Meet your Trainer
Rachel Willard
Hi, I’m Rachel, the trainer behind Mountain Standard Dog Training, and my passion lies in helping bird dogs thrive both as valued family members and capable hunting partners. I believe that the foundation for a great bird dog is built at home—through structure, consistency, and a strong relationship with their people. My love for dogs and training began early and has grown into a lifelong pursuit shaped by years of hunting, hands-on training, and involvement in the upland community.
Driven by Dogs.
Fueled by the Hunt.
My passion for dog training started at the age of six when I attended "puppy class" with my mom and our Shih Tzu puppy. From that moment, I was hooked—devouring books, watching training shows, and learning everything I could about different breeds, training methods, and dog competitions.
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Since bringing a Pudelpointer and a German Wirehaired Pointer into our family, my husband and I spend 45+ days each season hunting a variety of bird species across prairies, forests, and mountains.
Built in the Field.
Proven through Testing.
I am an active member of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA), where I train and handle dogs across multiple test levels.
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I have successfully handled dogs to Prize I finishes in the Natural Ability (puppy) Test, the Gun Dog Test, and the Utility Test for finished gundogs.
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In September 2025, my dog Sage and I earned the title "Versatile Champion" at the NAVHDA Invitational—the highest level of testing, where dogs demonstrate mastery in pointing, retrieving, and obedience.
Experience Across Breeds. Commitment Beyond the Field.
Beyond my own dogs, I’ve trained a variety of breeds while working with client dogs and fostering for Paws to Peaks Rescue, including English Setters, English Pointers German Shorthair Pointers, German Wirehair Pointers, Brittanies, and Labs.
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I also actively volunteer with HerUpland, participating in bird dog training camps and "Elevated Your Hunt" camps in western Montana.
Teaching with Patience. Training with Purpose.
With a background as a Physical Therapist, I have a deep understanding of how to teach and guide people with patience and compassion.
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This allows me to help dog owners develop training approaches tailored to both their dog's unique personality and their own individual needs.
Are you ready to have a
well-trained dog in the home and an exceptional hunting companion in the field?
Contact us to begin your dog training journey