Fun Pet Gundog Sessions

Fun Pet Gundog Sessions

Whether you’re just beginning the noble art of gundogery, ready to level up your pup’s skills, or craving one-on-one wizardry tailored just for you—our trilogy of classes is here to transform your dog from “What’s that?” to “Aha!” with plenty of laughs, sniffy adventures, and tail wags along the way. Just good vibes and better dogs.

The Rather Splendid Pet Gundog Beginners Course

  • 4 weeks (1 session per week, 75 minutes each — unless distracted by squirrels or impromptu doggy drama)

  • Max 4 dogs (small-batch chaos, maximum focus)

  • Absolutely any age, level, or breed — from wide-eyed puppies to wise old spaniels who’ve “seen things.”

    No prior gundog-ing required.

    Just bring your dog and a sense of humour.

  • To gently introduce you and your delightful dog to foundational gundog skills in a way that’s fun, positive, science-based, and completely free of shouting.

    We’ll build connection, boost confidence, and let your dog live their best sniffy, retrieve-y life — in just four weeks of tail-wagging brilliance.

  • We’ll introduce gundog foundations with a focus on fun, connection, and confidence. Expect nose boops, wags, and training that’s all about partnership — not perfection.

    You’ll teach your dog that coming back is cooler than chasing pigeons, and the noble art of bringing stuff back (without detouring through Narnia).

    We’ll also gently tackle those “creative interpretations” of recall and start helping your dog walk like a champ, not a comet on a string.

    Basic obedience (the kind that actually works when you need it)

    • Lead handling that doesn’t feel like waterskiing

    • Breed-specific enrichment to satisfy their inner working dog

  • All classes now held at the fabulous Ace Dog Field,
    Itchington Rd, Itchington, Bristol BS35 3TL


    Secure, spacious, and perfect for training shenanigans of the highest order.

The Rather Splendid Pet Gundog Private Tutelage

  • 60 minutes of personalised training.

  • Just you, me and your dog - no extras, no distractions

  • Has your dog mastered the basics but still insists on starring in their own comedy sketch? Fear not! This bespoke one-on-one session is designed for you and your canine companion to tackle your specific challenges — from elusive retrieves to recalls that wander off into the Kingdom of Narnia.

    With no distractions (except possibly a suspiciously charming squirrel), you’ll get personalised guidance, clever tips, and maybe even a jolly good laugh. All the fun, none of the chaos — because every splendid pup deserves their own royal tutor.

  • This isn’t your average dog training shindig—it’s all about you and your dog’s unique adventure. Tailored sessions focus on exactly what you want to work on—be it sharpening that elusive retrieve, polishing recall to “royal decree” standards, or charmingly managing those “creative” moments that make you chuckle (or cry).

    Together, we’ll help you both shine with the confidence and flair worthy of the finest of gundogs. No distractions, no silly sidekicks—just you, your dog, and a jolly good plan.

  • Monday 8th September 12:15 - 13:15 and 13:15 - 14:15

    Monday 29th September 2:15 - 13:15 and 13:15 - 14:15

    Held at Ace Secure Dog Field, Itchington (A38 Thornbury)

  • Not a bit! This course is for total beginners — no whistles, tweed, or brace of pheasants required.

    We’ll guide you both from the ground up using kind, science-based methods.

    Think: retrieve with joy, not pressure.

  • All sorts!

    While gundog breeds (like spaniels, retrievers, pointers, and their glorious crosses) tend to love it, any dog who enjoys sniffing, chasing, carrying, or being brilliant in general is welcome.

    Age doesn’t matter — we’ve had pups, teenagers, and older dogs find their sparkle here.

    • Your dog (obviously)

    • A regular flat collar or well-fitted harness

    • A lead (not a flexi, unless you enjoy shoulder dislocations)

    • Lots of soft, tasty treats (think sausage, not cardboard kibble)

    • A favourite toy if your dog loves a good fetch

    • Water and a bowl

    • Weather-appropriate clothing (yes, sometimes we train in the rain — we're British, after all)

    We provide any specialist gundog gear needed on the day. You just bring the enthusiasm (and maybe a flask of tea).

  • That’s OK!

    Many dogs arrive bouncing like Tigger on espresso — we expect it.

    This class is about building focus and control gently, not demanding perfection.

    If your dog is a bit over-the-top but friendly, they’ll fit right in.

    If your dog is worried by other dogs or struggles in groups, just pop me a message and we’ll see if a quieter intro or 1:1 support might be best.

  • Life happens — dogs eat schedules.

    If you miss a class, we’ll send you a summary and practice suggestions so you’re not left behind.

    While we can’t offer refunds for missed sessions, catch-up options or 1:1s can sometimes be arranged at a discounted rate.

  • Absolutely.

    This course is about pet gundog training — taking the instincts many dogs already have and giving them purpose in a positive, structured, and totally non-hunting environment.

    No feathers, no firearms, just fetch with flair.

  • Yes — but not like boot camp.

    A few short sessions during your week (5–10 mins at a time) will help your dog build on what we’ve covered.

    We'll show you how to fit it into your real life — whether that's garden games, sofa-fetch, or “sit” while you’re boiling the kettle.

  • Currently, dates are on pause — but fear not!

    You can express interest now and be the first to hear when we open the next set of spaces. Just send us a woof (or an email) and we’ll pop you on the waitlist.

    1. Dog safety comes first. Always.
      If the Met Office says the weather is going to be so hot it could fry an egg on a Labrador (red or amber warning, or forecast above 28°C), your class will be cancelled faster than you can say “sizzling sausage”.

    2. Why the panic?
      Because this is Britain. We're not built for 30°C, and neither are your dogs. Most of them arrive in toasty metal boxes with no air-con, then get plonked in a sun trap and told to perform tricks. That’s not training. That’s a slow bake. And we're not into dog-flambé.

    3. What happens when your class gets the chop?
      If class is cancelled due to the impending fireball in the sky, and I can’t reschedule because I’m off gallivanting (also known as “annual leave”), you’ll get an online version of the session instead. Yes, it's not the same as rolling in the grass with your pup, but it's the next best thing.

    You’ll receive:

    • A short video guide (with my dulcet tones) explaining what to do

    • Written step-by-step instructions

    • The option to pester me by email or message if you get stuck

    1. No refunds, no sulking
      This isn’t anyone’s fault, unless you personally control the weather (in which case, we need to have a word). The replacement content covers what you miss, so no refunds will be handed out. Even if you do your best sad face.

    2. By booking a class, you agree to this policy.
      That means when the sky turns into a furnace, you won’t complain about missing your in-person session. You’ll pour yourself a cool drink, watch the online guide, and thank your past self for choosing a trainer who doesn’t cook dogs.