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#35 What does a 300-year-old family business have to teach us about passion, quality, and preserving our gundog heritage? Ben Skinner, the seventh-generation leader of Skinner's Dog Food, takes us on a fascinating journey from his family's 1688 windmill to their current position as a beloved dog food manufacturer in the UK.

The remarkable story unfolds as Ben shares how his grandfather Stanley operated a traditional grain milling business that was facing bankruptcy when his father Roger, at just 15 years old, was pulled from school to join the struggling company. The pivotal moment came when a customer requested a ton of dog food, leading Roger to create a formula that dogs loved and offered better profit margins than their traditional products. From this humble beginning – literally driving around with bags of dog food in his car – Roger built a reputation for quality that still defines Skinner's today. Their unwavering commitment to formulation over price and direct relationships with customers has earned them devoted followers throughout the gundog community.

Beyond manufacturing dog food, Skinner's has become a cornerstone of the gundog world through their support of competitions like the International Gundog League Field Trial and their own Skinner's World Cup. This prestigious international working test attracts teams from across Europe, most recently held on the Windsor Crown Estate with permission from King Charles III. Ben shares delightful stories of royal connections, including his father accidentally placing his beer in Queen Elizabeth II's spot at lunch, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the UK gundog community.

What truly distinguishes this conversation is Ben's humility and genuine passion for both the family business and the working dog community. Despite regular buyout offers, Skinner's remains fiercely independent because, as Ben explains, "to us it's more than a business, it's a way of life." His vision for preserving gundog heritage while introducing younger generations to the sport resonates powerfully with our mission at Gundog Nation.

Ready to learn more about the fascinating intersection of history, quality nutrition, and gundog tradition? Subscribe to our podcast and join our community of people united to preserve our heritage of gundog ownership. Visit www.gundognation.net to join our email list for newsletters from trainers, vets, and breeders that will help you become a better gundog owner.

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#34 The journey to developing an extraordinary hunting retriever demands more than just basic obedience—it requires a training philosophy built on understanding, patience, and fair expectations. In this captivating conversation with Barton Ramsey of Southern Oak Kennels, we explore the nuanced approach that has established him as one of America's premier British Labrador breeders and trainers.

Barton takes us deep into his training methodology, emphasizing the critical difference between British and American training philosophies while revealing how he's crafted a hybrid approach tailored to American hunting conditions. His perspective challenges conventional wisdom: "That dog didn't wake up today and decide to ruin your day," he shares, highlighting how most training failures stem from inadequate teaching rather than willful disobedience.

What truly sets this episode apart is Barton's masterclass on group steadiness training—his signature technique for developing dogs that remain calm and controlled while others work. Unlike traditional methods where dogs are worked individually and kenneled immediately after, Barton's approach teaches retrievers to self-regulate their excitement, a skill that proves invaluable in real hunting scenarios, particularly in his beloved flooded timber settings.

The conversation weaves through practical considerations like seasonal nutrition adjustments, health management for working dogs, and the complementary relationship between professional training programs and DIY methods like Cornerstone Gundog Academy. Barton's insights into reading canine behavior reveal the profound communication happening between handler and dog that most owners miss entirely.

Whether you're a seasoned handler or contemplating your first retriever, you'll leave this episode with transformative insights about the relationship-centered approach that produces not just skilled hunting companions, but dogs with the steadiness, versatility, and joy that make them exceptional partners in the field and at home. Connect with Barton through Southern Oak Kennels and Cornerstone Gun Dog Academy to discover how his methods can transform your training journey.

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#33 What does it take to become one of retriever training's rising stars at just 30 years old? Luke Cour reveals the mindset and methods behind his remarkable success as we explore his journey from rodeo competitor to SRS Crown Champion.

Growing up as the son of a successful pointer trainer, Luke developed an appreciation for working dogs from an early age. His natural intensity and competitive spirit found an outlet first in rodeo, then in retriever training after purchasing his first Lab to help recover lost doves on hunting trips. Eight and a half years spent learning under renowned trainer Rody Best provided the foundation for what would become his own training philosophy.

