Where to Start

Step 1: Consultation with Carl
Bring your dog(s) in for a consultation to meet Carl. Together we'll assess our dog's needs and establish a tailored training plan.
We'll address all behavioural issues such as running in, pulling, barking, heel work, and more. Training your dog is the easy part-sometimes it's the owners who need more help!

Training Options

⚫1 on 1 sessions
⚫Small and Large Group Sessions
⚫Residential Training
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Puppy Training

Puppy Training: For ALL gundog breeds. Fun, Play, and Bonding. Let your puppy be a puppy! Our approach focuses on fun and bonding during the early stages. Bring your puppy in for a free assessment, and we’ll create a simple, pressure-free training plan. Our training involves teaching basic commands, fetching, and carrying a ball, while building confidence through play and plenty of positive praise. Start your puppy on the right path and enjoy the special journey together!

Foundation Stage Dog Training

Building Solid Skills In this stage, we focus on laying the groundwork for basic gundog training. Key skills include walking to heel, sitting, staying, recalling, and stopping to the whistle. As we progress, we introduce direction work, blind retrieves, obstacles,
sitting to shot, and marking. Training is tailored to gundog breeds, and there’s no set age—it’s all about when your dog is ready. Rushing is never the answer. Basic training should be enjoyed as part of the journey, ensuring your dog develops the necessary skills while having fun.

Advanced Gundog Training

This is the stage when all the hard work starts to pay off. If your basic training has been completed successfully, your dog is ready for the field and should be calm, steady and able to cope under pressure. At Kugae Gundogs we excel in our facilities and training grounds which
includes acres of sugar beet, woodland, lakes, ponds, streams and dykes. We will put your dog into a live shooting environment either by a stood day on the peg, picking up behind the guns, rough shooting/wildfowling or on one of our simulated gundog training days.

Group Gundog Training

We regularly hold group training sessions either with a small group (approx 6 handlers) or a larger group (up to 20 handlers). There are huge benefits to be gained from these kind of group sessions, for both the handlers and the dogs. They are very popular and can be incorporated with your one- to- one training schedule when the time is right. Check out our Blog section for an insight to some of our previous sessions and up and coming Events.
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  • What Makes a Great Gundog Trainer?

    Training a gundog requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of both canine behaviour and the specific demands of fieldwork. A great gundog trainer must possess a unique combination of knowledge, experience, and empathy to successfully bring out the best in a working dog. Whether you are training a Labrador for retrieving, a Spaniel for flushing, or a Pointer for setting, choosing the right trainer is crucial for achieving the best results.

    Key Characteristics of a Great Gundog Trainer

    1. Experience and Proven Track Record

    A great trainer should have extensive experience with various breeds and training levels, from young pups to fully trained field dogs. They should be able to demonstrate a history of successful training outcomes, whether through client testimonials, competition wins, or working dogs that perform reliably in the field.

    2. Patience and Understanding of Canine Behaviour

    Every dog learns at its own pace. A skilled trainer will understand canine psychology, knowing how to read body language and recognise when a dog is stressed, confused, or responding well. They must be patient, ensuring training remains a positive experience.

    3. Effective Communication

    Training a gundog is not just about working with the dog – the handler must also be trained. A great trainer should be able to clearly explain training techniques to owners, ensuring they understand how to continue training outside of lessons.

    4. Adaptability and Customised Training Approaches

    No two dogs are the same. A great trainer will adapt their methods to suit different breeds, temperaments, and learning styles. They should be flexible and able to modify their training plan based on the individual dog’s progress.

  • 5. Ethical and Humane Training Methods

    Modern gundog training should be based on ethical and humane principles. A great trainer avoids outdated or harsh methods and instead uses reward-based training, consistency, and clear commands to encourage a dog’s natural abilities.

    6. Strong Understanding of Fieldwork and Gundog Roles

    A skilled trainer must have a deep understanding of the specific role a gundog is expected to perform, whether it’s retrieving, flushing, or pointing. Their training should incorporate real-life hunting scenarios to prepare the dog for actual field conditions.

    7. Good Facilities and Realistic Training Environments

    A great gundog trainer should have access to appropriate training environments, such as fields, woodlands, water sources, and controlled game areas. Training in diverse conditions ensures a dog is well-prepared for any situation it may encounter in the field.

    8. Professionalism and Reliability

    A great trainer should be punctual, well-organised, and committed to helping both the dog and owner succeed. They should provide structured training plans, offer progress updates, and be available for ongoing support.

    9. Passion for Gundogs and Training

    A true gundog trainer is passionate about their work, genuinely enjoying the process of shaping a dog’s skills. Their enthusiasm is often reflected in their training sessions, making learning enjoyable for both dogs and owners.

    10. Willingness to Continue Learning

    The best trainers never stop learning. They keep up to date with new training techniques, canine psychology advancements, and field trial standards. They may also participate in professional development courses or attend gundog competitions to refine their methods.