Upland Foundations (Started Dog)
For pointing and versatile breeds beginning formal field work.
The Upland Foundations Program builds the bridge between obedience and a true hunting partner.
We take young dogs with early drive and instinct and guide them through the process of becoming a steady, controlled, confident upland hunter.
Training focuses on developing pattern, purpose, and composure — transforming natural drive into focused work.
Your dog learns to use the wind, manage range, point birds consistently, and remain composed through flush and gunfire.
This is where instincts are shaped into performance — the program that produces a Started Upland Dog, capable of hunting independently and responsibly.
Training Process & Focus
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Quartering & Range Management: Teaching dogs to hunt for the gun — covering ground efficiently while staying connected.
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Birdwork Development: Repeated live-bird sessions to build intensity, control chase, and create reliable points.
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Steady to Flush: Progressively layered training ensuring dogs hold point through flush, maintaining composure under pressure.
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Backing & Honor Work: Teaching natural cooperation with other dogs, honoring points, and backing on sight.
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Retrieve & Delivery: Conditioning clean bird retrieves and calm hand delivery.
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Field Exposure: Gunfire proofing, obstacles, and real hunting terrain to build confidence and maturity.
Program Goal
By graduation, your dog will:
- Quarter with focus.
- Point and hold birds confidently.
- Remain steady to flush and back on sight.
- Retrieve cleanly and deliver calmly.
- Show composure and control in live bird situations.
This level represents a Started Dog — ready to hunt effectively and confidently under your guidance.
Duration & Pricing
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6–8 Weeks $2,600 – $3,600 CAD
Bird & Training Fees
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Pigeons included
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Chukar / Ducks: Market Price
Booking Information
All bookings are handled through Paw Partner.
A 25 % deposit is required to secure your start date. Balance is due at drop off
Pairs well with
Upland Foundations (Started Dog)
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
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FAQs
Please read our FAQs page to find out more.
What vaccinations and health records are required?
All dogs must be up to date on Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccinations. Records must be submitted at least 48 hours before drop-off. This policy ensures the safety of every dog in our care and complies with our insurance requirements. Dogs showing signs of illness or parasites may be refused for boarding or training until they have been cleared by a veterinarian.
How much exercise, socialization, and outdoor play will my dog get daily?
Every dog enjoys two supervised play sessions per day in our 1.5-acre fenced dog park, plus time in our outdoor runs. Dogs are grouped by size and energy level to ensure safe, positive socialization. High-energy dogs can also join structured “roading” or treadmill sessions for extra conditioning, while calmer dogs enjoy quiet walks or enrichment time.
How do you supervise dogs? Especially overnight?
As a small, owner-operated facility located right on our property, dogs are never left unattended for long periods. All play and training sessions are hands on and supervised, and dogs rest in secure, climate controlled kennels overnight. Because we live onsite, your dog is always close to a familiar caretaker.
Can you manage medications, special diets, or feeding instructions?
Absolutely. Please bring your dog’s meals pre-portioned into labeled bags with clear feeding instructions. We can administer oral or topical medications as needed and handle raw or supplement feeding for a small fee. If your dog runs out of food during their stay, we’ll provide Inukshuk brand dog food at your expense to maintain consistency and nutrition.
What are your booking, payment, and cancellation policies?
All bookings are completed online through our secure system. Full payment is due at or before pick-up.
A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your spot.
Cancellations made more than 7 days in advance may transfer the deposit to a future booking.
Cancellations made within 7 days of the booking start date forfeit the deposit.
Cancellations made within 72 hours of drop-off, or “no-shows,” are subject to the full boarding charge.
During holiday periods, a minimum three-night stay and a non-refundable holiday deposit apply.