Where We Train
We train at various locations across the Hertfordshire countryside, easily reached from the M1 and A1. Meadows, woodland, rivers, lakes, a purpose-built training ground and an enclosed paddock, so your dog learns in real conditions. All gundog breeds and gundog crosses are welcome, from complete beginner to advanced, puppy to veteran.
The Training Path
Every dog starts somewhere. Our levels build on each other, so you always know what comes next.
LEVEL 1
Puppy & Cadets
For puppies from 12 weeks. We cover heelwork on and off lead, recall, sit-stays, whistle commands and good manners, plus the foundation skills for future gundog work. Pupstars takes puppies from 12 weeks to 6 months, New Recruits from 6 months, and Cadets from 8 months for dogs who have completed Level 1. Ideal whether your dog is headed for the shooting field or you simply want a well-mannered companion at home.
6-week courses · £140 · payment due on week one
LEVEL 2
Novice & Novice Masters
For dogs over one year old, from first-time gundog trainers to those preparing for the shooting field or competition. Novice builds structured retrieving with memory, seen and blind retrieves, directional work and the stop whistle. Novice Masters adds realistic scenarios, steadiness to shot and handling skills. New dogs need a 1-2-1 with a Riverlily trainer before booking, or previous group training with us.
6-week courses · £140 · payment due on week one
LEVEL 3
Advanced
For dogs training for the shooting field, Working Tests from puppy to open level, and Field Trials for novice retrievers. We run themed workshops, training days and general sessions across Hertfordshire, and welcome well-trained pet gundogs training for the fun of it. Dogs should have completed our Novice training or be working at that level, steady to dummies and shot, with a reliable stop whistle at distance.
Sessions from £30
General training sessions run through the year, see Workshops for dates.
ANY LEVEL
1-2-1 Training
Individual sessions with a Riverlily trainer, available weekdays and weekends at any level. Book a one-off lesson to work on a specific issue, or a series to train your dog to the level you want. A 1-2-1 is also the starting point for dogs joining our Novice and Advanced groups.
£50 per hour
Sessions & Workshops
