What is your training philosophy?

Our training philosophy centers on understanding the dog's perspective and building a strong relationship based on trust and communication. We believe in a relationship-based approach where the handler learns to communicate effectively with their dog, avoiding confusion and fostering a well-behaved, confident spaniel.

What types of training programs do you offer?

We offer a variety of training programs tailored to the needs of your spaniel, including basic obedience, advanced field skills, and specialized training for bird hunting, spaniel field trials, and hunt tests. Our programs include Puppy Development, Started Dogs, Finished Dogs, Field Trial Development, and an Online Video Training Library. Each program is designed to build a strong relationship between you and your dog, ensuring effective communication and trust.

How can I train my spaniel for bird hunting?

Training a spaniel for bird hunting starts long before you ever step foot in a field. The best hunting dogs aren't created through a single drill or shortcut — they're developed through consistent foundations, confidence-building, and real bird exposure. At Craney Hill Kennel, we follow a proven progression that works for spaniels of all ages and natural abilities. Our programs cover everything from basic obedience and steadiness to quartering, flushing, and retrieving in the field.

What are the benefits of training a spaniel for hunt tests or field trials?

Training your spaniel for hunt tests or field trials provides structured goals that push both dog and handler to higher levels of performance. The discipline required for competition produces a more reliable, responsive hunting companion in the field. Field trials and hunt tests also connect you with a community of passionate spaniel enthusiasts, provide objective benchmarks for your dog's progress, and ensure your training methods meet the highest standards in the sport.

Where are your training facilities located?

Our training facilities are located in Mitchell, Georgia and northern Michigan. These locations provide a variety of cover, terrain, woods, and water essential for developing flushing gundogs. The climate in Georgia during winter months is favorable for consistent training, while summer and fall training takes place in northern Michigan to take advantage of cooler temperatures and diverse upland habitat.

What level of commitment do you expect from clients?

We expect clients to be fully committed to their dog's development and to maintaining the training standards established during their program. This includes following through on homework assignments, attending scheduled training sessions, and practicing consistently between sessions. The relationship between handler and dog is central to our training philosophy, so owner involvement and dedication are essential to achieving lasting results.

What are some of your achievements in spaniel training?

Todd Agnew has a proven track record in spaniel field trials, having developed numerous dogs that have won and placed in various competitions. He has been featured in Garden & Gun magazine as one of the South's best gundog trainers. Our training programs are designed to meet the highest standards and expectations, helping clients achieve their goals with their flushing gundogs.

Some Days Bring a Little Extra Meaning to the Ribbons.

Todd Agnew

3 hours ago

2 min read

At the Euclid Sporting Spaniel Field Trials, three dogs with close ties to Craney Hill earned placements worth celebrating. Two sons of our Dudley were in the ribbons, Chance had a visitor from home, and Lyric added a win while we wait for his next chapter as a sire.

Simon & Chance: Two Dudley Sons in the Ribbons

Congratulations to **FC Craney Hill Dark Side of the Moon — Simon-Owner Jeff Ford**, who earned **2nd place at the 1st Euclid Sporting Spaniel Field Trial**, and **NFC FC NFTCH FTCH Crosswinds Watch This — Chance-Owner Cheryl Spearling**, who earned **3rd place**.

Both are sons of our Dudley. Seeing them continue to do well carries a little more meaning now. Each is his own dog, but that family connection will always be special to us.

Chance also had a surprise waiting for him. His momma, Cheryl, flew in from Florida to see her very special boy. A ribbon is lovely, but getting to be there with your dog makes the occasion all the sweeter.

A First Place for Lyric

At the **2nd Euclid Sporting Spaniel Field Trial**, **FC Crosswinds Lyric-Owner Betsey Battistoni** earned **1st place**—another result we were delighted to celebrate.

There is more to look forward to with Lyric, too. He and **Craney Hill Rosalinda — Roz-Owner Pat Ford**, our Dudley daughter, are expecting puppies at the beginning of November.

With Lyric being a Riot son and Roz a Dudley daughter, this litter brings together two dogs who have meant a great deal to Craney Hill. We’re looking forward to meeting the next generation.

Thank You to the People Behind the Trials

Our sincere thanks to the **Euclid Springer Club** for once again putting on such a great event for the dogs and handlers.

These trials simply don’t happen without the people behind them. To the judges, gunners, club members, volunteers, and everyone who gave their time to make the weekend possible—thank you. We appreciate the work that goes into giving these dogs and handlers their opportunity in the field.

And a Little Credit Where It’s Due…

I suppose I should also say well done to Todd for handling these fine dogs. Sitting here in Georgia, I’ll have to assume he did a good job… the ribbons seem to back him up.

Christina