John Hoffman, DU

Meet the Trainers is an exclusive compilation of Q&As from Ducks Unlimited, spotlighting several of the nation's premier retriever trainers. Designed for dedicated duck dog handlers, this series is a treasure trove of expert advice, strategies, and personal stories from the field. Whether you're in the heat of the off-season with an advanced dog or gearing up for the fall with a new puppy, these trainers will help you get the most out of your four-legged hunting partner. Some of the questions include:

Puppy Development

  • Key training priorities for puppies
  • Common mistakes by amateur trainers
  • Choosing the right name for your dog

 

Top Training Tips

  • Correcting breaking and improving steadiness
  • Addressing whining in young dogs
  • Training safely in summer heat

 

Hunting Focus

  • Indicators that your dog is ready for hunting season
  • Correcting bad habits picked up in the field
  • Setting expectations for your retriever during the season

 

Each article features seasoned trainers who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of retriever training. From the early stages of puppy training to fine-tuning behaviors and preparing for the hunting season, these experts share their invaluable knowledge to help you and your dog succeed. Expect engaging Q&A sessions, personal anecdotes, and actionable tips.

Each article features seasoned trainers who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of retriever training. From the early stages of puppy training to fine-tuning behaviors and preparing for the hunting season, these experts share their invaluable knowledge to help you and your dog succeed. Expect engaging Q&A sessions, personal anecdotes, and actionable tips.

Meet the Trainers

Al Klotsche — Wildrose Kennels Midwest

Christopher Writt — Writz Kennels, First Flight Gun Dogs

Jeremy Moore — DogBone

Jon Schuetz — Continental Kennels

Josh Miller — River Stone Kennels

Justin Jackson — Texoma Retrievers LLC

Kenny Trott and Marcy Wright — Horsetooth Retriever Kennel

Lakeavian Star — Habitat Flats Kennels

Marty Roberts — Sporting Life Kennels

Mike Lardy — Handjem Retrievers

Mike Stewart — Wildrose Kennels International

Ray Voigt — Purina

Steve Smith — Otter Tail Kennels

Tom Smith — Wildrose Mississippi

Walter Schalau — Southern Oak Kennels