THE STANDARD IN GUN DOG EXCELLENCE
When you hand over your dog to us, you’re not just signing up for training — you’re joining a legacy built on deep respect for the bond between a hunter and their companion. At Smoky Mtn Labradors, we don’t just see potential — we see purpose. These dogs aren’t machines; they’re partners, and we train them with patience, consistency, and heart. Because we know what it feels like to step into the field and rely on a dog that’s steady, focused, and ready — not just because they were taught commands, but because they were raised with care. You can trust us because we train every dog like it’s our own. Not for trophies — for trust. For connection. For the hunt that lives in both of you.
THE SMOKY MTN GUN DOG LIFE
With decades of experience behind us, we’ve developed a training process that’s as precise as it is proven — a true science built on passion, patience, and purpose. We’re equipped to navigate any challenge and shape dogs that rise to every occasion. But it all starts with our foundation: the exceptional breeding behind every Smoky Mtn Labrador. Our training program isn’t open to the public — it’s a private offering, reserved exclusively for members of the SML family. Because we believe the best results come from knowing our dogs, their lines, and the legacy they carry. For more info, you can also visit our gundog website
Phase One
When your pup arrives for training, we begin with two key phases. The first focuses on foundational obedience and gentle introductions to the hunting world.
Gun Fire Intro
We carefully introduce gunfire in a controlled, positive environment, so your dog learns to associate the sound with excitement, birds, and the job they were born to do.
Water Intro
We build your dog’s confidence in the water early on, so they enter with enthusiasm, no matter the conditions.
Bird Intro
For a young pup, birds can be intimidating — but through our proven system, we build drive and confidence, shaping a bold retriever that’s eager to recover game.
Marks
We train your dog to accurately mark downed birds, setting them up for efficient and confident retrieves.
Phase Two
Phase two is all about refinement. While fundamentals continue to be reinforced, we focus on addressing the unique challenges each dog presents—so you don’t have to.
Blinds
During basic retriever training, we begin teaching the dog to actively search for and locate birds they didn’t mark or see fall.
Steadiness
We train the dog to sit calmly on command—a skill that’s essential in the duck blind and a welcome bonus for your home.
Basic Obedience
We will top everything off with the basics of sit, heal, stay, place, kennel, and heal.
