Richard Gebhart, gun dog trainer
Richard Gebhart has trained dogs professionally since 2002, first with field trial retrievers under Billy Sargenti and, from 2013, with pointers and other upland breeds under Steve Klassen. He has run and qualified at an AKC Master National.
- 4.9 12 Google reviews
- Training since 2002
- Qualified at an AKC Master National
Richard is an avid upland and waterfowl hunter. He understands the teamwork between a hunter and a well-trained gun dog, and how it makes a hunt better and cuts down on lost game.
Field trial retrievers and the Rex Carr method
Under Billy Sargenti, Richard worked with field trial retrievers at varying levels. That is where he learned the Rex Carr method for Retriever Basics, the foundation he still builds retrievers on.
Pointers and upland breeds
In 2013 Richard expanded his training experience to pointers and other upland breeds under Steve Klassen at Blue Ridge Kennels. Today his experience covers top-level field trial and hunt test dogs as well as everyday hunting dogs and home companions.
The AKC hunt test community
Richard is active in the AKC retriever hunt test community. He has run and qualified at an AKC Master National, and he runs dogs and assists clients at local weekend AKC retriever hunt tests.
His training philosophy
"Balance, encouraging the hunting drive and desire in the dog, coupled with the necessary 'team player' attitude to develop an exceptional hunting partner or competitive team."
Richard also enjoys training handlers alongside their dogs, in one-on-one or group lessons, so owners leave with the skills to keep their dog sharp.
Book a session
Richard books directly. Call or text him at (530) 341-4496 to talk about your dog, or leave your details in the form below and he will call you back.
Sources (1)
- Hastings Island Hunting Preserve: hihp.com/royal-gun-dogs-dog-training/ (checked October 27, 2026)
Where Richard trains
Hastings Island Hunting Preserve, 7758 Hastings Island Rd, near Rio Vista in Solano County. Call before you drive out.
DirectionsWhere did Richard learn to train retrievers?
Under Billy Sargenti, working with field trial retrievers, where he learned the Rex Carr method for Retriever Basics.
Does Richard train pointing dogs?
Yes. He has trained pointers and other upland breeds since 2013, when he worked under Steve Klassen at Blue Ridge Kennels.
Has Richard run at the national level?
Yes. He has run and qualified at an AKC Master National.
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