Beginner Gundog Training

Beginner Gundog comprises two levels, each lasting 6 weeks:

•Foundation Course: our entry-level course for all gundog breeds over 4 months of age

•Improver Course: builds on the skills from the Foundation Course, taking them to a higher level

Dogs should be comfortable around other dogs and able to settle shortly after the session begins. While some initial excitement is normal, this course is not suitable for dogs who struggle to cope in a group environment due to anxiety, frustration, persistent barking, or reactivity towards other dogs.

If you think your dog may become frustrated or uncontrollably excited in a group of other people and dogs, we recommend Individual Training instead.

Who Is This Course For?

Gundog training at Acer differs from general dog training classes, which are designed for all breeds.

If you are an owner of a retriever, spaniel, or pointer breed, you will know that these dogs need a little bit more.

A lot of general pet dog trainers, especially newly qualified ones, are not experienced in meeting the needs of gundogs, particularly those from working lines. We often have these dogs referred to us by other trainers when they have run out of ideas and don’t know how to harness their boundless energy.

We provide training specifically designed for gundog breeds and suitable for both family pet dogs as well as working gundogs.

Our 7 course levels will teach you how to incorporate your dog’s natural desires to chase and hunt into your regular walks. Without proper training, these instincts can become a real problem for untrained gundog owners.

Over the 6 weeks of each course, you’ll learn not to fear these instincts but to harness them.

We only use modern, science-backed, ethical training methods based on rewards to motivate your dog. None of the traditional gundog training methods involving fear, punishment, or the use of force to make dogs comply are used in our programmes.

Skills Covered On The Course

Successful completion of Beginner Foundation Course will mean your dog can demonstrate the following skills:

Introduction To Heelwork: (on-lead) 10 metres
Sit & Stay: teaching the cue, duration (10 secs) & distance (3 metres)
Recall: recall around other dogs using a whistle
Retrieves: any item, thrown by handler, returned & dropped
Hunting Pattern: including turn & hunt whistle cues

Videos Demonstrating Every Exercise + 7-Day-a-Week Support

During your course you will receive membersip to our online Gundog Training Academy.

Every exercise we cover in class comes with an easy-to-follow video demonstration, so you always know exactly what to work on at home.

You’ll also have individual support from an accredited Gundog Club Instructor & Assessor.

MEMBERSHIP OF THE ACER GUNDOG TRAINING

ONLINE ACADEMY

VIDEOS FEATURING EVERY EXERCISE

With training support if you get stuck

MEMBERSHIP OF THE ACER GUNDOG TRAINING

ONLINE ACADEMY

VIDEOS FEATURING EVERY EXERCISE

7-day-a-week trainer support

What Our Clients Are Saying

Locations

What's Included In The Course

Plus:

Videos covering every aspect of the course, plus comprehensive written notes explaining all the exercises.
Between classes, you’ll have 7-day-a-week access to individual coaching and guidance from Mark Taylor, Gundog Club Instructor.
Private Client Community for support with the training, plus general chat with other gundog owners who are also training their dog with us around the world.