The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast

  In this episode, we dive deep into the path toward earning AKC Field Champion (FC) and Amateur Field Champion (AFC) titles for pointing breeds. I break down the point schedule in detail, explain retrieving credits, and clarify how juvenile points factor into the journey. Plus, we explore the amateur-to-open crossover points. If you're looking for a quick guide of how to earn AKC field trial titles, this is it!    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast covers hunting events for pointing breeds. We are sponsored by onX Hunt and Elevate Pet Provisions. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, I interview Chris Ingram, Marketing Promotions Manager for the United Kennel Club, to talk about the rich legacy of The American Field—a cornerstone publication in the pointing dog world since 1874. We dive into its evolution and the exciting launch of its next chapter: the American Field Sportsman's Journal. This newly revamped 100-page printed magazine honors the 151-year tradition while bringing fresh energy to the stories and heritage of hunting and working dogs. From bird dogs and retrievers to hounds and beagles, the AFSJ celebrates the enduring bond between hunters and their canine companions through in-depth articles, beautiful photography, and timeless storytelling. Spoiler alert: I have written an article which will appear in the Summer 2025 issue! If you'd like to subscribe to the new American Field Sportsman's Journal, go to journal.americanfield.com. To get in touch with Chris, you can email him at editor@americanfield.com. --- The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast covers hunting events for pointing breeds. We are sponsored by onX Hunt and Elevate Pet Provisions. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

  Jerry DeRose, AKC retriever hunt test judge, joins me again to talk about the Senior Hunter level. We discuss the differences between Junior and Senior and what kind of training your dog needs in order to pass the SHR level. These are challenging tests but could be a good option for a pointing dog who is experienced with blind retrieves or has run the NAVHDA Invitational.   You can get in touch with Jerry on Facebook at Calm Focused K9s – DeRose Kennels. -- The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast covers hunting events for pointing breeds. We are sponsored by onX Hunt and part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

Dan Wittman, NAVHDA's Director of Testing, joins me to talk about the new Gun Dog Test, which replaces the Utility Preparatory Test. We discuss how this test is designed to keep NAVHDA members engaged after the Natural Ability level and seems to be a positive change for the organization. Tune in to hear how the Gun Dog Test works and how it's different from the old UPT.   To get in touch with Dan, you can email him at testdirector@navhda.org. The revised Aims Programs Test Rules book can be downloaded at navhda.org/aims-programs-test-rules   The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast covers hunting events for pointing breeds. Our sponsors are OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In the second installment of Tales of Accidental Bird Dogs, we sit down with Cristina Ralph, a passionate dog owner and trainer who's fully embraced the world of bird dogs. Cristina is the proud owner of three dogs: two German Shorthaired Pointers, Greta and Blaise, and a Deutsch Kurzhaar named Wednesday. Before diving into bird dog training, Cristina spent years working with Siberian Huskies in pulling sports. When she sought a versatile running partner, she found exactly what she was looking for – and then some – with Greta, her first GSP. Cristina shares her journey from the early days of training Greta for Field Dog Junior tests, where she made plenty of hilarious mistakes, to now, when she's fully immersed in the world of bird dog training. With the addition of Blaise and Wednesday, Cristina's dedication to her bird dogs has only deepened, and she's now gearing up for a new adventure—breeding Wednesday. You can follow Cristina on Instagram at @gretablaiseandwednesday. Her kennel website is www.vomzamora.ca . She's also putting on introductory field seminars with a friend through her company, Hunting in Harmony. Check them out on Instagram and Facebook @huntinginharmony. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

