Companion Gundog Podcast

By Grayson Guyer, Emily ShireyKids & Family Pets & Animals

Companion Gundog Podcast episodes

August 10 Farewell to the Companion Gundog Podcast
Thanks to you all for the support over the last several years.
I'm not done speaking into the abyss, just done talking at you about all the nerdy dog stuff.
I'll keep paddling with my dogs and sharing stories I find interesting over at my YouTube channel. Hope to see you there.
https://www.youtube.com/@companiongundogpodcast/videos

I will continue to foster a community of engaged dog nerds over at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/losthighwaykennels?view_as=patron
31 min
January 29 Public Lands and Access with Cody Fulk of the NCWRC
Cody Fulk is the Management Biologist for the souther piedmont region with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. He and I sit down to lament the potential (read immenent) loss of the west bank of Tuckertown Lake.
Summary
In this episode, Grayson Guyer discusses the significance of Tucker Town, a vital public land area in North Carolina, with Cody, a wildlife biologist. They explore the emotional connections to the land, the trends in public land access, and the challenges facing conservation efforts. The conversation highlights the historical context of the Yadkin River, the role of corporations in land management, and the ecological importance of Tucker Town. They emphasize the need for community involvement and advocacy to preserve this precious resource for future generations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tucker Town and Its Importance
02:30 Public Land Access and Trends in Hunting
05:30 The Emotional Connection to Tucker Town
08:05 Historical Context of the Yadkin River and Tucker Town
11:04 The Role of Corporations in Land Management
13:41 Ecological Significance of Tucker Town
16:20 Challenges Facing Public Land and Conservation Efforts
18:57 Community Involvement and Advocacy for Tucker Town
22:12 The Future of Tucker Town and Public Access
24:46 Conclusion and Call to Action
Save Tuckertown
Donate to Three Rivers Land Trust: https://trlt.org/save-tuckertown/
Visit NCWRC: https://www.ncwildlife.gov/
Visit my website: https://losthighwaykennels.com/

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1 hr 5 min
January 14 Lone Duck's Bob Owens
Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Remembrance
05:36 Training Insights with Pat Nolan
11:01 The Role of Reward-Based Training
16:29 Consequences in Training
22:06 Critique of Training Systems
27:01 Understanding Dog Training Attitudes
31:06 Navigating Pain and Uncomfortability in Training
32:56 The Art of Dog Training: Balancing Pressure and Praise
34:35 Learning and Growing as Trainers
37:19 The Value of DIY Training for Beginners
38:44 Consequences and Overcoming Adversity in Training
41:08 The Importance of Teaching Dogs to Handle Adversity
42:34 Resilience vs. Pain in Dog Training
44:25 Marketing and Misconceptions in Dog Training Methods
45:37 The Evolution of Dog Training Techniques
48:19 The Impact of Style and Precision in Training
51:00 Personality and Individuality in Dogs
54:14 Good Training: A Universal Standard
55:43 The Influence of Style in Dog Training
57:04 Learning from the Best: A Trainer's Journey
58:27 Evolving Training Methods and Personal Experiences
59:38 The Process of Training: Consistency vs. Competition
01:00:25 Casual Approaches to Puppy Development
01:01:19 The Importance of Natural Hunting Experience
01:02:45 The Joy of Hunting: Balancing Fun and Training
01:04:35 The Future of Training: Trials and Competitions
01:05:44 The Role of Standards in Dog Training
01:07:02 Comparing Historical and Modern Training Standards
01:08:09 The Need for Real-World Testing in Trials
01:12:14 Future Plans and Goals in Dog Training
01:18:42 Creating Accessible Training Resources
01:23:48 Finding Balance in Life and Training

Summary

In this episode of the Companion Gundog Podcast, host Grayson Guyer and guest Bob Owens delve into the nuances of dog training, particularly focusing on the debate between force fetch and fun fetch methods. They reflect on personal experiences, the importance of resilience in dogs, and the role of pressure and reward in training. The conversation emphasizes the significance of attitude in training, the necessity of consequences for inaction, and the value of adversity in developing a confident and adaptable dog. Throughout the discussion, they pay tribute to a friend and mentor, highlighting the emotional connections that underpin their passion for dog training. In this engaging conversation, Grayson Guyer and Bob Owens delve into the complexities of dog training, discussing resilience, training methods, and the evolution of techniques over time. They explore the importance of personality in dogs, the balance between training and enjoyment, and the future of dog training competitions. The discussion emphasizes the need for accessible training resources and the significance of maintaining standards in the field. Throughout, they share personal experiences and insights, making it clear that dog training is as much an art as it is a science.

