Training Programs

We encourage owner invlovment and welcome your presence during training sessions. Owners may visit our facilities and may chose to bring their dog home for a visit during their training period.

The Making of a Hunting Companion:
4-Step, 4-Month program

Through Jim Rice's unique 4-step program, your dog will progress along a path towards becomming a broke dog and true hunting companion, able to remain steady to wing and shot. Your dog can then be hunted on wild birds, in competition, or at your favorite hunt club.

Step 1: Grammar School

A solid foundation of basic obedience, handling, and an introduction to birds will start your dog off right. The dog is taken through the basic handling, verbal and whistle commands, is introduced to gun fire, but remains on a check cord. The goal of this step is to bring out the dog's natural instincts, style, and intensity. Pigeons are used to begin training, but the dog will later hunt quail or chukar. Pheasants are avaiable on premisis and can be used by request.

Step 2: Junior High

Dogs are taught the basics of quartering, pointing and focusing on birds and the "Whoa" command. Whistle commands are used, as well as theTri-tronics training collar.

Step 3: High School

The refinement of junior high is demanded. The dog is running on his own with whistle, voice and electronic collar commands from handler. The dog must find, point and hold point until the bird is flushed.

Step 4: College Degree

The dog is taught to find, hold a point until the bird is flushed, shot and told to fetch... The refinement of your dog is where he is steady to wing and shot is our ultimate goal.

Retrieving:

We also offer Force Breaking to Retrieve, if your dog does not retrieve naturally, or even if your dog is a little lazy on his or her retrieve.

Competition Training:

We offer more advanced training with AKC field trials and Hunt Test competitions as the focus. Skills include running in braces, backing and honoring point.

Private lessons:

Private lessons also available.

Seminars:

Weekend hunting seminars are offered several times per year.

Snake Avoidance Training:

Avert dog dangers with snake-alert clinics: Sporting dogs can avoid rattlesnakes with the proper training. During the training session, all snakes are either muzzled or defanged to protect the dog, but they present a very realistic in-the-field appearance when they are coiled up tight, tails buzzing and ready to strike out at any intruder. The class could save the life of your best hunting partner — and also keep you alerted in the field when there is a buzztail close by.

Sessions are held year round. Please inquire for times and dates.