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Retrieving Competition Most dogs we train to the "Gun Dog" level are well qualified to run the first level of hunting tests and, depending on marking prowess, they are ready to run the middle level after a moderate amount of work on handling. The advanced level of hunting tests (Master Hunter/GMHR/HRCH), and all stakes in field trials, however, require considerably more work. Dogs must learn to do longer blind retrieves and to be so proficient that they rarely miss a cast even under demanding conditions. They must learn to mark and remember three or even four birds plus becoming familiar with a number of tricky marking combinations, delayed triples and quads, out-of-order throws, poison birds, and other challenging set-ups. We ordinarily run a schedule of twelve to fifteen trials per year in Virginia, North and South Carolina. We use our home kennel as a base so the dogs do not have to live in the truck for weeks on the road. This schedule is consistent with developing good trial attitudes and avoids some problems that may crop up with excessive campaigning. We may take a road trip if we feel it is appropriate for the dogs we are training at a given time, but none is planned for 2008. Many of our clients prefer to handle their own dogs, particularly in the hunt tests. We encourage this, and work with owners and their dogs to teach them to handle effectively. Training at this level is mostly field work, practicing marks and blinds, gradually building up a dog's understanding of important concepts and his proficiency in the necessary routines. The fastest learners might require a total of twelve to eighteen months of training to be ready to run either the Master Hunter or the Derby. The Qualifying and advanced stakes (Open and Amateur) take longer. While some genius dogs are competitive in advanced stakes prior to the age of two, many exceptionally talented dogs may not be ready to enter until age three or four. If you are interested in having us train and/or handle your dog in competition, please email or call us at (910) 245-2603. To learn more about individualized instruction in handling and training, please visit our owner training page.