Visit Lone Duck: https://loneduckoutfitters.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooHN8aLhnQxw5LPU4XeK465060LR6C82XqnutsAkJurwFq9KjaW
Visit Lost Highway: https://losthighwaykennels.com/
Consider becoming a Patron: https://patreon.com/losthighwaykennels?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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1 hr 26 min
December 08, 2025 Prong Collar Vs Pinch Collar
Summary

In this episode of the Companion Gun Dog Podcast, host Grayson Guyer discusses his approach to training a new lab, focusing on the importance of understanding different types of collars and their applications in dog training. He emphasizes the significance of context in training, the balance between control and freedom, and shares insights on dog food choices based on personal experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Companion Gun Dogs
00:25 Starting a New Lab: The British Approach
01:40 Training Techniques for Multi-Purpose Dogs
02:55 Understanding Mechanical Advantage Collars
04:11 Introducing the Pinch Collar
08:00 Using the Prong Collar Effectively
21:13 Transitioning to Prong Collars
26:21 Dog Food Transition and Recommendations

Visit my website: https://losthighwaykennels.com/
Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/losthighwaykennels?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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31 min
October 28, 2025 Canoe Dog Diaries; Cornwallis' Treasure Along the Banks of Abbott's Creek
Check out the article that inspired this podcast: https://fieldethos.com/sportsmans-ghost-story/

Summary

In this episode of the Companion Gundog Podcast, host Grayson Guyer shares his experiences and reflections while paddling on Abbotts Creek. He discusses local history, particularly a story about General Cornwallis during the American Revolution, and how it connects to the area. Grayson also reflects on his personal connection to the land and the importance of community. He shares insights on utilizing companion gundogs for hunting and expresses gratitude to his supporters on Patreon.

Chapters

00:00 Canoeing and Hunting Adventures
04:00 Ghost Stories and Local Lore
13:05 Reflections on Connection to Place

Visit my website: https://losthighwaykennels.com

Consider becoming a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/c/losthighwaykennels

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24 min
September 30, 2025 Training Insights with Nate Czarnota
Summary

In this conversation, Nate Czarnota and Grayson Guyer explore various aspects of dog training, focusing on behavioral principles, the Keeler Method, and the importance of mentorship. They discuss the significance of building drive in dogs, the role of pressure in training, and the ethical considerations that trainers must navigate. The conversation emphasizes the need for pragmatism in training, the value of emotional conditioning, and the benefits of cross-pollination between different training techniques. In this conversation, Nate Czarnota and Grayson Guyer delve into the intricacies of dog training, focusing on the distinction between training methods and the intent behind them. They explore the importance of classical conditioning in shaping dog behavior and the emotional narratives that influence training outcomes. The discussion emphasizes the significance of perception in understanding dog behavior and the depth of the human-dog relationship, highlighting how mutual cooperation and understanding can enhance training effectiveness.

Chapters

00:00 Behavioral Principles in Interpersonal Relationships
05:35 Introduction to Dog Training and Mentorship
11:07 Understanding the Keeler Method's Principles
13:46 Influences and Evolution in Dog Training
16:36 Cross-Pollination of Training Methods
19:33 Learning from Diverse Trainers
21:59 Concepts vs. Methods in Dog Training
33:34 Transitioning to Off-Leash Training
35:43 Cross-Pollination of Training Disciplines
37:43 The Pressure of Instant Gratification in Training
39:45 Building Drive and Incremental Progress
41:03 Understanding Drive vs. Behavioral Issues
43:38 The Importance of Emotional Bottoms in Training
47:47 Stress Inoculation and Drive Management
51:12 Classical vs. Operant Conditioning in Training
57:11 Pragmatism in Dog Training Ethics
01:05:07 Ethics in Dog Training
01:07:43 The Role of Testing and Standards
01:15:21 Classical Conditioning and Emotional Narrative
01:23:32 Cooperation and the Human-Dog Bond
01:32:03 Empathy in Dog Training
01:32:47 Genetic Considerations in Working Dogs
01:34:18 Building Resilience in Sporting Dogs
01:34:48 Understanding Emotional Elasticity in Dogs
01:35:38 The Balance of Sensitivity and Drive
01:37:03 Navigating Contradictory Traits in Breeds
01:38:16 The Importance of Conditioning in Training
01:40:02 Classical Conditioning and Drive Management
01:41:22 Creating Neutral States in Training
01:42:25 Perception and Reality in Dog Behavior
01:44:22 The Power of Positive Language in Training
01:46:51 Learning from Mistakes in Training
01:48:48 Adapting Training to Individual Dogs
01:50:14 The Role of Empathy in Training
01:51:23 Mutual Benefit in Dog-Human Relationships
01:53:16 The Depth of the Gun Dog Relationship

Visit Nate's Website: https://www.ironoakdogs.com/

Visit Grayson's Website: https://losthighwaykennels.com/

Consider becoming a Patron: https://patreon.com/losthighwaykennels?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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1 hr 57 min
August 05, 2025 The Method to Rule All Methods
Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Summer Training Overview
07:03 New Chapter 3
07:06 New Chapter 2
07:06 New Chapter
08:04 The Method to Rule Them All
21:47 Emulating and Playing in Dog Training
28:09 The Journey of Learning and Behavior Change
30:29 New Chapter 4

Summary

In this episode of the Companion Gun Dog Podcast, host Grayson Guyer shares insights from his summer training sessions with various dogs, discusses the breeding journey of his dog Winnie, and delves into his philosophy on dog training. He emphasizes the importance of mastering foundational skills, the role of play in training, and the value of emulating successful methods. Grayson also reflects on the journey of learning and the significance of keeping training engaging and enjoyable for both the trainer and the dog.

