Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels

Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels offers nationally recognized training programs tailored to individual dog’s needs, with one-on-one training for both the dog and owner/family.

Gundog Training includes a 2-week Puppy Program (5+ months old) for bird and gun introduction, focusing on retrieving and positive gun/bird relationships. The Intermediate Program (10 weeks for Retrievers, 12 weeks for Pointers, 8+ months old) establishes on and off-leash control, whistle recall, quartering skills, force fetch, and pointing/whoa commands, with three owner lessons.

Obedience Training for all breeds (7+ months old) includes a 4-week On-Leash Obedience Program covering heel, sit, down, ok, no, and kennel commands, with weekly owner lessons during the last two weeks. An 8-week On and Off-Leash Obedience Program builds upon the 4-week program, adding off-leash control and recall, with weekly owner lessons during the last three weeks. All obedience training is board and train.

Shed Dog Training includes a 2-week Shed Introduction (5+ months old) focusing on introducing dogs to shed antlers and enhancing natural retrieving instincts, without obedience work. The Shed Dog Intermediate Program (12 weeks, 8+ months old, or 6 weeks if Gun Dog Intermediate was completed) establishes on and off-leash control, whistle control, force fetch for shed delivery, and extensive sight and scent training in various conditions. This program includes three owner lessons scheduled after a one-month progress call. Private lessons and special programs for particular performance areas are also available.

Pricing Summary

Prices for puppies and training programs require direct contact with Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels. A deposit is required at the time of booking training reservations. The cost for gundog training does not include the charge for birds used during the training program, which is an additional fee paid at the end of the 2-week training.

Policies

A deposit is required at the time of booking training reservations, which is non-refundable if cancellation occurs less than 30 days before the appointment. Current vaccination certificates are required at check-in, including DHLP-P with Corona and Bordetella (current within 1 year), and Rabies (current within 2 years, or 1 year for first vaccination). Vaccinations must be administered at least 21 days prior to the appointment. Clients must notify the kennel if a female canine companion is in season before bringing her in for training.

Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels has been a trusted name in dog training for over 40 years, aiming to provide exceptional service and care for canine companions. Their state-of-the-art kennel facilities feature climate-controlled individual runs for year-round comfort.

The training grounds are specifically designed for gun dog training, including fields with various cover for upland training and numerous ponds for waterfowl training. Each dog receives one-on-one training, with programs tailored to their specific needs and abilities.

A unique advantage is that training extends to the owners and families, with detailed one-on-one instruction provided before the dog leaves. In addition to training, Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels also offers boarding services for all breeds and breeds award-winning Labrador Retriever puppies.

Accomplishments

Tom Dokken, the owner, has over 40 years of training experience. He owns Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels, described as the largest gun dog training kennel in the upper half of the United States. He is also the inventor of the Dead Fowl Trainer and has appeared in seminars across the United States and South America. He has numerous television appearances on ESPN, TNN, and major outdoor channels. The kennel also boasts award-winning Labrador Retriever puppies.

How to Get Started!

All appointments and reservations must be made in advance. Clients can call the office for reservations, questions, or to schedule a free evaluation to determine the most suitable training program for their dog.