Pointing Dog Training
At Seranoa Kennels, our goal is to craft confident, biddable, and reliable bird dogs who understand how to learn. That process takes time, patience, and consistency. Training techniques, and the pace at which training progresses, must be tailored to fit each individual dog’s needs. Dogs are at their best when they can learn new things in a logical sequence, and in a low-stress setting. Our guest string is limited to 18 dogs.
The Seranoa Kennels pointing dog training program is divided into two sessions: spring training for young dogs, and summer training on wild birds from horseback.
During our spring session, which runs from April 1 - June 30, young dogs are introduced to gunfire, whoa breaking, and introduction to the e-collar in both the neck and belly positions. After all foundational training is complete, we move into the field and begin work on planted birds. Here, we teach backing, stop-to-flush, and steadiness to wing and shot. Rattlesnake and porcupine avoidance training is also available during this time.
During our summer session, which runs from July 15 – September 15, we focus on pattern, handling, recall, and exposure to wild birds. Young dogs are given the opportunity to knock and chase birds; older dogs who are already yard broke are steadied up and taught to back and stand to wing and shot. Rattlesnake and porcupine avoidance training is also available during this time.
Pre-season “refresher” sessions are also available in the fall by reservation.
Enrollment is limited to 18 dogs per month. Reservations are required.
What Sets Us Apart
-
Health and vaccination: Owners of all incoming dogs must provide proof of current vaccination. Absolutely no puppies under the age of five months may come onto the property.
Deposits and reservations: Reservations for training, started dogs, and puppies must be guaranteed with a 50% deposit. Deposits for puppies are refundable if the litter fails to produce a puppy of the gender specified by the customer.
Transportation: All transportation arrangements are at the owner’s expense. If Seranoa Kennels provides transportation, it will bill out at an hourly rate plus mileage.
Veterinary costs: If a dog requires veterinary attention while in our care, veterinary costs will be passed along to the owner.
Visitors: Visitors to the kennel are always welcome by appointment.
Training agreement: Click here to review and print the Seranoa Kennels training agreement.
“John is more than a dog or horse trainer. John is an analyst, who thinks deeply about whole systems: the dog, horse, bird, and the prairie. He has a kind and firm hand, which makes his approach clear, fair, and most importantly, effective. John has produced some of the best dogs I've hunted over, and I'm so grateful to have him as a resource for me and my dogs.
I have had the extraordinary privilege to work with many of the most accomplished dog trainers in the world- from game wardens to police and military to medical detection dogs-- and I can say that John McIltrot is one of the great ones. His results speak for themselves, but it's his process that really shows how exceptional he is. Watching John train is a joy-- his affection for every dog he works with, his thoughtful and conscientious approach, and his humility, which inspires him to understand each individual (dog and owner) and meet them where they are.”
-Pete Coppolillo, Executive Director Working Dogs for Conservation
Interested in Sending a dog?
If you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your dog and goals. We'll review your message and get back to you as soon as we can.