Dog Training
Our regular group training sessions, led by experienced HCCRA members, are focused on developing hunting dogs and their handlers.
We offer semi-structured, hands-on training sessions that emphasize teamwork, discipline, and skills-building. Whether you're just starting out with a young pup or are a seasoned trainer who wants to refine advanced techniques, we welcome participants of all levels.
The key skills and drills we practice include:
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Lining drills to teach dogs to maintain straight paths to targets over varying distances and terrains, improving focus and directional control.
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Retrieving drills that focus on fetch and return, including handling multiple retrieves and dealing with distractions.
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Marking drills to enhance a dog's memory and accuracy in locating fallen game or dummies based on visual cues, often incorporating water and land-based scenarios to mimic hunt tests.
These skills and drills help prepare you and your dog for real-world hunting scenarios and competitive hunt tests.​
Training Schedule
Every third Saturday (weather-dependent)
January through August
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*$10 per dog to cover the cost of training ducks*
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Check our Facebook page for details
Join our email list to receive training day information
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Training is held at Legacy Acres Hunting Club in Parnell, IA.
Training Day Rules
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Be on time.
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It's a team effort! If you're running a dog, then you must also take a turn working a training station. If you're new, we'll teach you.
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Be considerate of line time. Work on a few key concepts and then allow others to take their turn.
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Pay attention to the drill so you understand how it works and how your dog might respond when it's your turn.
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Train your dog at its level, not the group's level.
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Group training time is a great opportunity to work on drills you can't do by yourself; we recommend working on skills like recalls and force fetching at home.
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If your dog doesn't get along well with other dogs, please let us know ahead of time.
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If you've never done this before, don't be afraid to ask questions!
