Heron Hawk Retriever

Training follows a structured, step-by-step program for both trial and gun dogs: on-leash obedience, hold, force fetching, collar conditioning, walking fetch, leave it, force on pile, force on back, double T, swim by, and transition. Puppy Head Start includes socialization, housebreaking, swimming, and basic retrieving. Day training is available for all levels. Seasonal conditioning runs August–September for fall hunting prep. Handlers are trained alongside their dogs to build teamwork.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are available on the Fees page; birds and flyers provided at cost during training. Boarding and training packages offered for extended programs.

Heron Hawk Retriever Training, established in 1971 by Kristen Hoffman, specializes in training sporting and retriever dogs for both competition and hunting. Kristen and her assistant Ken Dillard provide comprehensive training programs including puppy head start, obedience, force fetching, and field trial preparation. Dogs are trained on-site at their facility with structured steps covering on-leash obedience, e-collar conditioning, retrieving, swimming, and bird exposure. They offer day training for all levels, seasonal conditioning for fall hunting prep, and board-and-train services. Handlers are taught to work as a team with their dogs, ensuring long-term success. The business also sells dogs and provides nutrition and health care guidance for sporting dogs.

Training is tailored for gun dogs and trial dogs, with emphasis on enthusiasm, manners, and competitive spirit. Ken Dillard maintains year-round training and care, while Kristen travels to trials and conducts advanced training sessions. They welcome owners to participate in weekend training and provide birds and flyers at cost.

Additional services include dog boarding, nutrition advice, and access to a network of trained retrievers for sale.

The facility is located in Bumpass, Virginia, with seasonal operations in Cleveland, TX during winter months.

Accomplishments

Since 1971, Kristen Hoffman has trained field champions and master hunters. Heron Hawk Retriever Training has consistently produced competitive and hunting-ready retrievers over five decades.

How to Get Started!

Owners contact Heron Hawk Retriever Training via phone or email to inquire about training options. Dogs may be enrolled in day training, board-and-train, or seasonal conditioning programs. Initial consultation is required to assess dog and handler needs.