Our training program will take your dog to the next level and beyond. We will train your Labrador Retriever for waterfowl hunting!

AKS Kennels offers a training program for all levels and abilities for your retriever. We work with your dog's natural ability and desire to reach their maximum potential along with your goals. A retriever should be excited about the retrieving task but also be obedient in the field. We work with you to build your own handling and communication skills to improve trust and respect to work as a team.

We begin formal training when their adult canine teeth are present (usually around age 6 months). Some dogs have come for training around 7-8 months and older. You are encouraged to call ahead of your anticipated date to assure space availability.

****ALL DOGS DO NOT LEARN AT THE SAME RATE, YOUR DOG MAY TAKE MORE TIME DEPENDING ON WORK ATTITUDE, DESIRE, AGE AND TRAINABILITY ETC.****

In this program, the foundation skills are taught. Voice obedience commands of sit, heel, here and kennel are taught. These commands will be reinforced with the Electronic Collar. The trained retrieve will also be taught, this ensures delivery to hand. They will be introduced to gunfire, birds, water, decoys, etc. Time frame is approximately 4-6 months. With completion of this program, your retriever would be able to compete in AKC Junior Hunt Tests.

This program is for the person who wants his/her dog to be capable of running basic blind retrieves with the help of the whistle and hand signals. Retrievers must have successfully complete the basic retriever training program. Time frame is approximately 2-4 months after completion of basic retriever training. With completion of this program, your retriever would be able to compete in AKC Senior Hunt Tests.

This program for the enthusiast who wants a fine-tuned finished gun dog or is interested in running Advanced Hunt Tests. AKS Kennels currently campaigns in AKC Hunt Tests. Your retriever will be highly tuned at the end of this program and able to run AKC Master Hunt Tests. Time frame is approximately 6-8 months after completion of Handling Training.

This program is for retrievers with previous training and field experience, but needs those skills sharpened prior to the upcoming hunting season. This program helps with getting your retriever back in shape, hand deliver, steadiness, marking and any other commands you have wish to have polished up. Time frame is approximately 1-2 months.

A One-on-One session allows time where you and your dog can come meet us. We will work with you and your dog for evaluation of future training possibilities or problem solving sessions.

Please e-mail or call us to discuss which training option may be best for you and your dog.