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Wingbred Kennels
Zack Ziolkowski
Owner
Zack is a seasoned dog trainer and handler with over 5 years of experience in the field. He is certified in the prestigious NePoPo® New Silver and New Gold School, reflecting his commitment to advanced training techniques and methodologies.
Zack’s expertise extends beyond traditional obedience training. As a professional hunting guide, he has traveled the country with his six German Shorthaired Pointers, delivering exceptional dog work for clients in various terrains and hunting scenarios. His deep understanding of hunting breeds and their training needs has made him a sought-after guide and trainer.
Before establishing his own training services, Zack honed his skills as a full-time assistant trainer and guide at a renowned facility in Kansas, where he worked closely with top-tier hunting dogs and their owners. He also guided full-time for a prominent ranch in Texas, where his expertise and passion for the sport were on full display. Over the years he has guided full-time for various commercial preserves in New Jersey and is a New Jersey R3 Mentor.
Zack’s combination of formal training, hands-on experience, and a genuine love for dogs makes him a trusted and effective trainer, capable of bringing out the best in every dog he works with.
At Wingbred Kennels, we are dedicated to raising and training exceptional hunting partners and companions through a blend of cutting-edge techniques and a deep understanding of the breed’s unique qualities.
Our training programs utilize the renowned NePoPo® method, a modern approach that emphasizes the development of a strong, intuitive communication bond between dog and handler. This methodology ensures that your dog will become not only a bold and confident hunter but also a reliable partner in the field, fully understanding the tasks and cues you provide.
At Wingbred Kennels, the health and safety of our dogs are our top priorities. We maintain rigorous standards of care to ensure that every animal in thrives physically and emotionally. Our commitment to their well-being is evident in our detailed health protocols, enriched living environments, and personalized attention.
Join our program, where we are dedicated to crafting the ultimate hunting companion while upholding the highest standards of animal care and training excellence.
What do we offer?
Basic 3-Month and Advanced Board and Train for Pointing and Flushing Breeds
Our Basic 3-Month min Board and Train program is specifically designed for pointing and flushing breeds with a focus on developing their natural hunting instincts for upland birds. Throughout this intensive training program, your dog will be expertly guided to enhance their skills in the field, including:
- Pointing and Steadiness: Your dog will learn to hold a solid point, maintaining focus and control until the bird is flushed during your dogs Basic stay. Upon their Advanced course they will work towards being steady to wing, shot, and fall. We recommend hunting over your dog for a season after completing the basic course to let their natural instincts thrive.
- Flushing and Retrieving: Training will focus on teaching your dog to flush out birds from various cover and retrieve them with precision.
- Conditioning and Endurance: Your dog will be conditioned for the physical demands of upland hunting, ensuring they can work effectively across varying terrains and conditions. Weather dependent they will be exposed to water work, where confidence will be instilled.
- E-Collar Training: This will be integrated to reinforce commands and ensure reliable off-leash control during hunts.
Our Advanced Program is designed for experienced dogs that have already mastered the basics of upland bird hunting. This program focuses on refining and enhancing your dog’s skills to create a reliable and polished hunting companion.
- Steady to Wing, Shot, and Fall:
Your dog will be trained to remain steady through the flush, shot, and fall of the bird, ensuring they hold point without breaking until released. This discipline is crucial for maintaining control in the field and setting up successful retrieves. - Honoring Other Dogs:
Your dog will learn to honor (back) another pointing dog’s point, waiting patiently until the other dog finishes their task. This skill is essential for hunting in tandem with other dogs, promoting cooperation and efficiency in the field. - Bracework with Another Pointing Dog:
We’ll introduce your dog to bracework, allowing them to work effectively alongside another pointing dog. This training teaches your dog to stay focused on their task while maintaining awareness of their hunting partner’s actions, leading to smoother and more coordinated hunts. - Advanced Field Handling:
Your dog will be trained to respond to subtle commands and body language, allowing for precise control in complex hunting situations. - Exposure to Diverse Terrain & Birds:
Your dog will be exposed to a variety of upland bird species and different types of terrain, including fields, woods, and water environments. This ensures they are well-prepared for any hunting scenario you might encounter.
Throughout the program, we use structured sessions to build your dog’s confidence and reliability. With a focus on safety, cooperation, and expert handling, your dog will leave the program as a disciplined, high-performing partner ready for the challenges of advanced upland bird hunting.
This advanced program is ideal for handlers looking to compete in field trials or those who desire a top-level hunting dog for personal use. Let us help your dog reach their full potential and elevate your hunting experience!
Unforced Force Fetch
If a client would like their dog to have a retrieve placed on cue we specialize in the Unforced Force Fetch to create a strong natural drive for the bird. We then put that drive on cue to create a dog that will pick up birds in the field with power.
Our program is ideal for hunters who want a well-rounded, reliable companion in the field or testing grounds. Whether you’re preparing for your first hunt or refining your dog’s skills for testing, our Board and Train options will prepare your dog for the challenges of upland bird hunting, enhancing both their natural abilities and your overall hunting experience.
NePoPo® is a registered trademark of B.C.BB B.V.(Michael and Bart Bellon) and is used here with permission.
Interested in our training? Click here to get started!
Where will my dog stay during their training?
.Your dog(s) will be boarded in our home during their stay. In order to maintain a high level of training we house all dogs indoors to maintain a routine for their owners as well as for the health and well being of each animal in our care.
What are your operating hours?
We are open from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday. We’re closed on Sunday. Holiday hours may vary, so please call or check our website for specific information on those dates.
We are open by appointment only. Please do not pull up without reaching out as we train on our own grounds!
How long will my dog have to stay?
Most training plans are a 3-month minimum for enrollment. Dependent on goals for the dog that timeline may be adjusted. We pride ourselves on creating a language between handler and dog that is transferrable to their owner and therefore will not rush the process.
What if my dog is on a special diet/ needs daily, weekly, monthly meds?
That is no problem! Our staff is equipped to disperse medications and can handle diet restrictions. During drop off please bring their meds in a labeled bag with enough food for their stay.
What should we being with us for drop-off?
Please bring your dogs monthly meds as well as any daily or weekly meds, enough food for their stay, and a copy of their vaccination record!
What are people saying?
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Zack helped me work through training my first dog. I couldn’t be happier!
John C.
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I highly recommend Wingbred Kennels for anyone looking to train their dogs.
Patrick R.
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Wingbred Kennels exceeded my expectations. Zack is professional and caring about the health of each puppy he raises.
Heather T.