Professional handler and trainer Tammy Chaffee of Pioneer Kennels joins me to talk about Cover Dog trials. These are unique walking field trials run on wild grouse and woodcock under UKC/American Field rules. In this episode, we explore how these trials differ from traditional horseback trials with pen-raised birds, what judges are looking for, and the unpredictable challenges of working in thick cover.  You can get in touch with Tammy via her Pioneer Kennels Facebook page.  For more information about Cover Dog trials, check out the Cover Dog Field Trial Message Board or the Cover Dogs Facebook group.  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, we dive into the world of AKC hunting tests for retrievers, with a focus on the Junior level. Originally designed for retriever breeds like Labradors and Goldens, these tests are open to pointing breeds as well. If your dog has a solid retrieve and a strong obedience foundation, they could be a great fit for these tests. I sit down with Jerry DeRose, an experienced AKC hunting test judge from Minnesota, to break down the different components of the test and share tips on how to set your dog up for success. To get in touch with Jerry, find him on Facebook or visit his kennel page. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my journey to become an AKC hunting test judge for pointing breeds. I walk through the requirements for becoming a judge, share my experience apprenticing at a recent hunting test, and reflect on the key takeaways from the experience. Tune in for insights into the judging process, what I learned along the way, and why I enjoyed watching the dogs and handlers. In the intro, I mention the scentwork course I am hosting with Tamara from Canine Development & Testing and Mike from Ugly Dog Hunting. The course starts February 3rd and registration is now open! Here's the link to register: https://caninedevelopmentandtesting.mykajabi.com/birddogdetection The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

This episode kicks off a new series for the podcast! Every few episodes, I will be featuring interviews with other people who got bird dogs as pets and then got into hunting later because of their dogs. The first tale of a fellow accidental bird dog owner is Sara Kline. Sara lives in Alaska with her three dogs: a vizsla named Jack, and two Deutsch Drahthaars named Dicky and Rufus. Sara originally got Jack as a running buddy when she lived in England, but it wasn't long before Jack decided he liked pointing pheasants along their runs, too. Sara has grown a lot in her journey training her dogs and is very forthcoming about the mistakes she's made along the way and how she's trying to use the lessons she's learned with her new puppy. Sara's story is very relatable and I know you will enjoy it!  You can follow Sara on Instagram at @journeyswithgundogs. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

This is the last episode of 2024! Thanks to everyone who has listened this year. In this episode, I answer questions about Zara and Lanka, the priority I place on wild bird hunting, and what I'm looking forward to in 2025. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, I interviewed Carl Correra, who is an AKC field trial judge and competitor. Last year, I had the honor of watching Carl and his 12 year old GSP, Fancy, participate in the inaugural AKC Master Hunter Excellent test. Fancy tore up the course, was steady as a rock, and had all the participants cheering for her. As someone who has unintentionally been competing with an older dog due to our late start, I've found myself being worried about her age. I think there's a lot of misconception out there about what is possible for a dog who is 10+. Carl and I discuss considerations to keep your older bird dog going strong even as they age.  You can email find Carl on Facebook or send him an email: cvcorrera@yahoo.com.  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, I discuss how I went about preparing for the NAVHDA Natural Ability test with my puppy, Lanka. I also give a recap of the highs and lows on test day—including when 4-month-old Lanka went a little rogue! Listen for a behind-the-scenes look at how Lanka's first bird dog event went. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

In this episode, I discuss my training journey with Zara, sharing the real, sometimes unfortunate mistakes I made along the way—and the valuable lessons I learned from them. From challenges with steadiness and retrieving to issues with honoring, duck searches, and the blind retrieve, I dive into the struggles that come with training your first dog. The good news is, I learned a lot and managed to recover from most of these setbacks—though it certainly took time! Now, as I start training my new puppy, Lanka, I'm applying these lessons to make sure I do things differently this time around. Tune in to hear my honest reflections and get insights you can use to avoid common training pitfalls with your own bird dog. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

For this episode, I am joined by Dr. Carol Gillis, a rehab veterinarian and ultrasound specialist based in Aiken, South Carolina. Dr. Gillis has many years of experience helping horses and dogs recover from injuries, including my vizsla, Zara! She shares invaluable insights and unique strategies to keep canine athletes in peak condition. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting out, this conversation is full of tips to prevent injuries in hunt test, field trial, and hunting dogs.  You can reach Dr. Gillis through her website: equineultrasound.com.  The Supreme Top Form joint supplement is available at panamvetcorp.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

