Bird Dog Field Notes by Willow Creek Kennels cover art

Bird Dog Field Notes by Willow Creek Kennels

Bird Dog Field Notes by Willow Creek Kennels

Written by: Willow Creek Kennels
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About this listen

Bird Dog Field Notes is a straight-shooting conversation about bird dog and sundog training, puppies, hunting dogs and breeding. Hosted by Chad and Tracy Hines of Willow Creek Kennels & Hunting, each episode pulls from decades of real-world work with German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs), pointing dogs and other gun dog breeds.

Whether you are raising your first bird dog or polishing a seasoned one, we focus on what works in real life and keep it simple. Topics include puppy selection, early development, obedience (manners), field training fundamentals, problem solving, breeding decisions, and testing and field trialing side of the bird dog world. With a strong focus on pointing breeds and upland hunting, you'll find applicable training tips and dog knowledge for any versatile breed.

© 2026 Willow Creek Kennels & Hunting LLC. All rights reserved.
Episodes
  • Ep2: Breeding Bird Dogs

    Ep2: Breeding Bird Dogs
    Jan 23 2026

    Chad and Tracy Hines of Willow Creek Kennels explain how they make breeding decisions in their German Shorthaired Pointer program. Chad brings nearly four decades of experience breeding and developing dogs. They cover genetics, line breeding, outcrossing, early development, hunting ability, health, and conformation, and how they balance those factors when planning a litter. If you are considering a bird dog, GSP or otherwise, this episode will help you think through what matters.
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    58 mins
  • Ep 1: Puppy FAQs, Choosing the Right Puppy, and Early Training

    Ep 1: Puppy FAQs, Choosing the Right Puppy, and Early Training
    Jan 14 2026

    In this first episode of Bird Dog Field Notes, Chad and Tracy Hines answer common puppy questions they hear from buyers and dog owners every year.

    The conversation covers how to approach puppy selection, what actually matters early on, and how training and development in the first months shape the dog long term. They also talk through common mistakes, realistic expectations, and how to think about a puppy’s future in the field.

    This episode includes discussion around early training priorities, exposure, development, and how field testing or trialing may fit into a young dog’s path.
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    1 hr
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