Gun Dog Training Starts Early: How Puppy Development Shapes Future Spaniels

Gun Dog Training Foundations: Developing Confidence and Thinking Skills in Puppies

Craney Hill She Thinks She’s So Smart ~ Kaye

Every once in a while, a puppy comes along who just has that little spark—a brightness in the eyes, a quickness in the mind, and a natural willingness to engage and figure things out. Kaye is one of those pups.

Kaye comes from our Betty x Chance breeding, a cross we made with intention, purpose, and generations of steady, talented field dogs behind it. We have been watching her closely since she was just a few weeks old, and from the start she has carried herself with a confidence that says, “I’m ready to learn.”

In the video we shared, Kaye is working with Todd as she begins the foundation of clicker training. This early stage is all about helping a puppy think and choose:

• Offering the correct behavior

• Making eye contact and seeking connection

• Trying, problem-solving, and learning how to be rewarded

• Building trust and engagement with the handler

  
  

There is no pressure in these moments. No rush. No expectations of perfection. Just soft encouragement and clear communication.

We’re not shaping a field trial champion today. We’re shaping a thinking dog.

A puppy who learns how to want to work with us. A puppy who understands that good choices lead to good things. A puppy who is forming the building blocks of steadiness, confidence, and partnership—long before birds are in the picture.

And Kaye… well, she has taken to this with her whole little heart.

Her registered name is: Craney Hill She Thinks She’s So Smart — “Kaye”

And honestly…We think she is. 😉

We’re excited to watch her grow, develop, and continue to show us who she will become. The journey from puppy to polished gun dog is a long one, but it starts with these small, meaningful moments—tiny cues, tiny triumphs, tiny sparks of brilliance.

And for Kaye, that spark is shining already.

At Craney Hill, we take pride in developing dogs from the foundation up. Whether you’re starting with a young puppy or you have a dog who needs guidance, clarity, and direction, we focus on building a strong working relationship that lasts in the field and at home.

If you’ve been thinking about sending your dog to training, now is the time to get on our schedule. We work with a limited number of dogs so that each dog receives the one-on-one attention and thoughtful, intentional development they deserve.

Interested in a training spot? Reach out anytime — we’d love to help you bring out the best in your dog.📍 Learn more at: www.spanieltraining.com

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