🐾 Kicking Off the Trial Season: Back in the Field with Nels
There’s a special kind of buzz in the air when the gundog trial season rolls back around. The early mornings, the smell of damp bracken, the sharp anticipation before the whistle blows—it’s a feeling that’s hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it. And this year, it’s even more exciting for me and my working cocker spaniel, Nels, as we get ready to take on our second trial of the 2025 season.
Just a few weeks ago, Nels completed her second-ever trial, and her first of this year. I couldn’t have asked for more from her. She worked her heart out, handled the pressure brilliantly, and showed just how far she’s come. For such a young dog, she’s proving herself to be driven, focused, and full of promise. She’s learning with every run—and so am I.
Now, we’re gearing up for trial number two, and this one’s focused on rabbits. It’s always a test, but it’s the kind of challenge we thrive on. No matter the outcome, what matters most is the bond we’re building and the memories we’re making.
👋 A Warm Welcome to a Brilliant Community
One thing I’ve come to truly appreciate is just how welcoming and supportive the gundog trialling world is. Whether you're a first-time handler or a seasoned competitor, there's always someone happy to offer a word of advice, share a laugh, or lend a hand. It's not just about the competition—it's about being part of a community of like-minded people who are passionate about working dogs, training, and the great outdoors.
If you’ve ever thought about giving it a go, or even just fancy learning more, I can’t recommend it enough. Joining a local gundog club is the best way to get started—most clubs are incredibly friendly and open to newcomers. You’ll learn more in a few sessions with an experienced trainer than you ever could from reading online, and the friendships you build are a bonus.
To help you take that first step, head over to our website, Gundog Gear, where we’ve put together a handy list of gundog trainers and clubs across the UK. It’s all about making it easy for anyone to get involved in this amazing sport.
🛒 We’re With You in the Field
At Gundog Gear, we’re not just another company selling dog kit. We’re handlers, trainers, and triallers ourselves. We know the highs, the lows, the soaked-through waterproofs, and the buzz of a good retrieve. We have skin in the game, and that’s why everything we stock is chosen with care—because we use it too.
Whether you're just starting out or are a few seasons in, we’re here to help kit you and your dog out with the best gear for training and trialling. From dummies and leads to training vests, game carriers, and accessories—we’ve got everything you need to get the most out of your time in the field.
And more than that, we’re rooting for you. When you buy from Gundog Gear, you're not just supporting a business—you’re joining a community of people who genuinely care about the sport and the dogs at the heart of it.
🎯 Here’s to the Season Ahead
So here’s to the early mornings, the muddy boots, the long walks, and the wagging tails. To the missed flushes, the steady retrieves, the near misses and the brilliant runs. To everyone stepping into the trialling world for the first time—and those returning for another season.
We’ll see you in the field.
And if you’re thinking about getting involved—do it. There’s a space for you here, and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
👉 Find a club or trainer near you https://www.gundoggear.co.uk/gundog-directory--clubs-trainers-forums--shooting-holidays-3-w.asp
👉 Explore our full range of trialling gear https://www.gundoggear.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooLlY3Yr4zy4oZJ29INC2Z3rVmptCeLEnia6GUUG30_FUB618SD
#TrialSeason2025 #WorkingCockerSpaniel #GundogTrials #GundogTraining #TeamNels #SpanielInTheField #WeTrainToo #GundogGear