BRAKING NEWS: 2026 means a new way to pay. GCC NAVHDA is now able to process payment online.  

Grand Canyon Chapter – NAVHDA

Whether you’re chasing desert quail through the cactus or waiting in a blind for waterfowl, your dog is your most valuable partner. At GCC NAVHDA, we don't just "own" dogs—we help build versatile hunters.

 

Why Join the Chapter? 

 

Real-World Training: Our monthly sessions aren't just drills; they’re hands-on preparation for the field and the water. 

 

The NAVHDA Standard: We use the a respected testing system to ensure your dog is steady to wing and shot, tracks wounded game, and delivers to hand every time.

 

From the first point to the final retrieve. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a green with your first versatile pup, we’re here to help you foster an unbreakable bond. The best memories are the ones made over a dog you trained yourself.

 

If you love the outdoors, the smell of gunpowder, and the company of good hunting dogs, you belong here.

 

NAVHDA TESTING

Measure Your Dog Against a Proven Standard

 

The ultimate benchmark of a versatile hunting dog is the NAVHDA testing system. The Grand Canyon Chapter hosts sanctioned tests twice a year, offering a rigorous, respected evaluation of your dog’s raw talent and your work as a trainer.

 

Whether you’re running a pup in Natural Ability or bringing a finished dog to the Utility line, our tests push the limits of the versatile standard. 

 

Testing isn't just about the prize—it’s about the grit it takes to get there and the bond you build with your partner along the way.

 

 

Ready to see how your dog stacks up against the standard? Register now to secure your spot in our next test. 

 

 

TRAINING DAYS

Hands-On, Real-World Training

Just because the season ends doesn't mean the work stops. Our monthly training days are designed to keep you and your dog hunt-ready throughout the off-season. From starting your first puppy to polishing a seasoned bird dog, our community of members and mentors is here to ensure you never go into the field unprepared.

What to Expect on a Training Weekend

We run our sessions with the same discipline we expect in the field. While every weekend varies based on the weather and terrain, here is how we typically break down the day:

  • Mornings:
    Field Work & SteadinessWe kick off at first light with field runs and steadiness drills. Whether you’re working on "whoa" or steady-to-wing-and-shot, we group dogs by skill level to ensure everyone gets the right reps.

  • Mid-Days:
    Tracking & RecoveryAs the field work is wrapping up, we shift focus to tracking. We simulate real-world recovery scenarios to ensure your dog can find and reclaim game in the thickest Arizona brush.

  • Afternoons:
    Water WorkWhen the grounds allow for it, we finish the day at the water’s edge. We work on entries, retrieves, and steadiness in the decoys to round out the perfect versatile hunter.

Prepare for the Field
Want to know what to pack, where to go, or how the day is structured? Check out our full guide for everything you need to know before you load up the truck. 

JOIN GCC NAVHDA

Because great bird dogs aren’t built alone.


We’ve built a foundation of resources ready for any hunter to tap into. Whether you’re training for a Utility Test or just want a reliable partner for opening day, you don’t have to go it alone.

 

When you join GCC NAVHDA, you get the edge:

  • Mentorship: Direct access to seasoned trainers and judges.

  • Resources: Access to ordering birds, training grounds, and specialized gear/equipment.

  • Consistency: Monthly training days and sanctioned tests.

  • Community: A tribe of hunters who value wild places and good dogs.  

 

The best memories are made over a dog you trained yourself. If you value adventure and the work it takes to get there, you belong with us.