Visit my website: https://losthighwaykennels.com/

Please consider becoming a Patron: https://patreon.com/losthighwaykennels?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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31 min
July 02, 2025 Back to Basics
Summary

In this episode of the Companion Gundog podcast, host Grayson Guyer reflects on his personal connection to a local reservoir, the importance of public land and conservation efforts, and his evolving philosophy on dog training. He discusses the balance between modern training methods and traditional techniques, emphasizing the value of simplicity and personal interaction with dogs. Grayson also shares insights on the role of technology in training and the need for a return to basics in a fast-paced world.

Please consider joining my Patreon if you'd like to support this podcast:
https://www.patreon.com/c/losthighwaykennels

Visit my website:
https://losthighwaykennels.com

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43 min
June 02, 2025 What Even is Retrieving?
keywords
fishing, carp, dog training, retrieving, Patreon, social media, hunting, webinars, food-based training, force-fetch
summary
In this episode of the Companion Gundog podcast, host Grayson Guyer shares his experiences and challenges while site fishing for carp. He discusses the preparations he made, including launching a Patreon to support his podcast and share knowledge about dog training. Grayson delves into various retrieving techniques, the social aspects of dog training, and the effectiveness of food-based training systems. He emphasizes the importance of trial and error in training and concludes with a call to action for listeners to support his Patreon.
takeaways
Grayson shares his fishing experiences and challenges.
He discusses the importance of preparation for fishing trips.
Launching a Patreon allows him to share knowledge and cover costs.
Retrieving techniques can vary and should be adapted to the dog.
Social aspects of dog training are crucial for success.
Food-based training systems can be effective for many dogs.
Trial and error is a natural part of the training process.
It's important to maintain a moral compass in training.
Different training methods can coexist and be beneficial.
Support from listeners helps sustain the podcast and its content.
titles
Fishing for Carp: A Journey of Patience
Navigating the Waters of Dog Training
Sound Bites
"I have not done that in three years."
"Retrieving is a big picture type of deal."
"You should do whatever you want to do."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Carp Fishing and Podcasting Journey
04:12
Launching a Patreon and Sharing Knowledge
08:31
Holistic Approaches to Retrieving
14:12
Understanding Retrieving: Techniques and Perspectives
26:03
Training Systems: Food vs. Force-Fetch Techniques
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36 min
May 09, 2025 Thoughts on Chase in Gundogs. Do we take it out of them?
Keywords
dog training, chase management, predatory sequence, pointing dogs, retrievers, obedience training, summer retrieve camp, dog behavior, training techniques, hunting dogs
Summary
In this episode of the Companion Gundog Podcast, host Grayson Guyer discusses the concept of 'chase' in dog training, particularly in relation to pointing dogs and retrievers. He shares insights from his summer retrieve camp, emphasizing the importance of understanding chase as a part of the predatory sequence. Grayson explores how chase can be both a reinforcement and a management tool in training, detailing techniques for effectively incorporating chase into obedience and hunting scenarios. He concludes with reflections on the evolving nature of training methods and the significance of adaptability in dog training.
Takeaways
Chase is a significant aspect of the predatory sequence in dogs.
Understanding chase can enhance training effectiveness.
Chase can be both a reinforcement and a management tool.
The act of releasing a dog can serve as a powerful reinforcer.
Training should focus on building momentum and excitement.
Chase management is crucial for maintaining a dog's attitude during training.
Different dogs may require different approaches to chase management.
The importance of adaptability in training methods is emphasized.
Engaging with the dog’s natural instincts can improve training outcomes.
The podcast aims to share insights and experiences in dog training.
Titles
The Dynamics of Chase in Dog Training
Harnessing the Power of Chase in Retrievers
Sound Bites
"I want to talk about Chase."
"I want you to want to run."
"Thanks for being with us."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Training Camp
02:10
Understanding the Concept of Chase in Dog Training
08:09
The Role of Chase in the Predatory Sequence
14:02
Chase Management Techniques in Training
19:49
The Importance of Flexibility in Training Methods

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28 min

About Companion Gundog Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Grayson Guyer of Lost Highway Kennels and Emily Shirey of Shorthairs and Shotguns discuss dog training principles and traditions. There will be lessons, stories, interviews, and discussion of…