Hello, my name is Doug Moore and I would like to welcome you to Straightline Retrievers, a small retriever training kennel located in Angier NC.
I have been training Labrador retrievers for over 10 years specializing in Gun Dog training. In 2006 I started training for and competing in AKC/UKC hunt tests and AKC Field trials. We offer several different training programs to accommodate everyone from dedicated waterfowlers to someone interested in competing in hunt tests and field trials. If you should have any questions or comments please give me a call or send me an e-mail.
PUPPY HEAD START
At about 10 weeks of age we begin Puppy Head Start which is like a pre-school to formal training. In this program the pup is introduced to birds, boats, duck blinds, distant gunfire, water, basic obedience commands as well as being socialized around other dogs and people. During this time the pup is thrown marks on land and water with an emphasis on keeping the retrieving fun and exciting. This program is $400.00 per month.
OBEDIENCE TRAINING
The foundation of any good dog begins with obedience. Obedience training is done daily with every dog regardless of age or training experience. After completing the obedience program the dog should walk steadily at heel, sit and here on command, stay and kennel. A normal obedience program should take 1-2 months but could vary depending on dog’s age and prior training. This program is $500.00 per month.
BASIC RETRIEVER/GUN DOG TRAINING
This program is directed to those who want a reliable hunting partner capable of performing in your typical waterfowling environment. Dogs are exposed to all types of hunting situations including decoys, duck blinds, boats, dog stands and layout blinds. They will see multiple gun shots and retrieve birds on land and water. Steadiness and marking are two essential skills needed for a retriever and a lot of emphasis is placed in these two areas. Dogs are taught to deliver birds to hand and hold until the drop command is given. In this program dogs are introduced to whistle commands for sit and come which are a necessity when teaching a dog to handle. Basic handling skills are introduced which gives the dog the ability to perform simple blinds on land and water. After completing this program you will have a steady dog with the ability to retrieve birds on land and water and run simple blinds on land and water. Our Basic Retriever/Gun Dog program is 6-8 months depending on dog’s age and prior training. This program is $500.00 per month.
ADVANCED RETRIEVER/HUNT TEST TRAINING
For those interested in training and competing at this level we will give an evaluation after basic training and discuss your goals and plans for your dog. After the basic retriever program the dog should easily pass Junior Hunter (JH) or Started (SHR) tests and most are successful at the Senior Hunter (SH) and Seasoned (HR) level. To compete at the Master Hunter (MH) and Finished (HRCH) levels you will need an above average dog capable of handling many factors such as poison birds, diversions, complex multiple marks and technical blinds. To be competitive at this level most dogs require an additional 6-8 months training after the basics program. However some dogs learn a lot quicker and some are a lot slower. We keep the customer informed with monthly progress and an overall evaluation to determine timelines.
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