Homer himself defiantly made training him a snap so to speak. The main reason is superior breeding. Outstanding hunting instinct, temperament, STRONG retrieving desire, and willingness to please were all “built in” to Homer. Homer’s breeders are experts in field trails and like me are completely addicted to bird hunting.
The old saying “ You can’t make chicken soup with chicken shit” could not be more true in choosing a dog to train. Homer came with a stack of certification papers. Both parents (bitch and stud) were certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to have NO genetic problems with elbow and hip dysplasia or congenital heart problems. They were also certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation to be free of eye defects.
Along with the health certificates, both Homers parents had A.K.C. Hunt Test Certificates,. Junior, Senior, and Master Hunter. All this added up to a dog that was raging with desire and free from genetic defects.
As you can see the breeders I got Homer from take great pride and care in breeding top quality dogs. Getting a dog like Homer is impossible at a pet store or from a casual breeder. Before you spend a dime on a “Hunting Dog” ask the breeder to produce the type of certifications Homer came with. This will insure you get a top quality, easy to train dog.
Ask around and look at several breeders before you make your choice. Field trials are an outstanding place to look for good breeders. If you would like to contact Homers breeders call Steve Stevens at Applewood Retrievers (909) 226-4261. Steve is currently running and finishing very high in the Super Retriever Series field trials with Homers dad Seeker. Steve has a tremendous wealth of knowledge that can help you choose your next dog.
Joe Dynarski