The Lab Barton Ramsey

#015 Wally's seasoned insights combined with the tales of our dogs' progression from eager puppies to disciplined retrievers is a narrative that will captivate both the novice and the experienced handler. As we dissect the nuances of our training methods, you'll find yourself immersed in the complexity and dedication it takes to cultivate a gundog's potential. From the tailored approaches we employ to instill a strong water attitude to the "Wally Drill" that keeps the pups' tails wagging with excitement, we leave no stone unturned. 

The conversation doesn't end there; we venture into the collective dynamic of group training, emphasizing the mental agility it instills in our dogs, before delving into the critical aspects of retrieval training. Trust me when I say that our experiences, coupled with the shared advice on positive reinforcement and the patience required in this craft, will resonate with anyone who's ever looked into the loyal eyes of a gundog and seen the untapped potential within. Join us as we recount our journey with these remarkable animals, and perhaps you'll discover the key to unlocking your own dog's full capabilities.

#014 Ever wondered what it takes to turn a good gundog into a great one? Strap in for a journey through Cornerstone Gundog Academy's Member Weekend in Jasper, Alabama, where the synergy between handler and retriever takes center stage. As your guide, I'll recount the excitement and invaluable lessons from group obedience workouts to the mock hunts. We're talking precision drills for every skill level, from eager pups to those venerable retrievers that still show us the ropes—and trust me, even my seasoned companions Twig and Ozzie had their moments to shine and areas to grow. 

I'll share the triumphs and the hiccups, all while celebrating the progress and camaraderie that comes from facing challenges as a team. Handlers, novices, and experts alike, stepped up their game, proving that every stumble is a leap forward in the training world. So, buckle up, bring your love for gundogs, and prepare for an episode that's not just about training tips but about the heart-pumping, tail-wagging adventure that is the cornerstone of every great gundog story.

#013 Spring's arrival always brings back memories of cool mornings turned warm, as my son Noah and I tread softly through the awakening woods, our retrievers eager at our heels. It's a time of transition, from the quiet end of waterfowl season to the lively beginnings of summer training, and no one embraces this change more than Noah. He reminds us that the hunt isn't always about the shot—it's about the joy in the journey and the dance of a job well done by our four-legged companions. Join us as we recount family escapades and the triumphant milestones of a boy and his dog.

Noah, stepping confidently into the storytelling ring, brings to life the adventures of our unique Thanksgiving at Salt Plains, a day as memorable for its departures from tradition as it is for the laughter and bonding it brought. At the heart of our conversation are the ties that bind, the lessons learned amidst nature's grandeur, and the shared experiences that form the bedrock of family lore. Whether it's battling the elements on our annual Purpose trip or the sweet victory of Noah's first Mallard with a trusty 410, these are the tales that weave the fabric of our kinship.

Wrapping up with practical nuggets of wisdom, our chat transitions from heartfelt reflection to the nitty-gritty of travel and training with a lively crew of kids and canines. Noah's insights on overcoming separation anxiety and his love for the training field enrich our dialogue, offering a fresh perspective on ensuring comfort for all on our jaunts through the countryside. Our hope is that these shared stories, seasoned with the humor and warmth only a father-son duo can provide, inspire you to craft your own cherished memories, whether in the blind, on the road, or during those quiet moments at home with your own family and loyal retrievers at your side.

#012 Join The Lab as Mississippi's own Kippy Kemp, an aficionado of dog training and field trials, brings his homespun wisdom to the mic. With stories as rich as the soil on his Brangus cattle farm, Kippy delves into the intricacies of raising champion retrievers and the community spirit found in places like Cornerstone Gundog Academy. As we swap tales of quail hunts and the changing landscapes of turkey and quail populations, you'll feel the nostalgia and passion that drive both Kippy and I.

The competitive spirit of field trials takes center stage in our conversation as we dissect the psychological edge and meticulous standards that set apart these dog events. It's not just about a dog passing a test; it's the performance, the finesse, and the deep connection between handler and canine that truly make for a winning team. From the all-age stakes to the evolution of dog sports, we explore the bond that forms when training translates to triumph, and how the love for the game transcends all.

Wrapping up our chat, we step into the kennel to uncover the daily regimens that enhance a dog's innate talents, and the patience and adaptability required in training. Kippy imparts lessons from his journey, offering a mentor's perspective on navigating the learning plateaus of puppies and the delicate art of applying pressure. We also reflect on the diverse qualities of British and American breeds, the politics behind the trials, and the camaraderie that enriches the dog training community. So sit back, and let us guide you through a world where dedication to dogs intersects with the love of the land and the thrill of competition.

#011 Ever found yourself trying to perfect the sit-stay command while juggling a conference call and prepping dinner? You're not alone. I, Barton Ramsey, alongside my close pal Miles Durham from Southern Oak Kennels, get real about the tightrope walk of managing a demanding career, nurturing family life, and following our heart's call to dog training. Miles opens up about the hurdles and triumphs of training dogs as a side hustle while being a dedicated husband and father. We weave through anecdotes and insights, offering encouragement to fellow dog lovers striving to find harmony in their bustling lives.

Our conversation takes a turn as we reminisce about our personal journeys with our canine companions. We reflect on how the early days with my dog, Doc, compare to the current challenges of building a consistent training routine for young Boss, amidst life's relentless pace. The importance of striking the right balance in training, to nurture obedience and field skills without overtraining, is a thread that runs through our candid discussion. We also celebrate the lessons learned from our dogs, the emotional intelligence they possess, and how they mirror our attitudes during training—highlighting the profound impact our own emotions have on their performance.

Closing the episode, we toast to the incredible bonds forged with fellow dog lovers and the lasting imprint left by dogs like Penn, whose retirement story we fondly share. We cap off with a glimpse into the heartfelt and sometimes humorous dance of life with our four-legged friends. Whether you're gearing up for chilly weather hunts or simply finding solace in the company of your loyal pup, this episode is dedicated to those of us who make room for our passions amid the whirlwind of everyday life. Join us for a soul-stirring tribute to the dedication and camaraderie that defines the dog training community.

Join us on a thrilling journey with our guest, Bill Free, a seasoned duck hunter, mayor of Duckville, USA, and chairman of a waterfowl festival. Throughout his many adventures, Bill has formed a close friendship with George H. Dunklin, JR, contributed to the scientific study of duck habitats, and built an admirable rapport with his stud dogs. This lively discussion will cover everything from hunting practices at the renowned Five Oaks Lodge to Bill's recent Italian escape and how he has juggled his responsibilities since his return.

Step into the world of George H. Dunklin, Jr, the mind behind the famed Five Oaks Lodge. Discover how he transformed this venue into a research hub for duck habitat, educating future generations on duck conservation. Our chat will take you through the art of timber hunts, the role of wind conditions in duck hunting, and the tracking of duck migration patterns. We'll also shed light on the significance of hunting pressure on these fascinating creatures.

As we move forward, we'll talk about the iconic Stuttgart, Arkansas World Duck Calling Championship. Learn about our training experiences with retriever, Maggie, in preparation for field trials. You'll also hear about the Duck Festival and Gumbo Cook-Off, a unique sticker tradition, and the vital role of the stage in Stuttgart’s community events.