Purina Masterclass
The All-Purpose Retriever Blueprint: Building a True Canine Decathlete
Every handler dreams of a dog that can do it all — a trusted hunting companion, a confident Hunt Test dog, and a polished Field Trial performer. But is that really possible with just one retriever?
In this free Purina Masterclass, Pat Burns is joined by friend and colleague Ray Voigt to share the blueprint for building a truly versatile retriever — a canine decathlete capable of thriving in multiple arenas.
👉 What you’ll learn:
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The key building blocks for early development and transition work
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How to balance hunting, Hunt Tests, Field Trials, and even SRS
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When crossover training helps (and when it can hurt)
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Why clarity, structure, and balance are the foundation of a well-rounded dog
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How Ray’s dog Rumor became both a successful field trial competitor and Master National qualifier
Presented by:
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Ray Voigt
Ray Voigt is a Senior Specialist with Purina in the Retriever, Spaniel, and Herding segments. Born and raised in Northern Minnesota, Ray developed a deep love for animals and the great outdoors at an early age. His passion for dogs led him to pursue a career as a professional retriever trainer, where he honed his skills and expertise over a span of 20 years.
For 14 years, Ray worked with Handjem Retrievers under the guidance of Mike Lardy, becoming an integral part of the team. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in training and handling numerous dogs, resulting in an impressive track record. Ray's contributions were instrumental in helping 48 dogs achieve their FC (Field Champion) and AFC (Amateur Field Champion) titles.
Having joined Nestle Purina, Ray is excited to give back to the world of dog sports that has shaped his life. His two decades of professional experience, combined with the valuable relationships he has built with fellow trainers, provide him with a unique perspective and a wealth of real-world insights. Ray's unwavering commitment to his craft and his profound understanding of retrievers, spaniels, and herding dogs make him an invaluable asset in his role as a Senior Specialist.