American Kennel Club (AKC) Hunting Tests for pointing breeds evaluate a dog's natural instincts and trained abilities against a standardized level of field performance rather than in competition with other dogs. At the Junior Hunter (JH) level, tests focus on raw potential and foundational field manners; dogs must demonstrate a keen desire to hunt, show bold quartering, establish a solid point on game birds, and maintain reasonable control without requiring steady-to-wing-and-shot execution or retrieves. As dogs progress to the Senior Hunter (SH) title, expectations increase significantly: a candidate must be steady to wing and shot on pointed game, reliably retrieve harvested birds to hand, demonstrate honor on a bracemate's point, and handle efficiently under the direction of the handler, proving a complete transition from enthusiastic beginner to a polished, dependable gun dog.

Host B.B. chats with Laura Reeves of Pure Dog Talk about the podcast’s 10-year history, its mission to preserve and share purebred dog knowledge, and memorable interviews with expert breeders.

They also discuss expanding into YouTube, the 10th Anniversary Rewind, club partnerships, and the new "Pedigrees to Pups" seminar series to teach practical, start-to-finish breeding skills.

Founded in 2016 by second-generation German Wirehaired Pointer breeder and veteran professional handler Laura Reeves, Pure Dog Talk originated from an urgent desire to capture and preserve the living history, wisdom, and philosophies of senior mentors across the purebred dog fancy before their knowledge was lost to time. Leveraging her background as a competitive debater, journalist, and dog show insider, Reeves envisioned the platform as an accessible audio hub that could educate preservation breeders, exhibitors, and sport enthusiasts while promoting canine health, functional conformation, and legislative advocacy. What began as a weekly interview show quickly evolved into a premier educational archive—reaching over 750 episodes and millions of downloads—and expanding into curated mentorship programs, masterclasses, and parent club features that continue to connect generations of dog lovers worldwide.

In this episode, we sit down with Kenneth Witt—military veteran, dog trainer, and host of the Gundog Nation podcast—for an in-depth conversation on the art, patience, and mindset required to build high-performance hunting companions. Where Gundog Nation started to the future of the podcast. From reading individual dog temperaments and mastering foundation obedience to transitioning field drive into steady retriever and bird dog performance, Ken breaks down how consistency, clear communication, and mutual trust form the backbone of effective canine training. Beyond training techniques, he shares his passion for preserving sporting dog traditions, strengthening community among working handlers, and honoring the deep bond between humans and dogs in the field. For more background on Ken's journey and training philosophy, check out Building a Community of Gundog Owners with Ken Witt. This interview delves directly into his military background, his transition into retriever training, and the founding principles behind Gundog Nation. @gunddognation 

Bringing a puppy home is pure magic, but it can also feel overwhelming! In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about surviving—and thriving—during your puppy’s first 24 hours in their new home.

The big day is finally here! You’ve picked up your new puppy, brought them home, and now you’re wondering... what’s next?

In this episode, we walk you step-by-step through the crucial first day with your puppy to set you both up for long-term success. The key to a happy home and a confident pup comes down to structure, consistency, and a whole lot of patience.

Setting Up for Success: How to introduce your puppy to their new environment without overwhelming them.

Potty Training Day One: Simple strategies to avoid early accidents, recognize sign signals, and reward good behavior right from the start.

Building a Bulletproof Routine: Why routines reduce puppy anxiety and help them adjust to their new family faster.

Crafting the Ideal Schedule: How to balance nap time, play time, potty breaks, and crate training so you both can get a good night’s sleep.

Whether you're a first-time dog owner or adding another pup to your pack, this episode is packed with practical tips to make Day One smooth, stress-free, and memorable!

Tip: Pair this episode with our printable Puppy Daily Schedule Template to keep your household on the same page!

Lets talk about The American Kennel Club (AKC) Virtual Scent Work Test (VSWT) is an accessible, permanent titling program that allows handlers to engage their dogs' natural scenting abilities and earn official AKC suffix titles entirely from home. Unlike standard AKC Scent Work trials that require dogs to search for essential oils in a competitive environment, the virtual program utilizes accessible, everyday items—specifically a ball, a favorite toy, or a dog treat—as target articles. The program is structured into three progressive levels: Beginner (VSWB), Intermediate (VSWI), and Experienced (VSWE). To earn a title at any level, a team must submit unedited video recordings of two separate qualifying search tests to be evaluated by an approved AKC Scent Work judge. This low-impact format is ideal for young puppies (at least four months of age), senior dogs, or handlers looking for a low-stress way to build confidence and bond with their canine partners without leaving their living rooms or backyards. 

