Hold conditioning
Hold conditioning teaches a retriever to carry a bird firmly but softly and to keep hold of it until the handler takes it. It comes before the full delivery and prevents dropped or chewed birds.
- 4.9 12 Google reviews
- Training since 2002
- Qualified at an AKC Master National
A dog that takes a duck but drops it halfway back is only half trained. Hold work closes that gap and sits right between force fetch and clean delivery.
How it is built
Trainers begin with a dummy or small object and ask the dog to hold it for a short time. The time and distraction grow slowly, with the dog sitting, then standing, then walking with the object. It is often part of force fetch work.
Why it matters in California
A cold swim, a rough landing or a fighting cripple can tempt a dog to drop or chew. A dog with a steady hold brings back usable birds, which matters to hunters on public marshes and at preserves. It leads straight to delivery to hand.
Where it shows up in tests
The AKC lists delivery among the learned skills judges consider. A dog with a good hold delivers cleanly, which supports its trainability score. Force fetch is part of Richard's Basic Waterfowl Program.
Sources (3)
- American Kennel Club: akc.org/sports/retrievers/hunting-tests/ (checked October 27, 2026)
- Hastings Island Hunting Preserve: hihp.com/royal-gun-dogs-dog-training/ (checked October 27, 2026)
- Ducks Unlimited: ducks.org/hunting/retriever-training/retrievers-a-beginners-guide-to-hunt-tests (checked October 27, 2026)
Your trainer
Richard Gebhart has trained dogs professionally since 2002, learned the Rex Carr method for Retriever Basics under Billy Sargenti, and has run and qualified at an AKC Master National.
Meet RichardHow long does hold work take?
It depends on the dog. Richard sets the pace for each one.
Book a consult
Get your dog ready for next season.
Richard books by phone. Call, text, or leave your details and he will call you back.
(530) 341-4496- 4.9 12 Google reviews
- Training since 2002