FR Labs

FR Labs offers a structured training program designed to build a solid foundation for dogs to become enjoyable hunting companions and good citizens, regardless of whether the goal is a gun dog or high-level competition. All dogs receive consistent training and attention.

The program consists of three main levels. The Basic Program, for dogs 6-8 months and older, focuses on obedience, conditioned retrieves, force fetch, collar conditioning, and steadiness, lasting a minimum of 4 months. Dogs completing this level are typically ready for HRC started and AKC junior tests. The Seasoned Dog Program, an additional 3-6 months, emphasizes high-level obedience, reliable handling on blinds, multiple marks, and steadiness for hunting, preparing dogs for HRC seasoned and AKC senior tests. The Finished Dog Program builds on this, taking 4-18 months, aiming for ultimate hunting partners with increased consistency, control, and distance, suitable for HRC finished and AKC master tests.

FR Labs also conducts a 2-4 month winter training trip south for water work and extended training. They actively participate in HRC and AKC events from February to October. Before a dog returns home, owners receive a one-on-one handlers clinic to learn proper handling techniques.

Pricing Summary

Boarding rates are $25/night for one dog and $20/night for each additional dog, plus tax. A $25 bathing fee may apply if a dog needs bathing upon arrival. For puppies, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a pick, with final prices varying based on the parents’ titles and pedigrees. Training discounts and title incentives are offered for puppies from their litters. Stud fees for Wally and Twitch are $1000, with a $300 non-refundable deposit due at breeding and the remaining $700 at litter registration; fees are pro-rated if fewer than 3 puppies are born.

Policies

For boarding, dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations and have a negative fecal test within one month prior to arrival. Owners must complete a registration form and sign a release of liability. For training services, dogs must have current vaccinations, a vet note confirming no pre-existing health issues, and a clear fecal sample within one month of arrival. Clients are required to sign a training contract and liability waiver.

Puppies come with a 26-month hip/eye congenital health contract. A $500 deposit is required to reserve a puppy. If the desired sex or color is unavailable after birth, clients can switch their pick, transfer the deposit to a future litter, or receive a refund. For stud services, females must meet strict health requirements, including OFA excellent/good hips (or PennHip above breed average), normal elbows, clear CAER certification, and be dilute clear. A negative brucellosis test and up-to-date vaccinations (including bordatella 15 days prior) are also required for natural breedings. A non-refundable deposit is due at breeding, with the remainder at litter registration, and fees are pro-rated for litters with fewer than three puppies.

FR Labs is a dog training business founded by Jessica and Casey, who share a passion for hunting and well-trained retrievers. What began as a personal endeavor to breed and train their own hunting dogs evolved into a professional service offering dog training to others, starting in 2019. Casey transitioned to full-time training in June 2021.

Their mission is to breed Labradors that excel as both skilled hunting dogs and well-mannered family companions, aiming for a balance of these traits. They specialize in retriever and gundog training, preparing dogs for hunting and high-level competitions like HRC and AKC events.

In addition to training, FR Labs provides year-round dog boarding services in temperature-controlled runs or crates, with dogs receiving regular outdoor access in a fenced yard. They also offer stud services from their titled Labrador males and sell various dog-related products, including supplements, essential oils, Kuranda beds, and branded apparel.

Accomplishments

FR Labs has over 10 years of experience running dogs in competitions, primarily HRC events, and started AKC tests in 2021. They are the only trainers in the Dakotas and Minnesota who run the Master National and one of two who run the HRC International Grand.

Their personal dogs have achieved significant titles, including 1 Grand Hunting Retriever Champion, 1 Grand pass, 2 Master National passes, 6 Hunting Retriever Champion titles, 8 Hunting Retriever titles, 2 Started Hunting Retriever Titles, and 5 Master Hunter titles. Several of their dogs have accumulated high HRC points, with one reaching 1000 points and two others exceeding 500 points. They also hold 2 Upland Hunter Champion titles and 4 Upland Hunter titles.

Jessica is a lifetime member of the Jim River HRC, having served as hunt secretary, treasurer, president, and vice-president, and is the HRC Region 8B Running Rules Representative. She is an AA finished judge and has judged the HRC International Grand three times. Casey is also a lifetime member of the Jim River HRC, served as hunt chairman, and is a licensed seasoned judge. Both are members of the North Dakota Retriever Club. They have led numerous dog training and hunting seminars and continuously expand their knowledge through various courses and resources. Jessica holds a Dog Emotion and Cognition Certificate.

How to Get Started!

To inquire about training services, prospective clients should contact Casey directly at 816-260-9646 to be added to the waiting list. For puppy inquiries and deposits, interested parties are directed to fill out the form on the Puppy App page. Those interested in stud services for their female dogs should complete the form provided on the Stud Services page.