Training : 1 2 3

Lockhard Training
How will you train my dog?

We know it's hard to leave your favorite buddy for an extended period of time. You're probably wondering how we're going to get your dog to mind when he doesn't mind you. At Lockhard, we practice firm, non-harsh methods in non-stressful exercises, and proceed at the pace of your dog's maturity. We expose your dog to lots of birds to let their natural instinct build desire, and then channel that energy into their own controlled style. Be sure to call or email us if you have any questions. Trainer, Gary, is always glad to answer questions. You can also schedule a time to visit and watch a session in progress and tour our kennels.

Your dog is our priority. Our dogs are our family and our kennels must be up to our dogs' standards! That means, always clean kennels and dog houses, fresh water, grub, exercise, and special attention when needed.

You'll probably get updates on your dog's progress, and special notes when milestones are achieved. Every now and then, Gary remembers to have his camera when training and will take a picture to send you!

Dave helps buck begin his lockhard training: Intro to a bird,the gun, heel command, and the training field! click for big and more (4 photos).

When you drop your dog off for training at Lockhard, you're welcome to watch another session in process, or see how the training process will work with your dog. When Dave dropped off Buck, he watched Lockhard's Tomo winding down her session with Sandra and Phil. Buck, a 6-month-old GSP, had a big morning by getting introduced to a bird, the gun, the leash and heel command, and the training field and pond.

We introduce new, exciting experiences to your dog as they learn to use their natural instincts to hunt birds!

Please note: Behavioral problems in your dog must be worked out prior to any bird training. We will evaluate your dog in the first week of training.

Visits by appointment only. No guns are allowed on Lockhard property. Dogs must be leashed.

Trained Retrieve

This training encourages your dog to accept a bumper and bird in their mouth and to Fetch and Hold until the Release command is given. Your dog must be at the right maturity level for this exercise and will be assessed before being accepted into the program.
Age: 1+ years old; duration: depends on how well your dog accepts this training

Cody learned the trained retrieve quickly. Click for big and more (8 photos).

1-on-1 Training
Custom training for you & your dog

LOCKHARD's unique individual training sessions help you take your bird dog to the next level of obedience. They are held on-site in our training field. Sessions are tailored to your special needs.

Cost: $60/1-hr session, $80/1.5-hr session. Add $20/session for birds; 1 hr minimum.

Lockhard's dusty and Lockhard's coach return with Guy and Lonnie for 1-1 training sessions. (click for big and more (13 photos).

Field Training
Keep your dog on the right track

We like to follow up on our started dogs to make sure they're on the right track. We met Lockhard's Jake at Clear Creek Sports Club, where they are known for their fast-flying pheasants. This training is done in the field for dogs who have had previous training.

Lockhard's Jake showed 3 fine points and retrieves in his follow-up session (13 photos).