Wildwind Kennels – Upland Dog Training and Field Trial Excellence
Located in Knox, Maine, Wildwind Kennels is a distinguished training facility specializing in field-bred English Springer Spaniels and retrievers. Established by Jim and Denise Keller, Wildwind Kennels has earned a national reputation for producing elite gundogs and providing exceptional training services for hunting enthusiasts and competitive field trial participants.
Jim Keller, a highly respected professional trainer and handler, has successfully trained and field-championed numerous spaniels across the United States and Canada. His daughter, Deanna Keller, has followed in his footsteps, working alongside her father and gaining extensive experience in training and handling competitive spaniels. Together, they continue the Wildwind legacy of excellence in gundog training and field trials.
Field Trial Achievements
Jim Keller has an extensive and decorated career in spaniel field trials, earning multiple national championships and training some of the most accomplished spaniels in the sport. His achievements include:
- 140+ All-Age Field Champion Titles
- 9 National Championship Titles, including:
- 2022 U.S. National Open Springer
- 2021 U.S. National Amateur Springer
- 2015 U.S. National Open & Amateur Springer
- 2014 U.S. National Open Springer
- 2013 Canadian National Amateur Springer
- 2010 U.S. National Amateur Springer
- 2009 U.S. National Open Cocker
- 2006 U.S. National Open Springer
- 4 National High Point Open Titles
- 55+ U.S. and Canadian National Placements, including Certificates of Merit
- 1 Highest-Point Spaniel of All Time
- 4 Bird Dog Hall of Fame Inductees (Zip, Jake, Scratch, and Annie)
Jim Keller’s reputation as one of the sport’s top trainers and handlers is further recognized through his multiple Hogan Award wins, given to the year’s most outstanding professional handler based on a weighted points system:
- 2017 Hogan Award Winner
- 2015 Hogan Award Runner-Up
- 2014 Hogan Award Winner
Through rigorous training methods, a deep understanding of spaniels, and a commitment to excellence, Jim and Deanna Keller continue to develop and train top-tier field trial competitors and highly skilled hunting companions.
Services Offered
Wildwind Kennels provides a comprehensive range of training and boarding services for both competitive field trial dogs and hunting companions. Services include:
Puppy Development
- Early socialization and exposure to birds, terrain, and training fundamentals.
- Building confidence and drive while fostering a strong human-canine bond.
Basic Obedience Training
- Teaching fundamental commands for well-mannered dogs at home and in the field.
- Leash training, recall, and off-lead control.
Advanced Gun Dog Training
- Field training tailored to upland bird hunting.
- Marking, retrieving, flushing, and steadying drills for polished gundogs.
Field Trial Preparation
- Specialized conditioning and training for spaniel field trials.
- Handling techniques and advanced drills to maximize performance.
Boarding Services
- A safe, comfortable environment with personalized care.
- Available for both short- and long-term stays.
At Wildwind Kennels, training focuses on positive reinforcement through birds, repetition, and engaging exercises, ensuring that each dog develops confidence, drive, and responsiveness in the field.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding training, available litters, or boarding services, please contact Wildwind Kennels:
Address: 1368 Webb Road, Knox, ME 04986
Phone: (207) 568-3575
Email: [email protected]
Website: wildwindkennels.com
Hours of Operation
Wildwind Kennels operates by appointment only to ensure each client receives dedicated attention. Please call or email to schedule a visit or consultation.
Commitment to Excellence
Wildwind Kennels is dedicated to producing and training premier field-bred English Springer Spaniels, selectively breeding from top-performing field champions in the U.S. and Canada. The kennel’s breeding program emphasizes natural hunting instincts, exceptional temperaments, and outstanding trainability.
For those looking for a highly trained hunting partner, Wildwind Kennels occasionally offers started and finished dogs for sale. Their philosophy prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring that each dog meets the highest standards for both hunting and field trial competition.
Additionally, training seminars and mock trials are offered periodically, providing handlers and their dogs with valuable experience in realistic trial environments.
With a proven track record of championship-winning dogs and world-class training, Wildwind Kennels remains a leader in the upland dog training and spaniel field trial community. Whether you are seeking a top-tier field trial competitor, a dependable hunting partner, or expert training for your spaniel, Jim and Deanna Keller are committed to helping each dog reach its full potential.