Question 1

What is your training philosophy?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What types of training programs do you offer?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How can I train my spaniel for bird hunting?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Where are your training facilities located?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What level of commitment do you expect from clients?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What are some of your achievements in spaniel training?

Accepted Answer

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.

Todd's Field Notes

Pages from the Training Grounds.

A Client's Perspective: Training Spaniels at Craney Hill Kennel

One Clean Rep Beats Ten
Sloppy Ones

Effective Training for Busy Owners

“Most training problems don’t begin where we first notice them.”

Explore The Craney Hill Journal Articles

Teach Your Dog To Problem Solve!

Does Your Dog Know What You Think It Knows?

Summer Dog Training Camp!!

Gun Dog Training ~ Building Confidence

Spotlight on Spaniel Field Trials: Simon and Tilly's Ribbon Placements & Puppies

Developing Flushing Gundogs: Puppy Training to Seasoned Trained Gundogs

Nurturing Trust and Communication Between Handlers and Their Gundog Companions!

Winter Training for Spaniels in the Field!

Providing Training To Our Clients During A Pheasant Shoot!!

Happy 13th Birthday To Dudley!!

Spaniel Puppy Walks In The Woods~Winter Training Sign Up!!

Personalized Spaniel Training For Field Trials, Upland Hunting, and Hunt Tests.

Happy 8th Birthday To DJ!!!

Riot Celebrates His 12th Birthday

Springer Puppies First Pigeon

We Provide Specialized Spaniel Training At Our Facility In Georgia & In Northern Michigan.

The North Woods Were Calling Us, So We Packed Up & Left GA…

"Behind the Scenes at Craney Hill Kennel: A Day in the Life of Professional Dog Training"

If You Want A Bird Dog, You Need Birds!

Gun Dog Spaniel Training Camp!

Great Book To Read!

"The land is a living thing, and if you treat it with the respect it deserves, it will eventually share its secrets with you."

"Where better handlers are built."

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