How the “Kennel” Command Can Help You Find More Ducks
Every hunter knows the heartbreak of watching a bird sail out of reach. A steady, reliable retriever can change that, and the “kennel” command is one of the best tools to get there. By teaching this concept, you’ll improve your dog’s steadiness, strengthen their understanding of hand signals, and build confidence in the field. It also boosts marking ability and prepares your retriever for a wide range of hunting scenarios.
Why the Kennel Command Works
The “kennel” command is common in the dog world, often used to get a dog in a crate or into the truck. By adapting it for training and hunting, you turn a familiar command into one of the most valuable tools for building a steady duck dog. This drill creates focus, precision, and confidence in ways few others can.
Tools You’ll Need
A kennel, stand, hide, or placemat
A long lead or rope clipped to the collar
A bumper for retrieves
My preferred setup is the bottom half of an old two-piece kennel. These are cheap, easy to find, and usually white or tan, which makes them stand out in the field.
Starting in the Yard
Begin in a simple environment with little to no cover. A grassy backyard or park works well.
Place your dog facing the kennel. Command “kennel” while leading them into the kennel.
Turn the dog so all four paws are inside, then command SIT.
Repeat several times until the dog is comfortable.
Once steady, throw a bumper as a reward.
Run 4 to 6 retrieves per session, 3 to 4 times a week. This helps your dog associate the kennel with positive rewards and builds steadiness.
Remote Sends
Once your dog understands the kennel drill up close, begin teaching remote sends.
Start with your dog a few yards away from the kennel, facing it.
Command “kennel” and move with your dog if needed.
Reward with a retrieve once the command is completed.
Gradually increase distance until your dog can confidently run back to the kennel on command.
Angle Back Casts
Angle back casts teach precision and reinforce hand signals.
Position your dog in front of you on a lead, with the kennel angled back to the left or right.
Give an angle back cast with your hand and command “kennel.”
If the dog hesitates, use body language and vocal inflection to guide them.
Reward with a retrieve once completed.
Focus on 6 to 10 steady retrieves with variation in distance and angles. Remember the three S’s if confusion arises: Stop, Simplify, and get Success.
Moving to the Field
When your dog is confident in the yard, it is time to add distractions.
Begin in an open field with light cover at about 20 yards.
Gradually extend retrieves to 60–120 yards, occasionally pushing to 150–200 if the dog is ready.
Add variables like cover, angles, and even gunfire once the dog is conditioned.
Mix in water scenarios such as swamps, flooded timber, and rivers.
Variation is key. Rotate between throwing angles, terrain, and environments to build a well-rounded retriever.
Common Pitfalls and Fixes
If the dog creeps or breaks, stop with the lead and pick up the bumper.
If the dog shows confusion, simplify the drill and shorten distance.
Keep sessions short, positive, and consistent.
Final Thoughts
The “kennel” command is more than a simple drill. It sharpens steadiness, expands your dog’s marking ability, and builds confidence across a range of environments. With patience and consistency, this method will help create a reliable duck dog ready for any cover and any bird.
