Kirk McConnor, owner and trainer, has the experience and skill to train your pointing dog for hunting, hunt tests, or walking field trials.

Using positive, low-sress training techniques, we will bring out, enhance, and refine all of your dog's natural instincts and ability to produce a pointing dog that will make you proud. Most dogs will complete the training in 3 to 4 months, depending on your dog's rate of learning and your goals. The basic program consists of:

1. Yard Work (Heel, Whoa, and Come)
2. Field search and pattern development
3. Handling and response to whistle signals
4. Pointing and manners on game
5. Backing (if desired)
6. *Retrieving (if desired)

We have 29 acres of fields and woods at the kennel, as well as access to the other properties, so your dog will experience different covers, as well as the opportunity to encounter wild birds during training sessions.

Kirk's approach to training is tailored to each dog as an individual and produces finished dogs that retain all of their natural deisre and style on game. He will take the time to understand your goals for your dog and will work steadily toward those goals. Owners are encouraged to visit periodically to see their dog's progress and gain an understanding of the training that their dog is receiving. At the conclusion of the training program, owners will have a private demonstration of their dog in action, and receive instruction in handling their trained bird dog, if desired.

In addition to the training, dogs will take part in a structured conditioning program in order to develop their strength and stamina.

*A word on retrieving: If you desire your bird dog to retrieve, whether for hunting, hunt tests, or retrieving stakes, Kirk will formally train your dog to do so through a conscientious and effective program. Your bird dog will retrieve with the same manners as a Retriever or Versatile Hunting Dog, which means he will promptly (and happily) go out, pick up, and return to your side in a sitting position, and hold the game until commanded to give it to you. In short, your dog will be a reliable retriever under any condition. If you are competing with your dog, you will not lose a qualifyng score or a placement due to retrieving problems. When hunting with your dog, you will be confident that all game will be recovered. Retrieving training takes approximately one month, and is started after your dog has completed its basic pointing dog training.