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.

Little Victories Build Great Gun Dogs: Monty's First Wild Quail Experience

Todd Agnew
Nov 22, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Mar 15

Owner: Scott

A Memorable Moment in Nebraska

Monty had a remarkable experience this week. He got his very first wild quail in Nebraska! This is a moment that his owner, Scott, will cherish forever.

What makes this story even more special? It was Monty’s first trip home during his training development. The timing was perfect for him to gain some real wild-bird experience. It couldn’t have been a better opportunity for this young dog to put all his training into action.

How It All Unfolded

Scott shared how the day went down. Monty flushed the covey beautifully, sending the main group flying in one direction. Once Scott saw that Monty was steady, he turned the opposite way and took a single bird. However, Monty hadn’t seen it fall.

Scott gave Monty a gentle handle in the direction of the fall— no more than 20 yards along the cut-corn edge. Monty went straight to work.

From there, things only got better. He flushed six pheasant hens out of another field, driving right into the wind with growing confidence. Today, Scott noted that Monty was already more animated, more purposeful, and starting to push that clean, direct line into the birds. This is exactly what we love to see!

The Joy of Training

These moments make all the training worth it. Watching a young dog discover his instincts, trust his handler, and come alive on wild birds for the very first time is truly special. What a fantastic beginning for Monty and Scott!

And something tells me… this is just the start of many great stories to come. 🐾🤎

Building Confidence in Young Dogs

If you’re ready to give your young dog the same foundation and confidence that Monty is building, we’d love to help.

www.spanieltraining.com

Why Moments Matter More Than Birds

In the world of hunting, the best experiences aren’t just about the number of birds you bag. They’re about the moments you share with your dog. Each flush, each retrieve, and each successful hunt builds a bond that lasts a lifetime.

So, what’s your favorite hunting moment? Is it the first time your dog flushed a bird? Or maybe it was when they made a perfect retrieve? These memories are what keep us coming back for more.

The Journey Ahead

As Monty continues his training, Scott will be there every step of the way. It’s not just about hunting; it’s about building a relationship based on trust and understanding.

Every training session is a chance to strengthen that bond. Whether it’s practicing commands or going out for a fun day in the field, each moment counts.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

In conclusion, let’s celebrate the little victories that lead to great gun dogs. Monty’s journey is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes him and Scott.

Let’s make every moment count, and remember that the best hunts are measured in those unforgettable experiences we share with our dogs.

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