Zara was diagnosed with a major injury early this year – bilateral iliopsoas strains/tears. In this episode, I talk about how she went from being an extremely active 10 year old dog to a rehab patient having to endure months of restricted exercise and rehab. It was a tough process for both of us but thankfully she is doing much better now. I discuss how I think the injury originated and everything I did to help her recover. This episode sets the stage for the next one which will cover prevention of injury for canine athletes. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

Experienced horse trainer and field trialer Meredith Mays joins me to discuss the art of scouting in American Field/UKC and AKC field trials. Meredith provides insight on a scout's responsibilities, the characteristics that make a good scout, and what makes a dog challenging to scout for. Meredith is passionate about encouraging people new to field trials and making the sport enjoyable for everyone.   If you'd like to reach out to Meredith, find her on Facebook.    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

This is the companion to the previous episode, Dealing with Failure. It might seem weird to talk about "dealing" with success, because, after all, isn't success a good thing in the context of dog sports? But success is not always as straightforward as you might think.    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

If you're participate in hunting events long enough with your bird dog, "failure" is inevitable – meaning, not passing a test, earning a placement, or failing to meet your expectations. In this episode, I talk about some failures I've experienced and how I dealt with them. Realizing how to learn from failure and using it to make you and your dog better is important. Hopefully this episode will provide some useful tips for the next time you're dealing with some disappointment after competing with your dog. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network.

This episode is part 2 going into detail about the Versatile Hunting Dog Federation (VHDF). Kyle Hough chats with me about the three levels of testing and what is required at each level. While the tests have similarities to the NAVHDA and JGHV systems, there are distinct differences.   You can contact Kyle through the Northeast chapter of the VHDF. Visit https://northeastvhdf.wildapricot.org/ The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Jeff Funke joins me to discuss the VHDF, an organization that was founded in 2007 with the intention to take the best parts of existing testing systems and make a series of tests that really reflected the versatile hunting dog in North America. The VHDF's scoring system allows for a lot of nuance and is able to highlight exceptional dogs, which is a plus for breeders who are trying to breed better hunting dogs.   You can contact Jeff via email jfunke3dk@gmail.com. For more information about the VHDF, visit https://versatilehuntingdogfederation.wildapricot.org.   The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

  Gretchen Stephenson joins me again to talk about the Shooting Ratings tests for Weimaraners. These field events were developed in the 1950s as a way to objectively evaluate the hunting skills of Weimaraners and are put on by the Weimaraner Club of America. AKC's hunting tests for all pointing breeds were actually based on these tests! There are distinct differences, however, which we discuss.     You can get in touch with Gretchen on Facebook, via email at gretchen.stephenson@gmail.com or view her website at caninemannersandmore.com.    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Gretchen Stephenson, Weimaraner owner, breeder, and trainer, joins me to talk about Retrieving Ratings tests for Weimaraners. These events were developed in the 1950s as a way to objectively evaluate the hunting skills of Weimaraners and are put on by the Weimaraner Club of America.    You can get in touch with Gretchen on Facebook, via email at gretchen.stephenson@gmail.com or view her website at caninemannersandmore.com.    The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Some consider wild bird hunting to be superior to tests and trials involving pen-raised birds. But for many people, hunting events have their place as well. In this episode, I discuss the value of tests and trials as well as transitioning between these events and hunting. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Summer is often a lull period between testing and trialing seasons. When it's hot and humid and there isn't always access to birds, you may be wondering what to work on with your bird dog. This episode covers some ideas of things to do during the summer months. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website   

