Anton is named for the composer, Anton Bruckner, and his work, Te Deum.

Anton's nicknames: Happy-go-lucky, The Runt

Anton's song: Te Deum

Anton's pedigree
Antons's littermates

Co-owned and loved by Kelly Chambliss and David Kunkle, Anton is a handsome and happy-go-lucky chap who wags his way through all of life’s great adventures, especially those involving his big ‘bro’ Gustav (Ardenwood’s Gustav as a Wayfarer SH WC). The stars aligned when evaluating Anton’s litter as my field pick and a conformation favorite were one in the same, and David and Kelly were hoping to do both. They managed to survive the wild ride of Anton’s puppy-hood and thanks to their dedicated training, Anton is showing great promise in his hunt test and show career. As David and Kelly live locally and train and hunt on the same grounds that I do, I’ve been fortunate to watch him grow-up and always enjoy his farm visits. Aside from his stunning good looks and remarkable field ability, I’m especially pleased with his temperament – confident, unflappable, and socially easy-going, Anton integrates well into the pack when he visits and is an easy dog to fall in love with. 

In the field, Anton is a stylish retriever with excellent marking abilities. He earned his first JH leg just before his first birthday and finished his title soonafter, going 4 for 4 in tests. But, he was only getting started - Anton went on to earn his WC with signature flying water entries, and already has 3 Senior Hunter legs to his credit, earning his first leg at 25 months. He takes pressure well, learns quickly, and is a pliable and willing worker. Anton confidently holds lines on very long marks and through obstacles, is fearless in water and cover, and quite steady at the line in spite of his enthusiasm. He demonstrates excellent memory, water aptitude, and overall trainability.

Anton is a moderate and racey dog not lacking in bone. He has a level topline and excellent angulation that is well complemented by his length of loin, all translating into clean, ground-covering movement. His ‘man-chest’ is continuing to drop-in, revealing a lovely front. Anton sports a super typey yet masculine head, complemented by very dark eyes, free-floating brows, and a melt-your-heart expression. His coat is of correct length and texture.