Advanced Retriever Training
If your dog has mastered the basics and you’re ready to push their potential, this program bridges the gap between a reliable hunting companion and a polished, finished retriever. We advance marking skills for doubles and triples while introducing and refining blind retrieves across land and water. As training progresses, each concept builds in difficulty until your dog confidently executes complex marks and blinds—the level of performance required to pursue HRCH and MH titles.
Build on the Basics.
Level Up Your Dog.
Who This Program is For
Dogs that have completed Gun Dog Basics
Teams aiming for stronger hunting performance and/or HRC/AKC hunt tests titles
Owners who want a dog with advanced marking abilities, sharper handling, and reliable blind retrieves
What Your Dog Will Learn
Transitions Phase (intermediate):
Intermediate Marking Concepts: Basic cheating singles, simple re-entries, basic doubles, triples intro, and diversions
Intro to Blinds: Teaching whistle sit and directional casting (hand-signals) in the “yard” (t-field)
Basic Pattern Blinds: Improving initial lines and angle casting through a repeat (pattern) blind application
Control & Steadiness: Increased emphasis on honoring and general impulse control
Advanced Phase (finished & Master level):
Advanced Marking Concepts: Complex cheating singles, advanced re-entries, doubles, and triples on land and water - hidden/retired gun concepts
Advanced Blinds: Teaching land/water “cold blind” concepts: shorelines, points, channels, re-entries, keyholes, and poison birds
Factors: Increased emphasis on addressing factors: wind, water, cover, terrain, suction
Hunt Test Scenarios: HRC & AKC simulated test set-ups to prepare dogs mentally & physically for competition of the highest caliber
Program Outcomes
Upon completion, expect a dog that can:
Mark and retrieve doubles and triples on land and water
Run challenging blinds with responsive whistle sits and accurate casts
Hold steady, honor other dogs, and work calmly from boat, pit, or marsh stand
Perform at a Finished/Master level suitable to earn HRCH and/or MH titles
Prepare for higher caliber events such as the HRC Grand and/or AKC Master National
Titles aren’t guaranteed—but this curriculum and our progression set your team up to compete successfully and hunt confidently.
Have questions about our offerings?
be sure to check out our FAQ page!
