The River Diaries

River previously known as Bonnie

At just 20 months old, River joined me from Labrador Lifeline. She came to them after being removed from a home where she was at risk of being put to sleep. That was her past, but it won't define her future. From now on, River is simply part of my pack. While her history might explain her journey to me, her future will be shaped by her training, care, and dedication. I'll work with her to prepare for tests and field work, helping her reach her full potential. River is no longer a "rescue dog"; she's my dog, and she'll be treated with the same focus and respect as any other in my care. Her training will reflect her abilities and not her past struggles.

What to Expect

In this video series, "Rivers Diary," you will learn how to train specific routines and drills. Each session focuses on essential core training exercises, showing proper techniques step by step. Along the way, I’ll include common mistakes and challenges you’re likely to face. You’ll see honest examples of errors, helping you recognise and correct them in your training. By watching, you will understand not just what to practise, but also how to adapt when things don’t go as planned. These videos are designed to provide clear, practical guidance without skipping the less polished parts of the process. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this series is a transparent look at the ups and downs of developing solid routines.

New enviroments are Essential

Working on the Back Command

Straight Line

Four in a Row

Straight line to the Blind

Follow up to previous video

Pen and Ditch from a different perspective

Body Language

Heel Work

Introducing the Rabbit Dummy

Introducing Water to River

River-Trained like a Champion

Training your dog is an ongoing process, but this is where we end Rivers Diaries. We've shared her journey from the beginning all the way to the goal: running her in scurries and tests. This won’t be the last time you see her, so please keep an eye on my social media as we continue moving her forward.

The River Diaries

River previously known as Bonnie

What to Expect

Series One

The Early Days

Introduction

Foundations

Focus

The Sheep

Heel Work

A Natural Follower

Building the Distance

Fine Tuning

Patience

Multiple Retrieves

Exposure

Result

Off lead with Thor

Confidence

Steadiness on the Multiple

Game Play

Series Two

First time on the Dummy Launcher

Tests and Elements

Multiple Retrieve

More Patience

Ignoring the obvious Retrieve

Straightline Marked Retrieve

Long Multiple Marked Retrieves

Second Run on the Long Marked Retrieve

Bonus Episode

Series Three

First Game shoot with River

Preparing the Gamebird for Training

Feather Dummy

Full Pheasant Retrieves

Continuing with the Feather

Last session on the feather

A fight against the wind

A marked retrieve with added Patience work

Everyday Training

Building the Straightline

Series Four

New enviroments are Essential

Working on the Back Command

Straight Line

Four in a Row

Straight line to the Blind

Follow up to previous video

Pen and Ditch from a different perspective

Body Language

Heel Work

Introducing the Rabbit Dummy

Introducing Water to River

River-Trained like a Champion

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