Side by Side Upland Dog Training

Training is divided into three 20-day intensive phases: Foundation Training focuses on prey drive, obedience, bird finding, and basic commands using lead, whoa post, and check cord; Intermediate Training transitions to remote cues, improves steadiness on point, and introduces sit-to-flush for flushing dogs; Advanced Training reinforces learned behaviors and exposes dogs to diverse hunting conditions including wind, dead hunting, and gun exposure. Dogs work with live birds daily, and owners participate in every session to learn handling techniques.

Pricing Summary

Training is offered in three 20-day phases, each priced at $1200. No discounts or package deals are mentioned beyond the phased structure. Equipment such as Smith leather collars is available for purchase.

Side by Side Upland Dog Training is a specialized upland bird dog training business located in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, led by certified trainer Dave Bale and his wife Shelia. They focus on training pointing and flushing breeds for upland hunting, offering a structured three-phase program that builds prey drive, obedience, bird manners, and field skills through daily, hands-on repetition with live birds. Their unique approach involves owners actively participating in every session, ensuring they learn how to manage and communicate with their dogs effectively—unlike traditional board-and-train models. The training uses the Hunt-Smith Silent-Command System, emphasizing consistency, positive reinforcement, and gradual progression tailored to each dog’s temperament. They provide all training equipment, including leather collars for sale, and require owners to bring their dog, travel kennel, water, and bowl.

Dave is a Hunt-Smith Silent-Command certified trainer with over two decades of hands-on experience training and hunting alongside multiple breeds, including English Setters, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Pointers. His background as a former college educator and basketball coach informs his patient, teaching-oriented style. Shelia, though not a hunter herself, supports the program and shares a deep appreciation for upland breeds, contributing to a welcoming, family-centered environment.

Clients report significant improvements in their dogs’ steadiness, recall, and hunting performance, with many achieving success in their first hunting season with minimal post-training corrections. The program is designed for owners who want to build a strong, lifelong partnership with their hunting dog through active involvement and proven methods.

Accomplishments

Dave Bale is a certified Hunt-Smith Silent-Command trainer, having completed a rigorous apprenticeship under Ronnie Smith, a nationally recognized bird dog trainer. He was formally certified after demonstrating advanced understanding of dog behavior and training techniques, assisting in seminars, and successfully training dogs under supervision. His background as a former college educator and coach enhances his ability to teach both dogs and owners effectively.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must register through the pricing page to enroll in one of the three 20-day training phases. No free consultation is offered; enrollment begins with payment and scheduling into a session.