Luke offers fascinating insights into what he looks for in promising puppies—with work ethic topping his list. "If they don't have work ethic, it probably automatically means they're not going to be a field champion," he explains. His assessment of a dog's water attitude provides a window into how he identifies potential, while his breeding philosophy emphasizes the importance of quality females over fashionable sires.

What separates this conversation from typical training discussions is Luke's refreshing humility despite his accomplishments. Having won the SRS Crown Championship at just 25 and secured SRS Team of the Year honors for three consecutive years, he still approaches training with a learner's mindset. "Don't be afraid to get educated," he advises aspiring trainers, revealing the character that underlies his success.

Whether you're interested in field trials, hunt tests, or simply developing a better hunting companion, Luke's practical wisdom applies across the spectrum of retriever training. His seasonal migration to North Dakota for summer training and insights into handling both retrievers and pointers round out this compelling look at what it takes to excel in the competitive dog world.

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#32 When your beloved gun dog is miles from civilization with a medical emergency, knowing what to do can mean the difference between life and death. In this illuminating conversation with Dr. Joe Wurster, known throughout the bird dog community as "the bird dog vet," we dive into the specialized world of hunting dog medicine that many urban veterinarians rarely encounter.

Dr. Wurster reveals why he became a veterinarian after a career change from political science – his passion for bird dogs and the hunting community drove him to medicine. This unique perspective allows him to understand both the medical needs of working dogs and the practical realities hunters face in the field. His expertise has earned him the trust of renowned trainers like Ronnie and Susanna Smith, who consider him their go-to veterinarian for their valuable dogs.

The conversation takes a sobering turn as Dr. Wurster discusses pyothorax, a life-threatening condition caused by grass awns that he considers more dangerous than rattlesnake bites. "These dogs go from off their food to dead in a matter of days," he warns, emphasizing the importance of early recognition. His practical advice extends to creating relationships with veterinarians near your hunting destinations, carrying essential medications like metronidazole and cerenia for common travel-related GI issues, and assembling an effective field first aid kit.

Beyond emergency care, Dr. Wurster offers wisdom on nutrition, debunking marketing trends like grain-free diets while advocating for scientifically-researched foods. He shares insights on heat management techniques, including the proper use of rubbing alcohol on paw pads to cool overheated dogs, and discusses the value of genetic testing and health certifications for breeding quality gun dogs.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, this episode provides invaluable knowledge to help keep your hunting companion healthy in the field and at home. Subscribe to Gundog Nation for more expert insights, and visit our website to join our community dedicated to preserving our heritage of gun dog ownership.

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#31 Unlock a fascinating world of canine adventure with Ben Leger, founder of Georgian Bay Shed Dogs and Canadian Antler Dogs, as he reveals the thriving sport of shed hunting. This growing pastime taps into dogs' natural instincts to find and retrieve shed antlers – a behavior even observed in wild wolves and coyotes.

Ben walks us through how this accessible sport has evolved from casual recreation to structured competition through the UKC Elite Shed Dog Series. With championships, titles, and even scholarship opportunities for youth participants, shed hunting has created a vibrant community of dog enthusiasts. What makes this activity particularly appealing is its inclusivity – while Labs dominate the field, Border Collies, Malinois, and even small breeds like Pomeranians can excel with proper training.

The competitive format proves both challenging and exciting: dogs and handlers navigate football field-sized courses containing five hidden antlers, with top competitors completing the challenge in under two minutes. Ben shares invaluable training insights, from avoiding constant commands that might frustrate dogs to using targeted drills that build confidence and independence. His online training program at trainasheddogcom offers structured guidance for handlers looking to develop their dogs' natural talents.

Perhaps most compelling are the heartwarming stories from the shed dog community, including Ben's 11-year-old son who recently beat him in competition by nearly a full minute with their Hall of Fame dog. These personal connections highlight why so many families are drawn to this affordable, accessible sport that strengthens the bond between handlers and their dogs.

