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#41 The journey to build a stronger connection with your hunting dog goes far beyond basic commands and whistle blows. Bob Owens, founder of Lone Duck Outfitters and Kennels, takes us deep into what he calls "the unspoken bond" – that magical connection between handler and retriever that transforms good dogs into exceptional hunting partners.

Bob's path from college rugby player to respected professional trainer offers a masterclass in pursuing passion against the odds. Starting with just a yellow Lab named Buck and a dream to help others train their own dogs, he built a thriving community around the shared joy of working with retrievers. His candid stories of sleeping in tents at hunt tests while selling gear from his trailer reveal the grit behind building a reputation in the gundog world.

The conversation delivers practical wisdom for handlers at every level. Bob breaks down the differences between hunt test venues, offers a fascinating glimpse into the elite Super Retriever Series competitions, and shares what to look for when selecting your next retriever prospect. His philosophy of being "overprepared and underwhelmed" when entering competitions serves as a powerful mantra for success in both training and hunting scenarios.

What truly sets this episode apart is Bob's commitment to community building. Through his Patreon hunts, training seminars, and online courses, he's created spaces where gun dog enthusiasts form lasting friendships while improving their training skills. As he recounts stories of diverse groups from across the country bonding over shared passions, it becomes clear that the gundog world offers something increasingly rare – authentic connection through shared purpose.

Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just beginning your journey with your first retriever, this episode provides both practical training advice and a reminder of why we're drawn to working with these remarkable animals in the first place. Check out Bob's online force fetch course with code GDN20 for 20% off, and explore his community at patreon.com/loneduckoutfitters.

Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.

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