AKC Virtual Scent work video for beginner title HIlltop brittany kennel The American Kennel Club's Virtual Scent Work Test (VSWT) program offers a fantastic, low-impact way for owners to bond with their dogs and earn official suffixes right from the comfort of home. Designed to test basic detection skills using common household items like a favorite ball, toy, or treat, the program features three distinct title levels that teams must progress through in order: Beginner (VSWB), Intermediate (VSWI), and Experienced (VSWE). To earn a title at any given level, a team must successfully record and submit unedited videos of two qualifying searches, which are evaluated by an approved AKC Scent Work judge. The setup requires clear documentation, including showing the dog resting in a hidden "blind" while the handler records the placement of the hide inside a living room, bedroom, or backyard. Once a dog successfully passes two separate tests at a level, the title becomes a permanent part of their official AKC pedigree record.

In this captivating video showcasing the foundations of an AKC Scent Work beginner title, an eager English Cocker Spaniel demonstrates the perfect blend of natural drive and precise training. Tail wagging with classic breed enthusiasm, the spaniel methodically works the search area until its nose locks onto a uniquely placed hide: a real shed antler hidden amidst the novice search boundary. The moment the dog pinpoints the exact location, it offers a clear, confident alert to its handler. The handler immediately marks the success with a joyful "Yes!" and rewards the clever spaniel with a high-value treat delivered directly at the source, reinforcing the absolute joy of the game and showing just how fun and rewarding early scent work titles can be.#shorts

#dogcoach #babyanimal #dog #cute #petcenter #babydog This video you will learn how to teach your dog to stay command how to reach your dog. Your puppy also see that it’s not always perfect training and that everything’s gonna be perfectly lined up when training.

English cocker spaniel, retriever

What are the basic commands for your puppy? Here we have a cocker spaniel and English cocker spaniel that is learning the basic commands using a treat reward. Also we have a long line to train with so we’re doing a puppy training with a long line for safety knowing the ins and outs of puppy training #DogCoach #DogTraining #PuppyTraining #Birds#DogShorts #PuppyShorts #Shorts #Girl #DogYourLife #DogCoach. Learn how to go to gunfire and birds the gunshot should be before the birds are on #dogtraining #puppytraining #labpuppy #dog #dogtraining #animals #cute #pets #puppy #puppies #blacklab Build your dogs, confidence and trainability , your puppy is doing great today learning #Hogs #Dog #Pets #Pet #Cute #Fire #Disney #Animals #DogTraining #Dog #DoggyLife #DogLife #Shorts #DogShortShorts #cats

This will help boost their self-esteem. Also, give them a trust in you that you’re leaning them the right way #dog #puppy #puppies #Pets #Animals #DoggyLife #Dog #Cute #Fire #Disney #Shorts #PetShorts #DogShorts #dogs #animals

#mother #baby #babygirl

English cocker spaniel, retriever

What are the basic commands for your puppy? Here we have a cocker spaniel and English cocker spaniel that is learning the basic commands using a treat reward. Also we have a long line to train with so we’re doing a puppy training with a long line for safety knowing the ins and outs of puppy training #DogCoach #DogTraining #PuppyTraining #Birds#DogShorts #PuppyShorts #Shorts #Girl #DogYourLife #DogCoach. Learn how to go to gunfire and birds the gunshot should be before the birds are on #dogtraining #puppytraining #labpuppy #dog #dogtraining #animals #cute #pets #puppy #puppies #blacklab Build your dogs, confidence and trainability , your puppy is doing great today learning #Hogs #Dog #Pets #Pet #Cute #Fire #Disney #Animals #DogTraining #Dog #DoggyLife #DogLife #Shorts #DogShortShorts #cats

This will help boost their self-esteem. Also, give them a trust in you that you’re leaning them the right way #dog #puppy #puppies #Pets #Animals #DoggyLife #Dog #Cute #Fire #Disney #Shorts #PetShorts #DogShorts #dogs #animals

English cocker spaniel puppies

#dogtraining #dogobedience #puppytraining #dogtrainer #labradorretrievertraining #labpuppy #yellowlab #blacklab #puppytraining #labradorretriever #chocolatelab #puppytraining #retrievertraining #labpuppy #retriever #brittanydog #dogshorts #shorts

English cocker spaniel puppies

#dogtraining #dogobedience #puppytraining #dogtrainer #labradorretrievertraining #labpuppy #yellowlab #blacklab #puppytraining #labradorretriever #chocolatelab #puppytraining #retrievertraining #labpuppy #retriever #brittanydog

What do you do when you have puppies?  Let's talk about PUPPY' mommies behavior after having puppies. What to look for when puppies are born. Responsible dog breeding and ownership rely heavily on orthopedic and genetic screening, and clearing dogs through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is the gold standard for preventing heritable diseases. Testing a dog’s hips, elbows, and patellas (kneecaps) allows veterinarians to identify joint laxity, dysplasia, or malformations before clinical signs like painful arthritis or lameness develop. Similarly, OFA cardiac and eye clearances ensure that hidden congenital heart defects or progressive eye diseases (which can lead to early blindness) aren't silently passed down to future generations. Because many of these debilitating conditions are polygenic and can skip generations, relying on a dog "looking healthy" isn't enough; objective OFA testing provides the data needed to make informed breeding decisions, protect the welfare of puppies, and save owners from the emotional and financial heartbreak of preventable chronic illnesses.

