From the very beginning of Cornerstone, Chad Duckworth has been part of the CGA family. In this episode, Chad shares one of the most powerful DIY retriever journeys we’ve ever featured—starting with his first dog, Moose, who was once labeled “not cut out” for gun-dog work after a rough pro-training experience. But instead of giving up, Chad rolled up his sleeves, trusted the process, and trained Moose himself through CGA—turning that dog into a steady, reliable hunting partner who accompanied him on countless incredible days in the field.

Chad opens up about the highs, the heartbreak, and the unforgettable final hunt Moose made by his side. He then walks us through the new chapter with his pup, Winnie—a young, driven retriever whose journey has been built slowly, intentionally, and the right way. From foundational obedience to first hunts, swan retrieves, road trips, chapter meetups, and the lessons learned between dogs one and two… this episode is packed with wisdom for any handler who wants to build something special with their dog.

Whether you’re just starting out, rebuilding a dog, or navigating the roller coaster of training your first retriever, Chad’s story will remind you why the journey matters, why patience pays off, and why doing it yourself creates a bond unlike anything else.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

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