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.

In Loving Memory of FC Craney Hill Dalmore Dudley

Todd Agnew
Apr 11
3 min read

In Loving Memory of

FC Craney Hill Dalmore Dudley

September 27, 2011 - April 7, 2026

With broken hearts, we share that Dudley, FC Craney Hill Dalmore Dudley, passed away

peacefully on the night of April 7, 2026.

Dudley was far more than an exceptional field trial dog. He was the beloved patriarch of a

remarkable lineage, a dog of extraordinary heart, quiet dignity, and unwavering spirit. His

presence left an imprint not only on our lives, but on the Springer Spaniel community as a

whole.

Born in Bridgewater, Maine - yes, a Mainer - Dudley's story began in a place that feels

especially fitting. Right now, all I can hear in my head is Sheryl Mayo saying, "Get out of

here..." Years ago, we would head to Maine for grouse and woodcock hunting and spent months

there in God's Country - or, as it is formally known, "The County." It is an absolutely beautiful

place to be, and somehow it seems only right that Dudley's life began there.

The year after Dudley was born, we once again headed back to Maine for another season of

grouse - or partridge, as so many call them. It was there, in those Maine woods, that Dudley

became a bird dog. I can still picture the exact spot in those woods where it all began. I could share countless stories of the special things Dudley did, but some memories are too precious and are best kept close to our hearts.

Dudley with his first grouse in Maine. — October 10, 2012 - Dudley's First Grouse

Dudley always gave his all in everything we ever asked of him. He was an amazing bird finder,

like his mother before him, and he blossomed into a wonderful field trial dog. His life was

marked by outstanding achievement. Dudley earned his place among the greats as the 2017

U.S. High Point Open Dog and recipient of the 2018 National Championship Certificate of Merit. Yet beyond the awards and titles, his greatest legacy lives on in the generations he produced and the people who loved him.

Even in the later years of his career, Dudley continued to show his heart and talent. In his final

field trial, at 10 years old, he placed second in a 50-dog stake. After that, he retired from field

trials - not before reminding everyone of exactly who he was.

Dudley and Todd, Dudley's last field trial ribbon. — Dudley's last field trial ribbon at the age of 10. September 12, 2021

His sons proudly carried forward his talent, drive, and spirit:

NFC FC NFTCH FTCH Crosswinds Watch This - Chance,

2x National Open Champion U.S./Canada

FC Craney Hill Grouse on Glendye - DJ, 2022 U.S. High Point Open Dog

DJ (Dudley Jr.)

FC AFC Craney Hill's Justified Raylan of Wise River - Raylan

FC Craney Hill Dark Side of the Moon - Simon

Plus there are so many others out there..

And his legacy continues through his outstanding grandson:

FC AFC Craney Hill Down Goes Frasier's Humongous Arse - Frasier

With many grandchildren and future generations coming on in the field trial world, Dudley's

influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His children and grandchildren are not only excelling in competition, but are also cherished companions and upland hunting dogs,

carrying the same passion, grace, and heart that defined him.

Dudley gave us so much in his 14 years - joy, pride, loyalty, and love beyond words. We will

miss his steady presence, his noble spirit, and the countless memories he gave us. Though our

hearts are very heavy, we are deeply grateful for every moment we had with him.

We are gathering photographs to honor Dudley's life and the family he leaves behind. If you

are the proud owner of one of Dudley's children or grandchildren, we would be honored to

see your photos and memories. Please share them by sending them to

christina.craneyhill@gmail.com

Todd with Lil and Dudley. Pheasant shoot — Dudley with his Mom Lil. His first pheasant shoot, as you can see he is looking at Todd and the bird while Mom is keeping an eye out on the flying birds.

Please join us in remembering and celebrating Dudley - a truly special dog whose legacy will

live on in the field, in our homes, and in our hearts forever.

Dudley's last photo. — *In our hearts forever*