Gilmore Girl Cavaliers - Breeder Spotlight - King Charles Cavaliers #dog #puppies In our latest Breeder Spotlight, we sit down with the visionary mind behind Gilmore Girl Cavaliers to explore the passion, dedication, and strict ethics involved in raising the ultimate companion dog: the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This exclusive interview pulls back the curtain on how Gilmore Girl Cavaliers seamlessly balances preserving the breed’s regal elegance and signature, melt-your-heart temperament with a fierce commitment to robust health screenings. From navigating the complexities of cardiac and genetic testing to cultivating the perfectly socialized, velcro-esque family pet, this spotlight captures what truly defines a responsible modern breeder. Whether you are a lifelong devotee of the "Comforter Spaniel" or looking to welcome your very first Blenheim or Tricolor puppy home, this insightful conversation offers an inspiring masterclass in breeding with integrity, heart, and a touch of royal grace. What are the basic commands for your puppy? Here we have a cocker spaniel and English cocker spaniel that is learning the basic commands using a treat reward. Also we have a long line to train with so we’re doing a puppy training with a long line for safety knowing the ins and outs of puppy training #DogCoach #DogTraining #PuppyTraining #Birds#DogShorts #PuppyShorts #Shorts #Girl #DogYourLife #DogCoach. Learn how to go to gunfire and birds the gunshot should be before the birds are on #dogtraining #puppytraining #labpuppy #dog #dogtraining #animals #cute #pets #puppy #puppies #blacklab Build your dogs, confidence and trainability , your puppy is doing great today learning #Hogs #Dog #Pets #Pet #Cute #Fire #Disney #Animals #DogTraining #Dog #DoggyLife #DogLife #Shorts #DogShortShorts #cats This will help boost their self-esteem. Also, give them a trust in you that you’re leaning them the right way #dog #puppy #puppies #Pets #Animals #DoggyLife #Dog #Cute #Fire #Disney #Shorts #PetShorts #DogShorts #dogs #animals At our kennel we place special emphasis on helping dogs reach their full potential through the use of physically and mentally demanding activities. Our primary goal is to help families raise happy, healthy, well socialized, canine companions. We especially love training brittanys, , so don't be surprised when you see Labs of every age, size, shape, and color!!! This video you will learn how to teach your dog to stay command how to reach your dog. Your puppy also see that it’s not always perfect training and that everything’s gonna be perfectly lined up when training. #mother #baby #babygirl English cocker spaniel, retriever What are the basic commands for your puppy? Here we have a cocker spaniel and English cocker spaniel that is learning the basic commands using a treat reward. Also we have a long line to train with so we’re doing a puppy training with a long line for safety knowing the ins and outs of puppy training #DogCoach #DogTraining #PuppyTraining #Birds#DogShorts #PuppyShorts #Shorts #Girl #DogYourLife #DogCoach. Learn how to go to gunfire and birds the gunshot should be before the birds are on #dogtraining #puppytraining #labpuppy #dog #dogtraining #animals #cute #pets #puppy #puppies #blacklab Build your dogs, confidence and trainability , your puppy is doing great today learning #Hogs #Dog #Pets #Pet #Cute #Fire #Disney #Animals #DogTraining #Dog #DoggyLife #DogLife #Shorts #DogShortShorts #cats This will help boost their self-esteem. Also, give them a trust in you that you’re leaning them the right way #dog #puppy #puppies #Pets #Animals #DoggyLife #Dog #Cute #Fire #Disney #Shorts #PetShorts #DogShorts #dogs #animals At our kennel we place special emphasis on helping dogs reach their full potential through the use of physically and mentally demanding activities. Our primary goal is to help families raise happy, healthy, well socialized, canine companions. We especially love training brittanys, , so don't be surprised when you see Labs of every age, size, shape, and color!!! #mother #shorts #dogshorts #dogbehavior English cocker spaniel puppies #dogtraining #dogobedience #puppytraining #dogtrainer #labradorretrievertraining #labpuppy #yellowlab #blacklab #puppytraining #labradorretriever #chocolatelab #puppytraining #retrievertraining #labpuppy #retriever #brittanydog #dogshorts #shorts English cocker spaniel puppies #dogtraining #dogobedience #puppytraining #dogtrainer #labradorretrievertraining #labpuppy #yellowlab #blacklab #puppytraining #labradorretriever #chocolatelab #puppytraining #retrievertraining #labpuppy #retriever #brittanydog