On Point Kennel

On Point Kennel offers customized, one-on-one training programs for gun dogs with goals set from the start. Programs include obedience, field work, pointing, backing, retrieving, and water work. Training is available through day sessions or extended boarding programs lasting weeks or months. Clients are guided through NAVHDA, AKC, NADKC, and JGHV testing systems. Training includes electric fetch, steady-to-wing-shot, blind retrieves, and honors. Dave trains both the dog and the handler to build a strong partnership. Programs are year-round and include access to live birds and natural terrain.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not explicitly listed online. Training is described as affordable for all levels, with extended boarding and training programs offered. One client reported a $45 fee for a 10-minute consultation, suggesting costs may be discussed individually. No packages or rate sheets are published.

Policies

No explicit cancellation, rescheduling, or payment policies are stated on the website. One client noted a lack of upfront cost discussion, suggesting policies may be communicated individually during consultation.

On Point Kennel, owned and operated by Dave and Carol Trahan in Deerfield, NH, is a specialized dog training facility focused on hunting and field trial dogs. Dave Trahan, with over 30 years of experience, offers customized training programs for gun dogs, including pointing breeds and retrievers, tailored to beginners, experienced hunters, and competitive handlers. The facility provides one-on-one training, boarding and training programs, and access to natural terrain including fields, woods, and waterways for realistic hunting scenarios. They specialize in NAVHDA, AKC, NADKC, and JGHV hunt tests, addressing issues like gun shyness, water fear, and retrieving skills. In addition to training, they sell training equipment and breed Deutsch Kurzhaar dogs. Their approach emphasizes handler education, ensuring owners learn to effectively train and handle their dogs. The kennel is located adjacent to the trainers’ home, offering personalized care and supervision for boarded dogs.

They are affiliated with Project Upland and Dave is a nationally recognized NAVHDA Senior Judge and former National President, with multiple Versatile Championships and VGP titles earned by his own and client dogs.

On Point Kennel operates year-round and provides training for all stages of a dog’s life, from puppies to adults, with a focus on obedience, field work, pointing, backing, retrieving, and water work.

They also conduct seminars, clinics, and training segments for Bird Dogs Afield, and offer guidance for owners seeking to compete or improve their dog’s hunting performance.

While they offer boarding and training, they do not appear to provide general pet boarding, grooming, or day care unrelated to training.

A client review noted a lack of upfront cost transparency for an initial consultation, suggesting potential communication gaps despite high expertise.

The facility is not described as offering services for non-hunting dogs, therapy, or behavior modification outside of hunting-related issues.

Accomplishments

Dave Trahan has trained dogs for over 30 years and is a Lifetime Member and former National President of NAVHDA. He is a NAVHDA Senior Judge and NADKC JGHV Judge. His dogs and clients’ dogs have earned 19 Natural Abilities, 3 UPT, 27 Utility Tests, 5 Versatile Championships in NAVHDA, and 10 Derby, 9 Solms, and 1 VGP in the NADKC system. He has been featured on Bird Dogs Afield and has helped clients earn Prize I’s and Versatile Championships. He is a registered hunting guide in New Hampshire.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact On Point Kennel to discuss goals and schedule an evaluation. Training begins with establishing specific goals and may involve an initial consultation, followed by enrollment in day sessions or boarding programs. Dave advises puppy owners to return when the dog is 6 months old for formal training.