Finding a Trainer

We recommend balanced trainers or high standards positive trainers with competitive experience who will help you teach your dog to have good manners, not just use crutches like front clip harnesses, Gentle Leaders or Haltis to physically restrict the dog (which can have orthopedic consequences). Your puppy should be able to walk on a loose lead wearing a flat buckle collar with effective training. We also do not recommend trainers who only rely on corrections. We have to teach before we enforce standards. Early, effective training is vital with intelligent, high drive dogs.

Below are some trainers/facilities we feel comfortable recommending.

Obedience/TrickDog/Agility/Scentwork:

Retriever Fieldwork/Gundog Training:

  • Shelly Blom, Sterre Kennels--group classes, private lessons, and limited board and train; CKC/AKC hunt tests

  • Sandie Bond, Dovetail Kennels--board and train program; CKC/AKC hunt tests; Courtland ON summer/ Newbern, Alabama winter https://www.facebook.com/DovetailKennels

  • Brent Samis, SamisGunn Retrievers--board and train--Washago ON 705-689-5295 | gunnrs@rogers.com

  • Greg Montgomery, Erie Shores Retrievers--board and train; focuses on HRC competition--Cottam ON https://www.facebook.com/ErieShoreRetrievers