Mike Neiduski, owner of Ugly Dog Hunting company and Senior NAVHDA judge, joins me to talk about becoming a NAVHDA judge. We discuss his experiences going through the Apprentice Program, including why he decided to become a judge, what it was like to apprentice for the first time, and what he enjoyed the most about being an apprentice. We also get into his journey becoming a Senior judge and what the future may hold.   Mike also hosts the Ugly Dog Podcast. You can find him on Instagram, Facebook, or Tiktok. And you can visit his website or send him an email at info@uglydoghunting.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website   

  Did you know that you can always handle your dog from foot in an AKC horseback field trial? In this episode I discuss some considerations and ways to prepare yourself to be a walking handler in a horseback stake. Even if you might be at a slight disadvantage, your dog can still be successful. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website   

  I interviewed UFTA judge Brian Cooney about United Field Trialers Association field trials. We discussed the different divisions, the rules, and why he likes this field trial game over others.   You can find Brian on Instagram @wingshotandfall. For more information about UFTA, check out their website at ufta-online.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

In this episode, I talk about running multiple kinds of events with your pointing dog. Some people say you can't run a field trial dog in hunt tests or NAVHDA and vice versa, but that's not always true. If you're going to transition between different types of events, what are some considerations to think about in training? How do you keep the rules straight? The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This is the final part of a three-part series discussing the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system. I interviewed Cortney Schaefer about the VGP test, which is the finished versatile hunting dog test. This is a two-day test that encompasses 20+ test subjects and is typically run by dogs between 18 and 36 months of age. Cortney has been a JGHV judge since 2013 and currently owns and breeds Deutsch Drahthaars. You can reach Cortney on Instagram or via her website.

This is part two of a three-part series discussing the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system. I interviewed Tanya Gates about the HZP test, which is the fall advanced natural ability test intended for dogs approximately 10 to 24 months. The HZP involves more training than the VJP but is not quite as involved as the finished dog VGP test. Tanya has an interesting perspective since she owns a breed that is less commonly seen in JGHV testing (Hungarian Wirehaired Vizslas). She's also participated in the HZP in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. You can reach Tanya on Facebook, Instagram, or via her website. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode kicks off a three-part series diving into the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system, which is often referred to as the "German testing" system in the U.S. I interviewed Jennifer Wapenski about the VJP test, which is the lowest level intended for puppies approximately 6 to 18 months. We discussed the different components of the test as well as some tips to have a successful test day. You can reach Jennifer by email, on Instagram, or via her website. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This week, I had a conversation with Jeremy Cormier of V3 Gun Dogs & Canine Academy in Lebanon, CT. Jeremy is a professional trainer who trains and runs bird dogs in hunt tests and field trials. We discussed the differences between handling your dog yourself or using a professional. Both can be a good option depending on your experience, the time you have, and your goals. Check out Jeremy and V3 Gun Dogs on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Recently, I attended an AKC field trial with my vizsla, Zara. In this episode, I go into detail about each of her runs so you can get a sense of the variety of situations that can happen when you are running your dog and how your decision-making can impact the outcome. There were good things, bad things, and thankfully, no ugly things – but a crazy situation with a bird I haven't seen before. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode continues my conversation with Laura Miller about AFTCA field trials. We cover how to earn titles, the community aspect of the trials, and technicalities involving relocating a dog on point and retrieving. You can reach out to Laura on Facebook through her CH Lundy's Red Bull for American Field Hall of Fame page. For more information on the AFTCA guidelines, check out the Standards to Field Trial Procedure, Judicial Practice, Handler and Bird Dog Performance.  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode covers AFTCA field trials, which are the amateur side of American Field (now owned by United Kennel Club). This is part one of my conversation with Laura Miller, an accomplished field trial competitor and judge. We discuss the different levels including Puppy, Derby, Shooting Dog, and All-Age and some key differences from AKC trials.  You can reach out to Laura on Facebook through her CH Lundy's Red Bull for American Field Hall of Fame page. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

