Training Information
The Grand Canyon Chapter of NAVHDA is dedicated to the development of the versatile hunting dog. Our monthly training weekends are where the work happens.
Locations & Schedule
This year, we are covering the best of Arizona’s terrain to give our dogs a variety of looks, from high-country timber to desert lands. 2026 Locations include Orme, White Mountains, Parks, and Sonoita Arizona. We typically Saturday & Sunday from 7:00 AM – ~4:00 PM (End time varies by dog count). Every morning starts with a mandatory 15-minute safety meeting starts at 7:00 AM sharp. Do not be late.
- Morning: Field Work & Steadiness
We 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-Day: Tracking & Recovery
As 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. - Afternoon: Water Work
When 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.
Bird Orders
New for 2026: All bird orders and payments are now handled directly through our website. No more messing with PayPal or Venmo—just a simple, secure checkout.
-
Deadline: Bird orders close the Tuesday before each training weekend.
-
Not sure what to order? If you’re a new handler, don’t guess. Reach out to gccnavhda@gmail.com, and we’ll help you determine the right bird and quantity for your dog’s current level.
-
-
Reminders: Watch your inbox for the "Birds Order Open" email for each 2 - 3 weeks before a training weekend.
What to Bring
The chapter provides the heavy-duty gear, including launchers for two fields, place boards for steadiness stations, and all necessary tracking equipment.
Handlers Check List
|
Required to have |
Want to have |
Nice To have |
| -Valid Membership with GCC NAVHDA | -Break open shotgun (NAVHDA Requirement) | -Bird launchers (Discount available!) |
| -Orange Clothing/hat | -Whistle | -Chair |
| -Bird crate | -Starting pistol with Poppers | -Kayak |
| -Sunscreen | -Lunch/Snacks | -Water boots/ Waders |
| -Water bottles for the field | -Shotgun shells | |
| -Extra water for you and your dog | -Good hiking boots | |
| -Dog bowls & food | -Jacket or Rainjacket | |
| -Dog leash | -Hunting vest | |
| -Dog first-aid kit | -Duct tape | |
| -Tie Down Stake & Hammer | -Garbage bag | |
| OR | -Bird bag (Discount available!) | |
| Kennel set up | -Electronic collar | |
| -20' lead or rope | ||
| -Retrieving bumpers |
Membership REquirement & Guests
To attend our training weekends regularly, you MUST be a member of the GCC NAVHDA Chapter.
First-timers: We offer a one-time free pass for those interested in seeing what our chapter is all about. Come out, meet the tribe, watch the dogs work, and see if we’re the right fit for your training goals. Reach out to gccnavhda@gmail.com to schedule a days to join us.
