Specialising in adolescence and gundog breeds
4-Week Structured Coaching
This is a one-on-one version of my popular Gundog Skills course, delivered privately over four sessions with motivational homework and measurable outcome goals between each session.
We follow a clear programme, but sessions are flexible and responsive. That means we can:
- Progress faster where your dog excels
- Slow down and build confidence where needed
- Provide detailed handling coaching tailored to you
Over the programme, we focus on developing:
- Loose lead walking and heelwork with increasing distance
- Reliable whistle recall
- Steadiness and impulse control
- Fun, structured retrieve work
- Focus and engagement
The goal is not to create a competition-level working gundog. The goal is to build skills you can use in real life — on walks, in fields, around distractions — while meeting your dog’s innate needs ... and most importantly, to have fun with your dog!
The Programme Outline
Session One - Foundation & Engagement
Establishing clear communication through a marker system, building focus on the handler, and introducing heelwork foundations and positional skills.
We prioritise clarity, motivation and calmness before adding complexity.
Session Two - Communication at Distance
Developing steadiness and impulse control, and introducing a whistle recall cue.
We begin to build reliability and responsiveness as distance gradually increases.
Session Three - Building Drive & Retrieve Skills
Building enthusiasm for retrieve work while maintaining engagement.
We develop motivation for the dummy and encourage a confident return.
Session Four - Skill Integration & Progression
Increasing distance in heelwork and sit/stay, strengthening whistle recall at greater range, and guiding retrieve work towards controlled hand delivery.
We begin combining skills into short, structured sequences to build fluency and teamwork.
Why Gundog Training Works
Spaniels, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Pointers and other gundog breeds were developed to:
- Hunt using their nose
- Work in partnership with a handler
- Retrieve and carry
- Maintain focus over distance
When those instincts are not given an outlet, you may see:
- Pulling on the lead
- Poor impulse control
- Unreliable recall
- Chasing wildlife
- Stealing items and running off
- Over-arousal or restlessness
Gundog training channels those natural behaviours into structured exercises that build responsiveness, impulse control and engagement — without harsh methods or rigid obedience.
It is purposeful work that feels right to your dog and it is not just for traditional gundog breeds — any dog who enjoys using their nose, retrieving or working closely with their human can benefit.
Training should be fun for both ends of the lead...
What You Won’t Find Here
What You Won’t Find Here
What You Won’t Find Here
✖️You won’t find harsh corrections, lead yanking or outdated dominance-based approaches.
✖️You won’t be told to suppress your dog’s instincts or shut down their enthusiasm.
✖️And you certainly won’t be forced into rigid methods that don’t feel right for you or your dog.
What You Will Find
What You Won’t Find Here
What You Won’t Find Here
✔️You will find structured, science-led training that works with your dog’s natural drives — not against them.
✔️You will find clear guidance, calm coaching and realistic expectations.
✔️You will find fun, purposeful sessions that leave you smiling and your dog heading home with a waggy tail
Where It Happens
All 1:1 gundog training takes place at my private training field in Stoke Golding, Leicestershire – just a short drive from Hinckley, Burbage, and Nuneaton. With no random off-lead dogs, no park distractions, and plenty of space, it’s the perfect spot to practise recalls, retrieve games and focus work safely.
Prefer a group class?
If you’d rather train alongside others, or want to build on your 1:1 sessions with real-life distractions, check out our Gundog Skills Course – a fun, supportive group class with a strong foundation in focus, recall, and heelwork.
(Not sure which is right for you? Just get in touch and I’ll help you choose!)
Are you struggling with your teenage dog?
I promise you, you're not alone!
For top tips on how to navigate this phase with your dog, sign up for our FREE eBook!