly not before six months. You damage the inner ear at a very young age.You certainly risk making a youngster afraid of gunfire. Gently does it. At a distance at first. If you aren’t sure please speak to me.

I have never been on a shoot. How can I train a Gundog?
I can train a Gundog to a very high standard without going near a shoot. It is in fact what I do with my working dogs. I recommend that you attend a shoot without a dog to distract you and see what it’s all about. I have been able to arrange this for a limited number of people, or put you in touch with someone in your area.

Do you use food treats?
Sometimes to help get a specific idea to a dog. I would praise as well, with a view to reducing food treats. Beware of using food to encourage a potential Gundog to retrieve. It will most likely learn to drop the retrieve to get the food.

Where are you?
About midway between Tunbridge Wells and Hastings, say 20 minutes from either town.

Do you do home visits?
Yes. Please contact me for further information.