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

Did You Know~Todd Was A Pheasant Guide

Effective Training for Busy Owners

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

Want to understand the thinking behind everything we teach?

Explore The Craney Hill Journal Articles

Why We Do Not Offer Quick-Fix Dog Training!

Flush: A New Beginning for a Special Pup

Transform Your Spaniel: Effective Training for Busy Owners

Autumn Hunts, Happy Hearts: Our Spaniels in Their Element

Spaniel Training Workshop Recap: Todd Agnew & Central Ontario Spaniel Club

Building a Strong Foundation with Buzz The Springer

The Woods Are Calling: Is Your Dog Ready for Hunting Season?

Gun Dog Obedience: The One Lesson That Transformed My Training Approach

“Why Your Dog Still Can’t Heel… and Why It’s Not the Dog’s Fault”

“Stop Rushing the Process: Why Patience Builds Better Gun Dogs”

Poacher: A Gentle Soul and the Dog of Our Dreams

A New Generation of Springer Spaniels Is On The Way

Did You Know ~ Todd Was A Pheasant Guide

Built For The Hunt:Field Tested For Serious Upland Hunters

The Spaniel Struggle ~ Real Gun Dog Training

“We didn’t need less energy. We needed more direction.”

Post Gun Dog Camp~Now It's Your Turn

When Life Gets in the Way - A Gun Dog Story

Bringing Huey the Chance x Tilly pup home to Vermont: A New Journey Begins

Shannon's New Journey ~ First Pheasant Hunt For Marie & Rose!!

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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