Our training schedule is aimed at giving members a varied but progressive training base for gundogs of all abilities and all ages above 6 months. A basic standard of obedience is however anticipated. Dogs will be split into groups dependant on their age and ability. Please read our Area URC Rules & Regulations regarding training classes which can easily be found on p139 of the 2023 URC Yearbook (para 12) or via the URC website.
Our Area training aims to follow positive reward methods and supports the Kennel Club ethos against punitive correction and harsh handling.
Training Evenings: The evening sessions will be divided between two wonderfully accommodating grounds:
Bloxworth near Bere Regis, by kind permission of Lisa McDonald-Smith and Knowle Farm, Bowerchalke, South of Salisbury by kind permission of Mrs Janie and Mr Angus Mann.
Evening training times: Sessions do not require prior booking. Please arrive for 6pm to check in for a 6.30pm start.
Cost: £10 per evening session.
Evening group guidance: For beginner classes: Your dog will be 6 months or over: generally under 18 months although older dogs are welcome. We would anticipate dogs to be reasonably responsive to recall, be under control on a lead and to be interested in hunting and retrieving.
For improvers classes: Dogs should sit and stay when asked, walk to heel ‘off lead’ and respond to recall, likewise stopping on the whistle, show an interest in hunting, be reasonable at delivering to hand and achieving basic to moderate retrieves.
For the experienced/Open classes: Dogs should be over 18 months old, of Working Test standard, steady to a marked retrieve, shot and distractions, respond to directions and handle reasonably well on blind retrieves.
Bloxworth training:
Easily found on the A35 between Lytchett Minster and Bere Regis - Signs will be out.
What3Words: https://w3w.co/span.steepest.averts
Wednesday, 24 April, 8, 22 May and 5 June 2024
*Please do not arrive too early as the entrance may be locked on what is a fast main road.
Bowerchalke training:
Knowle Farm, Bowerchalke SP5 5BP - Signs will be out.
What3Words: https://w3w.co/Lessening.yoga.began
Wednesday, 19 June, 3, 17, 31 July 2024
At the last training session we will present The Sportsman Progress Shield for the handler who has shown the most progression: open to members who have trained at either venue. Certificates of Merit may also be awarded where trainers feel it is appropriate.
Non-members: A person interested in becoming a member may attend one or two evening sessions to get an idea of what is expected. Non-members must contact the training Co-ordinator prior to attending. Non-members that have already attended two taster sessions are expected to await approval of their membership before continued participation.
Training Days 2024
Training days aim to challenge dogs and handlers with scenarios pertaining to specific ground. These days are more suited to Novice and Open dogs and advanced puppies. Days are bookable in advance at a cost of £35 a day.
Hills and Valleys Training Day: Sunday 3rd March 2024 at Gurston, Broad Chalke Nr Salisbury, Wiltshire by kind permission of Mr Robert and Mrs Jean Hitchens.
*New for 2024! Understanding Working Tests Day*
Saturday 6th April 2024 at Ashoaks Farm, Higher Shaftesbury Road, Blandford, Dorset by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Malcolm Green. Specifically designed to help new members understand what a Gundog Working Test is and to enable handlers to establish what is expected of them and the desired standards to work for, ultimately building confidence. Aimed at handlers of gundog retrievers that are new or relatively new to working tests. Spaces limited to 10 places.
General Training Day 1 with hills and water:
Saturday 4th May 2024 at Hawkers Hill Farm, Shaftesbury, Dorset by kind permission of Mr Phil Lever and Mrs Mary and Mr Paul Crocker.
General Training Day 2:
Saturday 29th June 2024 location: Lopshill Farm, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, by kind permission of Mr & Mrs Ollie Coward.
In the Evening and Day training sessions, handlers are to employ close control of their dogs at all times. Handlers whose dogs show aggressive behaviour may need to be asked to leave.
For more information about how to register your interest in the Training Days, to book your place or further information in general, please contact the Training Co-ordinator, Fen D’Lucie via email - fen.dlucie@gmail.com