School of dog training - handling

Dog Training Services
Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers questions relating to Dog Training Services

Where will my dog be trained?

We are in Montana from June through October and in South Carolina from November through February. This allows us to put client dogs on birds in the west and on a South Carolina quail plantation for premium training opportunities.
What is required for my dog to be admitted to the kennels?

Each dog is required to have a veterinarian's health record stating that all vaccinations, including those for Bordetella, parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus hepatitis, leptospirosis, and Lyme disease are up to date. Negative heartworm, Lyme disease, and Brucellosis test results are also required. These policies help to protect all dogs at Stonecreek Kennels
How old must a dog be to be accepted for training?

Upon completion of their puppy vaccinations we will take youngsters to properly expose them to birds and guns during the imprinting stage and to continue their socialization.
What food will my dog be fed?

We feed all dogs at Stonecreek Kennels Purina Pro Plan.
Do you offer private consultation?

Often owners book time either before or after one of our one-day or four-day schools. Of course, time can be booked at the Tennessee facility. The rate is $600 for a half day and $1,000 for a full day.

Training Tips

Get your dog into shape and toughen its pads before the first day of hunting season. Running your dog slowly for long distances is the best initial conditioning. A dog embarking on a full day's hunt with soft pads can be bad news. If the dog gets torn pads, it may be out of commission for quite some time. Do not run the dog on asphalt. Hard-packed dirt and sand are ideal surfaces for conditioning work.

Whenever possible, hunt your dog into the wind. The dog will produce birds if the wind is blowing scent to its nose, rather than away from its scent gathering radar.

Make sure all of your dog's vaccinations, heartworm, and tick preventatives are up to date. Coyotes, foxes, rodents, and parasites are lurking out there. Be prepared.

Make hunting fun for you and your dog. Don't expect your dog to do things that you haven't trained it to do. Also remember that the dog doesn't understand the King's English. Don't expect excellence from a young dog in its debut or from a dog that is untrained. Give your pup the experience and make it a happy time.