Gundog training for every stage

From first retrieve to field-ready — positive, tailored training for pet and working gundogs alike.

Gundog training session in the field

About me

Gundog training built on patience, consistency, and a love of working breeds.

Causeway Gundog Club instructor with gundogs

I've been working with gundogs for almost half a decade, starting with my own labrador and developing a passion for helping owners build confident, happy partnerships with their dogs, through my work as a junior trainer at Wiltshire & Sommerset Gundogs.

My approach is balaced, and based on the specific needs of your dog. I focus on clear communication, setting dogs up to succeed, and making training enjoyable for both ends of the lead. Classes are structured but relaxed, with plenty of time for questions and individual attention within the group.

I believe every gundog breed — and many crossbreeds — can benefit from gundog-style training. It's not just about retrieving; it's about building focus, self-control, and a dog that listens when it matters most.

Class levels

Four progressive stages to take your dog from puppy foundations to advanced field work.

Puppy Beginner Intermediate Advanced
Level 1

Puppy

For puppies from 12 weeks old to 6 months, once vaccinations are complete. No prior training needed.

  • Socialisation around people and other dogs
  • Basic recall and lead manners
  • Introduction to retrieving with soft dummies
  • Building focus and engagement with you
  • Confidence with new environments

After this, most puppies move to Beginner.

Enquire about Puppy
Level 2

Beginner

For dogs with basic obedience who can work around other dogs on lead. Typically 6 months and up.

  • Sit, stay, and wait at a distance
  • Steadiness before retrieving
  • Simple marked retrieves on land
  • Loose-lead walking in distracting environments
  • Introduction to whistle commands

After this, most dogs move to Intermediate.

Enquire about Beginner
Level 3

Intermediate

For dogs with solid basics who can retrieve reliably and work off-lead in a controlled group setting.

  • Memory and blind retrieves (short distances)
  • Handling left and right at distance
  • Steadiness with multiple dummies down
  • Working around distractions and other dogs

After this, most dogs move to Advanced.

Enquire about Intermediate
Level 4

Advanced

For experienced dogs ready for complex retrieves, field scenarios, and competition-style work.

  • Multi-marked and complex blind retrieves
  • Advanced handling and lining
  • Preparation for working tests and trials
  • Refining precision and consistency under pressure

Ongoing progression through field experience and tests.

Enquire about Advanced

1:1 Training

Personalised sessions tailored to you and your dog's specific goals.

One-to-one training is ideal if your dog needs focused attention on a particular skill, if group class times don't suit your schedule, or if you'd prefer to work at your own pace before joining a class.

Sessions are also popular for nervous dogs who need a quieter start, owners preparing for a graded training test, or addressing specific behaviour challenges like poor recall, or over-excitement around dummies.

1
60-minute sessions

At our training field or a location we agree in advance.

2
Fully tailored

We set clear goals at the start and review progress each session.

3
Take-home exercises

You'll leave with practical exercises to practice between sessions.

Enquire about 1:1 training

Typical Schedule & location

Weekly classes runing all year. Outdoor sessions — please dress for the weather.

Class Day Time
Puppy Saturday 09:00
Beginner Saturday 10:00
Intermediate Saturday 11:15 pm
Advanced Variable Variable

Weather policy: Classes run in most weather; you'll be notified by text if sessions are cancelled due to extreme conditions.

Tytherton Village Hall

East Tytherton
Chippenham
SN15 4LT

what3words: ///assure.trouble.motivator

Parking: On-site parking in the village hall — follow signs for "Gundog Training".
Access: The training field is a short flat walk from the village hall. Wellies recommended in winter.

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Pricing

Transparent fees so you know what to expect before you get in touch.

Puppy

£12.50

45-minute session

  • Introduction to gundog foundations
  • Small, supportive group setting
  • Socialisation and basic skills

Beginner & Intermediate

£15

1-hour session

  • Core obedience and retrieving skills
  • Steadiness, handling, and distractions
  • Outdoor group training

Advanced

£22.50

1 hour 30 minute session

  • Complex field scenarios
  • Advanced handling and lining
  • Test and trial preparation

1:1 Training

£35

1-hour session

  • Private, tailored training
  • Focused on your goals
  • Take-home exercise notes

Payment accepted by bank transfer or cash on the day. Get in touch to check availability and book your place.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions from new clients — if yours isn't here, just ask.

Puppies can join from 12 weeks old, once they have completed their initial vaccinations. Early socialisation is important, so don't wait too long — but they should be comfortable on lead and able to travel to the venue.

No. While classes are designed with gundog breeds in mind (labradors, spaniels, retrievers, etc.), any dog that enjoys retrieving and outdoor training is welcome. Crossbreeds with gundog traits often do brilliantly.

A slip-lead or flat collar with a standard lead (no extendable leads), a training dummy, plenty of small soft treats, and weather-appropriate clothing for yourself. Training dummies can be provided, but we recommend bringing your own. If you are joining a class for the first time, please get in contact for specific kit recomendations to avoid purchasing unecassary kit.

Yes, all group classes are held outdoors on our training field. Light rain won't stop us — in fact, training in varied weather builds resilient dogs. If conditions are unsafe (heavy storms, ice), I'll notify you by text and we'll rearrange.

Yes. All dogs must be fully vaccinated and treated for fleas and worms. Puppies must have completed their initial vaccination course before attending.

Read through the class descriptions above, or get in touch with a brief description of your dog's age, experience, and what they can already do. I'm happy to recommend the right level — and if it turns out they're in the wrong class, we'll move them without fuss.

Get in touch

Ready to start training? Send an enquiry and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.

WhatsApp

07703 846977

Response time

I aim to reply to all enquiries within 24 hours, usually much sooner.