Whether you're an experienced gundog owner or simply looking for a new activity to enjoy with your canine companion, shed hunting offers a unique blend of natural instinct, teamwork, and outdoor adventure. Check out Canadian Antler Dogs online to discover how your dog might excel in this rewarding pursuit.

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#030 Ray Voigt brings nearly three decades of retriever training expertise to this enlightening conversation about the evolution of gundog training, handling sensitive dogs, and his journey from Minnesota teenager to professional dog trainer and Purina executive.

With 53 field champions, three National Amateur Champions, and one National Open Champion to his credit, Ray offers rare insights into what separates truly exceptional dogs from the rest. "Some of the best dogs I've had were classified as sensitive, but they were extremely smart," he reveals, explaining how modern training methods have shifted toward teaching rather than pressure. Ray describes how sensitive dogs, when handled properly, often demonstrate superior problem-solving abilities in the field.

The discussion explores Ray's current role managing the retriever, spaniel, and herding segments for Purina ProPlan, where he oversees partnerships with major sporting organizations nationwide. This position keeps him constantly traveling to events—from retriever field trials to border collie competitions—building relationships and supporting the sporting dog community. Ray's lifelong loyalty to Purina stems from seeing their extensive commitment to conservation efforts and dog sports across all disciplines.

Listeners will appreciate Ray's candid assessment of current promising bloodlines in the retriever world, including descendants of Windy City's Mighty Mouse (a 2016 National Field Champion he trained), Mickey and his offspring, and the legendary Floyd the Dog. His practical advice on puppy selection emphasizes knowing not just performance qualities but personality traits that make a dog enjoyable to live with.

Whether you're training for high-level competition or developing a hunting companion, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on reading your dog, adapting your training approach, and building the partnership that leads to success in the field. Join us for this masterclass in gundog training from one of the sport's most accomplished professionals.

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#029 Two Kentucky women are redefining what it means to be hunters in today's world, proving that you don't need to grow up in a hunting family to become passionate about the sport and working with gundogs.

Hannah Hall and Abbie Binzer share their remarkable journeys into hunting, which both began later in life. Hannah, who started in 2021 with a turkey hunt that left her "100% addicted," has since restructured her entire life around hunting opportunities – leaving her corporate HR career for the flexibility of restaurant work that allows her to chase waterfowl across the country at a moment's notice. Abbie balances a full-time career at Toyota with her growing passion for training and hunting with her chocolate Labrador retrievers, proudly earning hunt test titles despite starting as a complete novice.

The conversation explores the unique challenges women face entering the traditionally male-dominated hunting world, the incredible community they've found through social media groups like "Women of Waterfowl," and how hunting with dogs has transformed their perspective on the sport. Both women spoke candidly about their experiences hunting everything from whitetail deer to sandhill cranes, their triumphs and failures in the field, and the special bond that develops when working alongside a well-trained retriever.

Perhaps most compelling is how these women view hunting as more than recreation – it's become their lifestyle and potentially their livelihood. Hannah shares her entrepreneurial plans for waterfowl taxidermy and a fishing guide service, while both discuss how watching their dogs work sometimes brings more satisfaction than the harvest itself. Their enthusiasm for mentoring other women looking to enter the sport offers hope for a more inclusive hunting community.

Whether you're an experienced hunter or someone curious about getting started, their fresh perspective and genuine passion might just inspire you to grab a shotgun, train a retriever, and discover the rewards of hunting for yourself. Listen in and experience hunting through the eyes of a new generation of women changing what it means to be a hunter.

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#028 What separates truly elite dog trainers from the rest? Clark Kennington pulls back the curtain on 20 years of success in the competitive retriever world, revealing that psychological understanding might matter more than traditional pressure-based methods.

As a two-time SRS Crown Champion with over 100 Grand passes to his credit, Kennington explains how the retriever game has evolved dramatically over two decades. Today's better-bred, more intelligent dogs respond to fundamentally different training approaches than their predecessors. "They don't require the use of pressure that they did 20 years ago," he explains, highlighting how the best trainers steadily adapt their methods to match this evolution.

