Next generation shines at young handlers’ event

Twenty-six young handlers, some as young as five years old, demonstrated remarkable natural ability at Muntjac Trading‘s inaugural Young Gundog Handlers Day on 3 August.

The ambitious event saw sessions run simultaneously across three prestigious estates: West Wycombe in Buckinghamshire (by permission of Sir Edward and Lady Dashwood), Enville in Worcestershire (courtesy of the Williams family), and East Staffordshire (on ground provided by Adam Peace and family), with professional trainers putting the children through challenging exercises.

“Total focus”

Training began with fun bond-building activities, including a dummy throwing competition, before progressing to heel work, sits and retrieves. The sessions culminated in more complex challenges: memory retrieves over fences, water work and mock beating lines that participants “thoroughly enjoyed”.

What impressed organisers most was the children’s remarkable focus and independence. Kit Taylor from Muntjac Trading noted how seriously the young handlers approached their training, maintaining “total focus” despite the occasional “mad cocker moment”.

“Promising young talent”

The day proved transformative for many participants. Jennifer Thomas from JT Dog Training said: “It was a brilliant day from start to finish, full of energy, laughter and some really promising young talent. Each young handler gave it their all, and it was a real joy to watch their confidence and teamwork with their gorgeous dogs grow as the day went on.”

Emma Stevens from Cunningshot Gundogs was equally impressed, noting how even 6-10-year-olds handled dogs independently while some older handlers managed two dogs simultaneously.

“Real-life skills”

Tucker Munday from Midland Gundog Training, father of two young daughters, saw deeper benefits: “In a world where they can potentially be glued to technology all day, dog training gets them outdoors and teaches real-life skills.”

Parents shared the enthusiasm. Antonia Mitchell said her son Bertie “came away feeling so inspired”, praising Muntjac’s “hands-on and meaningful” support for the next generation.

Every participant received gold medals, rosettes and comprehensive goody bags containing Muntjac dummies, leads, Acme whistles, and treats from sponsors including Skinner’s, CSJ Dog Food, and Millroe Natural Treats. Three professional photographers – Polo Images, Jack Cousins Photography, and Rachael Childs Photography – documented the day.

Following the overwhelming response, Muntjac plans to make this an annual fixture, potentially expanding to additional locations.

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