K & L Kennels

K and L Kennels customizes training to fit each dog and handler, providing honest evaluations and training dogs one step at a time with a goal in mind. They work to align the hunter’s mental picture of a finished dog with the training program. They emphasize owner involvement throughout the training process.

The trainers have over 25 years of experience with retrievers, particularly Labrador Retrievers, for hunting. They have a system for nurturing the pointing instinct in Labradors but also value strong flushing dogs. They train dogs for all levels of HRC and AKC hunt tests, and utilize the APLA to showcase client dogs.

Pricing Summary

Stud fees for some dogs are listed at $1000. No pricing information is available for training services.

K and L Kennels is a dog training business owned by John Koenig and Mike Lettau, who have been training gundogs together since 1989. The kennel operates on a 200-acre Century Farm south of Higginsville, Missouri, which is managed for upland habitat and features 8 ponds, including a 3-acre technical pond built in 2010 for water work. This environment is ideal for exposing young dogs to cover and upland game.

K and L Kennels specializes in customizing training programs to fit each dog and handler’s specific needs and expectations. They provide honest evaluations of a dog’s potential and work step-by-step towards defined goals. They encourage owner involvement throughout the training process, believing it helps owners understand their dog’s progress better.

The trainers have over 25 years of experience training retrievers, particularly Labrador Retrievers, for hunting. They have developed an effective system for testing and nurturing the pointing instinct in Labradors, while also valuing a great flushing dog. They train dogs for all levels of HRC and AKC hunt tests, and the American Pointing Labrador Association (APLA) is a major venue for showcasing their clients’ dogs.

In addition to training, K and L Kennels also offers dogs for sale, stud dog services, and information on upcoming litters.

Accomplishments

Mike achieved 12 for 12 passes at an AKC hunt test in Elkhart, Iowa, including 10 Junior, 1 Master, and 1 Senior pass. Several dogs trained by K and L Kennels earned CPR, APR, MPR, AKC JR, and SR titles. Mike was particularly successful in AKC Senior and Master tests, titling young dogs.

In Spring 2013, Mike achieved a new personal best with 113 passes. The kennel has trained dogs that earned titles such as GMPR, HRCH, MH, CPR, APR, MPR, SHR, JR, and SR. Notably, they trained Sebastian’s Little Huggy Bear (GMPR MH HR) and his sister Blossom, who titled easily in AKC and APLA. They also trained Grizzly, who became the youngest ever 4X GMPR by 6 months, and Scooter, who earned QAA, GMPR, and MH titles before 23 months of age.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to call or drop by to meet with the trainers and discuss how K and L Kennels can assist them. Mike is actively seeking young dogs to start training for upcoming hunt test seasons, advising interested owners to call to reserve a spot for their dog.