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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, we dive deep into the critical skill of marking with seasoned pro trainer Dan Ihrke. Dan unpacks what makes a great marking dog, from visual focus and memory to factors like terrain, timing, and training setups. With his no-nonsense approach and decades of experience, Dan shares practical strategies for developing marking skills that hold up under pressure. Whether you're running started dogs or fine-tuning finished retrievers, this episode offers valuable insight into the art, science, and mindset behind great marking work.
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with his mentor Dan Ihrke for an in-depth conversation about one of the most critical — and misunderstood — parts of retriever training: force fetch. They break down every step of the process, from fun fetch foundations to solving tough problems like the dreaded "hover" at the line. Dan shares insights on energy control, teaching avoidance learning, and why building success through clear, incremental steps is key. If you’ve ever struggled through force fetch or felt stuck in your training, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and practical solutions you can apply right away.
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with rising retriever star Leah Spivey to dive deep into her incredible journey through the hunt test and SRS world. From her early days hunting with family to working alongside top trainers like Justin Hergert and Owen Hall, Leah shares how she transitioned from being a casual dog lover to one of the sport’s most consistent amateur handlers.
They talk about her champion dog Kane, learning to "jockey" dogs in high-pressure competitions, the critical importance of reading a dog's body language, and the value of surrounding yourself with a great team. Plus, Leah gives a behind-the-scenes look at balancing a career with her passion for dogs, her growing pack of six retrievers, and why she's passionate about supporting youth handlers in the sport.
Get ready for a candid, inspiring conversation packed with practical tips, a few laughs, and a whole lot of heart. -
In this episode of The Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud welcomes members of his training group — Bill Chittenden, Josh Munson, and a late drop-in from Tyler Brenner — to reflect on their recent HRC Judges Seminar experience and share key takeaways for handlers and aspiring judges alike. From misinterpreted rules to lighthearted debates about touching your dog before calling "ready," it's an insightful look into the rulebook and how it applies in the field.
In the second half, the crew dives into the nitty-gritty of group training — the dynamics, challenges, and unspoken code that make it work. Learn how they structure setups for dogs at different levels, the importance of walkie-talkies (or just good ol' AirPods), and how camaraderie, communication, and a little bit of chaos keep their sessions productive and fun.
Whether you're training solo or thinking of joining a group, this episode’s full of practical wisdom, laughs, and a few stories that'll hit home for any handler.
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, we sit down with Lenny Gums, an HRC judge, amateur retriever trainer, and the man behind one of the most unique missions in the dog world—finding and rescuing lost dogs using drones. Lenny shares how his passion for retrievers led him into judging and training, but it’s his rescue work that truly sets him apart. Lenny walks us through the emotional highs, technical challenges, and unforgettable stories from the field. This episode is about heart, service, and the incredible bond between people and their dogs.
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In this episode of The Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, we sit down with John, the winner of the prestigious Amateur Crown Championship. John takes us through his incredible journey to the top, sharing the challenges, strategies, and key moments that led to his big win. From the dedication it takes to compete at the highest level to the training philosophies that shaped his success, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone passionate about retriever sports. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or a seasoned handler, you won’t want to miss John’s firsthand account of what it takes to claim a championship title.
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The Hunt Test Hobo Podcast is back! In this Season 2 premiere, host Chris Rud sits down with retriever training powerhouse Clark Kennington to talk about the highs and lows of last season, the evolution of retriever training, and what it takes to build a champion. Clark shares insights on balancing pressure and praise, adjusting training methods for different dogs, and the lessons learned from the Master National and The Crown. Plus, a little bourbon talk and some fun waterfowl debates. Tune in for an episode packed with knowledge, stories, and laughs!
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo podcast, I sit down with five-time Crown Champion Mike Gibson to discuss his favorite drills for preparing retrievers for competition. Mike shares invaluable insights into how he uses creative drills to fine-tune his dogs, focusing on alignment, handling, and the critical importance of communication between handler and dog. Whether you're a seasoned handler or just starting out, this episode is packed with strategies that will take your training to the next level.
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Jeff Coats, waterfowl guide and decoy carver, joins the show to share his experiences in the field. Learn how he balances hunting, retriever training, and his craft, as well as tips for the upcoming season.
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In this episode, Chris Rud welcomes Bob Owens from the popular Lone Duck Gun Dog Chronicles podcast. They dive into Bob’s journey from starting his podcast to becoming a professional retriever trainer, sharing tips on transitioning dogs from hunt tests to field trials. Bob breaks down the key differences between Master-level hunt tests and the challenges of qualifying field trials, offering practical advice on preparing for national events. They also discuss strategies for peaking your dog’s performance for big competitions, training for real-world factors like long water entries, and managing a dog’s mental game. Whether you're a pro or amateur, this episode delivers valuable insights on taking your retriever training to the next level.
https://loneduck.podia.com/
To get a discount on Bob's Force Fetch course use hobo20 -
In this episode, host Chris Rud is joined by retriever trainer Jeremy Legge of Hickory Hills Retrievers for an in-depth discussion on preparing for the Grand. Despite both Chris and Jeremy not running this year's Grand, they break down the essential steps and tips for ensuring your dog is ready for the challenge. From mastering down-the-shore blinds to handling in tough water, managing distractions, and honing gun-swing techniques, the duo shares their personal experiences and practical advice. Whether you're prepping for your first Grand or fine-tuning your dog's performance, this episode is packed with actionable insights for handlers at every level.