I'm doing someting a little different for my last episode of 2023. I collected questions from listeners and I'm answering them in this episode. How do I go about training backing? What are some things you can do to help your dog in a hunt test? Will I be getting another bird dog in the future? All of these are answered, and more!  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This week I'm discussing what it's like when you spend a season or several months of the year testing or trialing. How much travel is involved? What are the costs? What does a typical day look like at an event? The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode dives into bird dog events on a national scale, such as the NAVHDA Invitational and the many national field trials. I discuss how they are different than local events and some considerations to think about if you want to enter one of them. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode explains National Shoot to Retrieve Association (NSTRA) field trials. I interviewed Matthew Bass, a NSTRA judge and owner of Stacked Up Kennels, who has been involved in the NSTRA world since he was young child. We discuss how NSTRA trials are set up, how they are scored, and what your dog needs to do to earn a placement. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

In this episode, I interview Doug Ljungren, the Executive Vice President of Sports and Events at AKC. Doug and I talk about a brand-new event called the Master Hunter Excellent Test (MHX). This standards-based test is open to dogs who already have their Master Hunter titles. The rules and judging categories are a little different than the MH test and more emphasis is placed on the hunting ability of the dog.  This test is open for entry until October 26, 2023 at 8PM EST. If you'd like to enter, here is the link to the premium as well as the direct link to the entry form.  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Finding live upland birds as well as ducks can be a challenge, especially if bird growers in your area don't raise them year round. I discuss some alternatives to find birds for training, as well as some options if you aren't able to store birds long-term where you live.  The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

Are you struggling to find a place to train your bird dog for hunting? It can be hard to find a suitable place. Before I got involved in NAVHDA in 2017, I spent a solid year trying to find a place to train Zara for hunting. This involved copious internet searches, Facebook messages, some emails, a few phone calls, and some site visits. It took me two more years to find a place I could access more frequently than once a month. This episode discusses various options to check out when looking for a place to train. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode is not about one specific organization. Instead, I discuss the differences between the beginner/puppy level events and the intermediate/advanced levels. I go into the main components that you need to work on in order to be successful at the upper levels. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This is part two of my conversation with Grayson Guyer about United Kennel Club (UKC) field trials. In this episode, we get into the details about the Gun and Open classes: how they are judged, what titles you can earn, and the differences between the two. To get in contact with Grayson, visit his website or check him out on Instagram. He also hosts his own podcast, the Companion Gun Dog podcast. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. Our newest sponsor is Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode features my first guest: Grayson Guyer, an experienced bird dog trainer who runs Lost Highway Kennels. Grayson and I discuss United Kennel Club (UKC) field trials and he provides some history about the beginning of the program. We also get into the Natural Ability (TAN) and Water Retrieve (WRT) tests. To get in contact with Grayson, visit his website or check him out on Instagram. He also hosts his own podcast, the Companion Gun Dog podcast. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. Our newest sponsor is Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode details ways to help you prepare for the NAVHDA Invitational and set you and your dog up for success. I discuss tips for the field and water sections as well as mentally preparing for this big event! The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Invitational test, which is NAVHDA's highest level of hunt test. It's held once a year at various locations around the country. In this episode, I discuss the various parts of the test. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Utility test, which is a comprehensive test to evaluate finished versatile dogs. I cover the different parts of the test, how the scoring system works, and some tips to help you and your dog have the best experience possible. I also talk about the Utility Preparatory test, which is a scaled down version of the Utility test, and how it differs. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Natural Ability test, which is intended for dogs up to 16 months of age. I cover the different parts of the test, how the scoring system works, and some tips to help you and your dog have the best experience possible. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

When people talk about AKC hunt tests vs. field trials, it seems like the main distinction they emphasize is that hunt tests are judged against a standard, whereas field trials are competitive, and the dogs compete against one another. And that is a big difference. But there are many subtle differences that can have a big impact on your training. I discuss those differences and similarities in this episode. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website 

I discuss some tips for how to be successful in AKC field trials. This includes training for different weather conditions, decisions on when to relocate your dog, and advice for walking in horseback stakes. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: Instagram | Facebook | Website