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.

Tilly x Chance Puppies-Watching Them Grow!

Todd Agnew
May 3, 2024
1 min read

#springerspaniels #springerspanielpuppies #spaniels #spanielpuppies #puppies #uplandhunting #grousehunting #gundogs #gundogtrainer

The Tilly x Chance puppies are getting bigger and they are busy in the whelping pen. They are 3 weeks old today and we have introduced some mushy food, which they are really enjoying.

We have scheduled the puppies eye test in northern MI and it will be on June 21, 2024, which then means puppies will be picked up on June 22 and 23 in northen MI. Those of you who are getting a puppy from this litter please be prepared that weekend to get your puppy. We still have a few puppies available. Please contact christina.craneyhill@gmail.com for further questions.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/f68c63_480b19581fc547deac1d73d736e1c8bd/720p/mp4/file.mp4

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/f68c63_71bf7977ccee4452b8c309f00b963ca6/720p/mp4/file.mp4

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/f68c63_c3cd9b90ff204c958be316ff2ab4f016/720p/mp4/file.mp4

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/f68c63_1d9423c489504c6380384cb880293601/720p/mp4/file.mp4

Todd with springer spaniels Riley and Alder..