Kennington's most powerful insights revolve around building genuine connections with each dog. Unlike trainers who maintain strict emotional boundaries, he becomes each dog's "biggest cheerleader." This relationship-based approach extends to competition situations, where his pre-run ritual might surprise many handlers: "If I'm in the holding blind about to go run a dog, it's not uncommon for me to have that dog laid over on its back and me rubbing its belly." This counterintuitive approach creates relaxed, confident dogs that perform at their peak.

Drawing from his experience in both retriever work and protection dog training, Kennington articulates a philosophy that emphasizes psychological understanding over dominance: "I want the dog to do the right thing because it wants to do the right thing, more so than I want it to do the right thing because it fears doing the wrong thing." This perspective, coupled with his insights on maintaining consistent standards appropriate to each dog's developmental stage, offers a blueprint for handlers seeking to elevate their training approach.

Whether you're competing at elite levels or simply want to improve your hunting companion's performance, Kennington's balanced methods provide a roadmap for building better relationships and achieving better results with your retriever. Visit www.thehunttestguide.com to learn directly from Clark through instructional videos, courses, and regular Q&A sessions designed for handlers at all experience levels.

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What happens when a Geek Squad technician with an obsessive personality meets a college-educated bird hunter? For Ethan and Kat of Standing Stone Kennels, this unlikely combination sparked a remarkable journey from amateur dog owners to renowned German Shorthair Pointer breeders and trainers.

Their story begins with pure passion. After acquiring their first GSP in 2009, Ethan's meticulous nature took over—watching videos, reading books, working with dogs at every opportunity, even staying unpaid hours at a training facility just to absorb more knowledge. What started as curiosity evolved into opportunity when they moved to Kansas, intending for Ethan to manage grocery stores while training dogs as a hobby. Within months, demand for their training skills transformed their side gig into a thriving full-time business.

What truly sets Standing Stone Kennels apart is their crystal-clear vision: producing "family-oriented versatile hunting companions." Unlike traditional approaches where hunting dogs might be viewed primarily as tools kept in outdoor kennels, Standing Stone prioritizes dogs that excel in both field performance and home life. This philosophy shapes everything from their breeding selections to training methods, creating GSPs that can seamlessly transition from pointing birds to relaxing with family.

The conversation dives deep into the technical aspects of versatile gun dog training, exploring the significant differences between American-bred GSPs and German imports (DKs), socialization practices that create mentally stable dogs, and the critical balance needed between consistency and variety in training. Their insights reveal how thoughtful breeding and proper training create dogs with ideal temperament—high drive in the field with an "off switch" at home.

Ready to apply Standing Stone's methods with your own dog? Visit their YouTube channel for free training videos, check out their comprehensive online courses, or browse their curated selection of training equipment at standingstonesupply.com. Better yet, consider attending one of their in-person seminars to experience their balanced training approach firsthand. Your bird dog—and your family—will thank you.

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In this fascinating conversation with Brent Cowley, Gunner's Event Marketing Specialist, we explore the science and passion behind what many consider the world's safest dog kennels. Brent takes us inside the company's patented double-walled rotomolded design – the only one of its kind – and describes testing that included throwing kennels off cliffs, shooting them with shotguns, and crushing tests where the kennel actually broke a 7,000-pound industrial vice.

The real power of this conversation comes through the stories. Brent shares emotional testimonials from customers whose dogs walked away unharmed from horrific accidents, including rollover crashes where the kennel prevented the truck bed from collapsing into the cab. Beyond crash protection, we explore how these kennels manage temperature extremes, keeping dogs comfortable in both scorching heat and sub-freezing conditions.

There's something special about a company whose mission centers entirely on safety. As Brent explains, "We exist for dogs to be safe." This philosophy extends beyond kennels to everything Gunner creates, from their popular food crates to their newest offerings like bowls and bumpers. Each product must earn the title of "man's best whatever-it-is" before reaching customers.

Whether you're transporting a hunting companion, competition dog, or beloved family pet, this episode offers invaluable insights into keeping them safe on the road. Plus, Brent shares his personal hunting experiences and his journey training his own golden retriever, making this a must-listen for anyone who loves dogs and the outdoors.

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