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In this episode, host Chris Rud sits down with Mike Herd, the marketing and PR specialist for the AKC Master Amateur Retriever Club, as they dive deep into the world of retriever competitions. Mike shares stories from his career as a broadcast meteorologist and amateur dog trainer, offering insights on the differences between the Master National and the Master Amateur Invitational. They discuss the training and preparation needed for national-level events, along with tips for balancing professional and personal life while navigating the retriever game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this episode is packed with knowledge, humor, and encouragement for anyone passionate about the sport. Tune in for a lively and informative conversation!
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud welcomes Jim Templeton, an Arkansas-based amateur retriever trainer. The conversation kicks off with Chris sharing his recent life changes, including a job transition and a chaotic move, before diving into Jim's journey in dog training. Jim shares how he got started in retriever training in the early 1990s, his experiences in balancing hunting with family life, and the evolution of his training methods over the years. They discuss the importance of understanding a dog's pedigree, particularly focusing on the significance of the dam (female dog) in breeding decisions. Jim also talks about his dog, Ice, who has achieved significant success, including passing the Grand at 19 months old and earning seven Grand passes overall. The episode wraps up with insights on training techniques, the importance of patience in dog training, and a discussion about their experiences with hunt tests and field trials.
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with Barton Ramsey of Southern Oak Kennels to dive deep into one of the most talked-about topics in the retriever world: the debate between American Bred Labradors and British Bred Labradors. They discuss the key differences between the two, exploring how breeding, temperament, and training methods influence a dog's performance. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding the standards of testing and trialing when selecting your next retriever. Whether you're a seasoned handler or new to the world of Labrador retrievers, this episode offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision and perhaps not bash the other side :)
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with Elliot Snider, an amateur handler with a unique background in the gundog world. Elliot shares his journey from discovering retriever training to navigating the complexities of the sport. They dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of balancing family life with the demands of training top-notch retrievers. Elliot also offers valuable insights into his training philosophy, the importance of patience, and how his experiences as a teacher have shaped his approach to working with dogs. Whether you're a seasoned handler or new to the sport, this conversation is packed with fun and inspiration.
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In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with renowned retriever trainer Steve Earick to delve into the advanced techniques and methodologies that have made him a leader in the field. Steve shares his journey, the philosophies that guide his training, and practical tips for handlers at all levels. From understanding a dog’s psychology to refining training routines, this conversation offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to elevate their retriever’s performance. Whether you're a seasoned handler or just starting, Steve's insights are invaluable for achieving success in the world of retriever training. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business.
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Welcome to another exciting episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast! In this episode, host Chris Rud is joined by the insightful and experienced Clark Kennington. As a recurring guest and a well-respected figure in the retriever training community, Clark shares his journey to the Master National, offering invaluable tips and stories from the field.
Tune in as Clark and Chris discuss the intricacies of retriever training, from the challenges faced at the Jim Manson SRS to the strategic preparations for major competitions. Clark opens up about his recent experiences running multiple dogs in trials, the importance of adapting training techniques, and the balance between handler and dog communication.
Whether you’re a seasoned handler or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring anecdotes that will help you and your retriever excel in the game. Don’t miss Clark’s expert insights on mastering the art of retriever training and overcoming the hurdles on the road to success. -
In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud sits down with amateur trainer John Robertson for an in-depth discussion on retriever training. John shares his journey from dabbling in retriever training to achieving multiple prestigious titles with his dogs. They delve into the nuances of various retriever competitions, the importance of thorough training, and the lessons learned from early amateur mistakes. Whether you're a seasoned handler or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration from an accomplished amateur's perspective.
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In this special replay episode, Chris Rud, the host of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, shares his story and journey in the hunt test game as a guest on Barton Ramsey's podcast, The Lab. Dive into an in-depth conversation where Chris talks about his unique nickname "Hunt Test Hobo," his approach to retriever training, and the adventures that come with being an amateur handler. This episode also offers a glimpse into Chris's background, his transition from youth pastor to film company owner, and his passion for cooking on the road. Join Chris and Barton as they discuss the trials, triumphs, and tips for anyone involved in the retriever game. Whether you're just starting or are a seasoned handler, this two-hour episode is packed with insights, stories, and a lot of fun.
Tune in to get to know Chris Rud better and enjoy this engaging and informative conversation that covers everything from dog training to delicious campfire cooking. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hear from one of the most passionate voices in the retriever community. -
In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud sits down with Tyler Brenner, a dedicated and passionate young professional in the retriever training world. Tyler shares his journey from a teenager intrigued by hunting and animals to becoming a seasoned pro, working closely with renowned trainer Dan Ihrke. They delve into the challenges and triumphs of retriever training, the importance of having a solid hunting background, and the invaluable lessons learned from countless hours in the field. Tyler’s engaging stories and practical advice make this episode a must-listen for both novice handlers and experienced trainers alike. Whether you're navigating the heat of the summer training sessions or strategizing for the next hunting season, Tyler's insights will inspire and educate. Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the game.
- Visa fler
