Episode #199 Training Dogs the Right Way with Ray Voigt

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, Elliott sits down with Ray Voigt — longtime professional dog trainer and current Senior Specialist with Purina Pro Plan. Ray shares his journey from training his first retriever at age 14 to spending 15 years under legendary trainer Mike Lardy, helping produce more than 50 field champions. They dive deep into training philosophy, the value of pressure-based systems, and the differences between HRC, AKC, and field trials. Ray also shares advice on handling casting issues, improving line carries, and when to introduce a young dog to real hunts. Whether you're a hunt test competitor or a dedicated duck hunter, this episode is full of insight for anyone passionate about gun dogs. Flight Day Ammunition Bismuth that patterns beautifully. Flight Day Ammo delivers premium waterfowl loads that hit hard and pattern tight. Visit flightdayammo.com and use code FDH10 for 10% off. Shotty GearShotty Gear builds waterproof, rugged duck hunting gear that holds up to the grind. From shell pouches to duck straps to boat lighting — this is gear made by real hunters. Support small business at shottygear.com — use code FDH10 for 10% off. Weatherby Shotguns Legendary performance, sleek design. Whether you're in the timber or the marsh, Weatherby’s Element lineup delivers reliable cycling and solid knockdown power. Find out more at weatherby.com. OnX Hunt Know where you stand with OnX. Whether you're scouting public land or dropping pins on your honey hole, OnX gives you the tools to hunt smarter. Available on desktop and mobile. Purina Pro Plan Trusted by more pros than any other brand. Pro Plan delivers the nutrition elite dogs need to perform and recover. It’s the food behind the top hunt test and field trial dogs in the country. Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Steel bars, welded tie-down points, and a chrome-plated heavy-duty door frame. Search Mammoth dog crate or visit the Mammoth Pet Products store on Amazon. Roll cage sold separately. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices