Gundog Training for Pet and Working Breeds

What Is Gundog Training and Why Does It Matter?

Gundog training taps into the natural instincts of hunting breeds — like spaniels, retrievers and HPRs — whether they work in the field or not. It channels energy, builds focus, and strengthens communication between dog and handler. Even for pet gundogs, this kind of training brings balance, satisfaction, and better everyday behaviour.

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This Is What We Do Best

At Dog Smart, gundog training isn’t an add-on — it’s our specialist focus. With years of experience working and living with high-drive breeds, we know how to harness instinct through structured, force-free training that feels as good as it works.

Whether your dog is bred for the field or just full of energy and drive, this is where you can learn to work together — not against each other.

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Who It’s For

• Spaniels, retrievers, HPRs and gundog crosses

• High-energy breeds of all kinds who love to chase or fetch

• Dogs struggling with over-arousal or chaos in group settings

• Owners looking to build focus, impulse control and a better bond

You don’t need to have a working dog or field goals. If your dog enjoys using their nose, chasing toys, or solving problems — they’ll love this work.

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Our Gundog Training Approach

We use positive, force-free methods tailored to your gundog’s personality and breed traits. There’s no “one size fits all” — we take the time to understand your dog, whether they’re a working dog needing structure or a high-energy pet needing guidance. Sessions are kind, effective, and rooted in science-based learning.

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What We Offer

• Small Group Classes (max 4 dogs for beginners)

• 1:1 Gundog Training Sessions

• Online course access included with packages

• Sunday Intermediate Groups (up to 8 dogs) for those progressing from 1:1s or beginners — separated by breed group:

  • Spaniel Group

  • Retriever Group

  • HPRs may join either depending on style and fit

For dogs who find group classes too intense, we also offer 1:1 support that blends foundational gundog skills with behaviour awareness — especially valuable for over-aroused or overwhelmed dogs.

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Gundog Training for High-Energy Pet Dogs

You don’t need to own a working gundog to benefit from gundog training. Many family pets — especially spaniels and retrievers — thrive when given a job. Our training helps give that drive a purpose, making life calmer and more fulfilling for both you and your dog.

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Skills We Commonly Teach

• Off-lead connection and recall

• Heelwork and working around distractions

• Retrieving, directional control, stop whistle

• Boundary awareness and impulse control

• Using play to reinforce behaviours

• Building an “off switch” for high-energy dogs

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What Makes Dog Smart Different

• Force-free, reward-based training that respects breed instincts

• Calm, structured teaching tailored to each dog

• Experienced gundog handler and active shoot participant

• Access to secure fields, woodland, and water environments

• Real gundog tools and setups for meaningful, breed-specific learning​

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Book Your Gundog Training Session in Sevenoaks

Ready to get started? Whether you're training for the field, managing behaviour, or just looking to connect better with your gundog, we’re here to help. Click below to book a one-to-one or small group session in Sevenoaks or nearby.

Start Here

Whether your goal is better recall, more focus, or simply a calmer way to connect — this is the place to begin.

👉 View Our Gundog Training Page

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