About Us
A life long love of animals and being outdoors led to the dream realized today as Sundance Retrievers. Inspired by the Sawtelle dogs, the mission of Sundance Retrievers focuses on working with young retrievers to fulfill their genetic possibilities and making them the best version of themselves.
Our Experience :
With over twenty years of experience in dog training, we have had the privilege of working with field dogs and show lines from North America, Ireland, and Great Britain. Our expertise lies in training labrador retrievers for the field and fulfilling their role as family companions.
We have also successfully rehabilitated troubled retrievers, which has been personally rewarding for us.
In addition to our years of experience, we are also an Animal Behavior College Service Dog Trainer, an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, an AKC Temperament Evaluator, and a member of the AKC Bred With Heart program,
Our credentials also include being a certified pet evaluator for Therapy Pets Unlimited, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers ( APDT), a certified trainer with the Canine Council for Professional Dog Trainers ( CPDT—KA), and certified in Pet Psychology ( HCRUIO5) and Canine Communication (BX2K211S).
Having worked with so many different canines, we have a clear understanding of the possibilities for building great gun dogs, family companions, and working dogs.
Our Approach to Training :
At the core of Sundance Retrievers, we have combined time-tested methods with current thinking and new technologies to implement a four-step training process:
1. Teach – Give actions a name and mark that behavior with praise.
At this stage, the cue is a request.
2. Enforce – Cues become commands by applying corrections
and praise, i.e., “empowerment through choice”;
3. Groove – Repeat the desired response until it is automatic.
4. Apply – Transition the learned behavior into the field.
Our training program is based on the belief that building sound, quality animals requires fairness and consistency. Only by teaching with patience and understanding can one develop a companion that will be your best friend and trusted hunting partner.
Where we work and play :
Sundance Retrievers is located at Willow Farm, a private 200-acre hunting preserve. Constantly surrounded by family, our labrador retrievers thrive in a stimulating and nurturing atmosphere.
Sheryl Sundean, Boss ABCSDT, CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator, SAR Handler -Basic,
When not teaching young dogs and clients, I thoroughly enjoy guiding my own hunting team at local upland and waterfowl preserves.
During the evening, you’ll usually find me reading a new book about dog psychology with a cup of tea and listening to classical music.
On the weekends, I go horseback riding whenever possible. As an explorer at heart, I truly enjoy spending time in the small towns I encounter while delivering dogs to their new homes.
Scott Sundean, not Boss
Semi – retired, Scott enjoys working on projects around the preserve , going hunting with Dave and tending to the Purple Martin colony that calls Sundance home.
Dave Sundean, Short Boss
When Dave isn’t playing with puppies or helping train dogs, you can usually find him on his four wheeler or checking his trap line. He also enjoys fishing and cooking over the campfire.
Rachael
CGC Evaluator
Service, Shed, Adv.Companion and Companion dog trainer
Maddy
CGC Evaluator
Service, Comfort K-9, Adv. Companion and Companion trainer
Hi, My name is Maddy; When I’m not training dogs at Sundance, you can find me hanging out with my own dogs. I also enjoy exploring the great outdoors and taking long, peaceful walks in the woods, kayaking down a river, or watching a sunset around a campfire with friends.
Michaela
Foundation and Head Start Puppy Trainer
Hi! I’m Michaela. A head start puppy trainer here at Sundance Retrievers. I enjoy spending time with animals and experiencing the outdoors. Besides working with dogs here at Sundance Retrievers, my favorite activities include raccoon hunting with my American English Coonhounds, Trout Fishing, and competing at local shows on my cutting horses.
Laurie
Office Manager and Puppy Cuddles
When I’m not updating vaccine records and cuddling puppies, I enjoy baking cookies and visiting family members.
Our weekend and evening staff is made up of a dedicated team of young adults. They specialize in puppy adventures and field trips to their homes or into town.