It Takes Wild Birds to Make a Bird Dog
This old gundog trainer saying was never more true when it comes to grouse and woodcock dogs. At Grouse Creek we develop flushing and pointing breeds to excel on these two amazing birds. The ability to handle ruffed grouse makes a dog that can handle most any other upland bird.
The Grouse Creek Team
Chris Butz - Trainer and Orvis-endorsed Wingshooting Guide
Chris has been chasing wild birds for almost 40 years. Growing up on ruffed grouse and wild bobwhite quail, he knows the benefit of a great pointing or flushing dog. He also enjoys flushing breeds and has been using them in the Northwoods almost 15 years.
The Dogs
Grouse hunting has been described as a long walk in the woods carrying a gun. That is very true and it's a wonderful way to spend the day. However, hunting behind a gundog breed that is the master of the art takes your day to a whole other level. Yes, we pursue the birds. But we keep doing it for the dog work too.
Leelanau's Lilly of the Valley
Call name "Lilly"
Breed: English Setter
It all started with Lilly. As of 2025, she will turn 11 and is still going strong as my lead guide dog. Out of Leelanau Setters, she can go from our bed to the grouse woods in perfect style.
Yda Von Ahler Esch
Call name "Yda"
Breed: Large Munsterlander
Chris imported Yda as a puppy from Germany. Fascinated by Large Munsterlanders and feeling that this might be a great versatile breed for the grouse woods, he went right to the source. Man was he right. With a "go all day" trot and natural staunch point she is a treat to watch.
Double T's Aspen
Call name "Aspen"
Breed: British Labrador
Aspen was the second lab that Chris trained entirely in the British methods. Without any use of the e-collar, she is trained to whistle and handles with hand signals. She is a loving, proper gal who is getting along in age at almost 8 years old.
Beggarbush's Cassie and Fern
Call name: "Cassie" and "Fern"
Breed: English Cocker Spaniels
Both imported from Ben Randall in the UK, these are two of the three EC that Chris has imported over the years. Chris began hunting ruffed grouse and woodcock over English Cockers almost 15 years ago. This was before the present "Cocker Craze" and he knew that they would be perfect for our Northwoods pursuits.
While Cassie is now enjoying retirement in a loving family home, Fern is still actively getting after it in the Northwoods at almost 9 years old.
Wooden Beavers Playground
Long Beard
When we start a new project, you can expect 100% quality and craftsmanship. All projects include no-nonsense tools and materials. On top of this, we also make sure to give an authentic appearance and that includes a well groomed beard.
Lumberjack Shirt
No construction job would seem authentic without us wearing Lumberjack Shirts. No matter how hot it is outside, you should expect us to wear our signature red and black lumberjack shirts. On special occasions, we wear blue denim shirts.
Masculine Armpits
When getting real close, you will be greeted with the true essence of masculine woodworking. A sent including (but not limited to) hints of coffee, leather, pinewood, tobacco, grease, oil, old tools, rust and of course, molted old forest cabin.
Latest Project
The new owners of Idaho Tea & Coffee House wanted to give their place a complete makeover. We turned this boring looking cafe into a remarkable place. Both inside and outside, we built new furniture made to last heavy use and bad weather. All the wood used for the project was delivered from a nearby sawmill.
Let's work together
If you have a creative project in mind, get in contact with Wooden Beavers today! When it comes to quality woodworking, we are the first you should call. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
Wooden Beavers
4716 Kemper Lane
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84104
Phone: 801-927-7117