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. Each training morning starts with a mandatory 15-minute safety meeting. Typically trainings end around 4:00 PM (depending on who many attend). 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.

• The GCC NAVHDA bird order window opens two Thursdays before each training weekend and runs for 6 days. The deadline to order birds is 7:00pm on the Tuesday before a scheduled Training, and an automated reminder is sent one day prior.

   

  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.

   

• Late Bird Order Policy 
  The GCC Board agreed to a no exceptions late order policy out of respect for our bird vendors' and board members' time. If you miss the order deadline the chapter typically has extra birds available at the training weekend, and members often barter for birds between themselves. Your participation is still highly appreciated and encouraged; however we will no longer accommodate late orders.

   

• Bird Order Cancellation Policy

  All GCC NAVHDA bird orders are final and non-refundable. Although cancelling members are responsible for finding a buyer for ordered birds, the Chapter will announce cancelled order birds for sale at training days. Any sale transaction will be solely between the seller who cancelled, and the new buyer. Cancelled birds cannot be returned to the bird vendors due to Avian Influenza Virus precautions.

Start Bird Order 

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