Run with the best in Texas!

What began with Rody and Kristin Best, their three boys, and a handful of dogs in a spare bedroom has grown into one of the top training programs in the country. Built on faith, hard work, and a deep love for dogs, Best Retrievers remains a family-run operation with heart behind everything we do.
Over the years, we’ve grown from 21 acres to 120, and from 20 kennels to a full team of expert trainers and staff. But our mission is still the same—helping dogs become the very best version of themselves, whether they’re headed home to a family or out to the field.

Best Retrievers has achieved remarkable success in the world of retriever training, boasting an impressive track record of accomplishments:

The AKC Hunt Test series evaluates a retriever’s natural hunting abilities and trained skills. Dogs are tested at three levels—Junior, Senior, and Master—through realistic hunting scenarios like marked retrieves, blinds, and honoring. It’s designed to prove that a dog is a capable field companion. Titles are earned based on consistency and performance across multiple tests.

• Over 1500 Master passes
• Over 700 Senior passes
• Over 1800 Junior passes
• More than 150 Master Hunter Titles
• 150 Senior Hunter Titles
• 350 Junior Hunter Titles

We’re proud to have consistently excelled 

at national-level events:

• 12 Master Nationals, with over 95 Master National Passes and an 80% pass ratio
• 17 dogs inducted into the Master National Hall of Fame

The Super Retriever Series is a high-level, invite-only competition that combines both field trial/hunt test skills and sporting dog agility and marking ability. It’s fast-paced and challenging, meant to showcase the most versatile retrievers in the country. Dogs compete in events that demand accuracy, speed, handling, and advanced teamwork with their handler.

• 18 Super Retriever Series Champions
• 15 Super Retriever Series wins

The HRC offers hunt tests that mirror real hunting conditions, using actual hunting gear and firearms (blanks). Dogs are tested in Started, Seasoned, and Finished categories. The HRC emphasizes “a dog you can take to the field on Saturday and to a hunt test on Sunday”—a real-world retriever with proven skill and control.

• Nearly 40 Hunting Retriever Champions
• 14 Grand Hunting Retriever Champions

These accomplishments reflect our commitment to excellence and our dedication to training top-tier retrievers that excel both in the home and in the field.