Granite Ledge Kennels

Sage went to stay with Chris, the first time, when she was only 8 months old for about 30 days. After those first 30 days, and lots of discussions, we decided to invest in her and Chris. We have since had Sage with Chris for more than a full year of training, at different times, over the past 2 years and just achieved our Senior Hunt Test Title. Chris is a great trainer, on many levels, and anyone that understands retriever training can appreciate what/how he teaches the skills these dogs will need to complete their jobs. Chris has spent numerous hours working, not only with Sage, but also with me; "training" me on how to handle her and what steps/training will be necessary to teach Sage what she needs to know going forward to get pass at the Master Test. What Chris does, is not a simple or easy process, but he does it effortlessly and with a smile! Sage is, personality-wise, the same sweet and sensitive dog I took to Chris at 8-months old, only now she runs blinds and is hammering double and triple marks! She is always excited when we have a chance to go back to see Chris at Granite Ledge to train or just visit. Sage and I plan to continue working with Chris as long as we can. Thanks Chris! more

I had Rocky in for 2 months of training last year and had great results first hunting season! I really watched Rocky develop over the season, and was confident in handling him. Chris does a phenomenal job with the dogs and is very patient with the owners too! really takes his time to explain how to handle the dog, what to do right, what not to do, and what to work on. I just had Rocky in for a week long tune-up & "reward" and plan to bring him in for a couple weeks this September. I picked up a very happy and healthy dog! I expect great things out of Rocky this fall! Thanks Chris! more

When we went to pick up our dog from Chris not only was he kept in a steel box with holes but he was greatly malnourished and had scratches all over his face. His response to the cuts on his face was "he got too close to one of the bitches". As he proceeded to give us the "demonstration" he improperly shocked our dog with the shock collar and our dog yelped because he attempted to say hi to us (by the way Chris didn't give us a chance to catch up with our dog after 4 months of not seeing him) all and all I would never recommend this trainer and I hope no one else make the same mistake as we did. It's been 2 years and finally now he has gained the weight he lost while being there. more

I saw Chris preparing for a hunt test and it was not a pretty sight. An AKC rep should watch his training techniques and boot him from the sport forever. more

I've gotten 2 dogs (both labs) from Chris at Granite Ledge Kennels and had him train both of them. Chris did a great job with them resulting in dogs that are well-behaved at home and out in the community. He took the time to explain the training he did along with what I should continue to do at home. Plus, his facility is very nice. He has a lot of space for training, and the kennels are kept clean. more

Granite Ledge Kennels and Chris have trained three of my dogs. All three achieved their AKC Master Hunter title under his care. The results speak for themselves. more

I have been able to go to Chris' kennel to train with him several times and it has always been a learning experience. His dogs have confidence and enthusiasm when they are working and work with Chris. It is a joy to see so much happiness coming from the dogs while doing difficult work. I am looking forward to getting out to Chris’ again this year; it is always a fun way to spend the day. It is easy to see how much Chris cares about all of the dogs. more

Please be aware that this trainer is very hard on animals that he trains.I would not recommend this kennel! more