I feel you can start any dog, any age. The trick is when to move the dog on, or backstep, because to much to fast, always pay attention to the dog. Honestly, it will tell you when its ready to go on, you'll see it in he way it acts with the retrieves or in the eyes. How old is the pup, and what have you done as far as retrieve stuff?? Thanks Jonesy
Doc E and wayne 1 will also join in, they are good also, with the retriever stuff. Patience is a key word, and always remember you are teaching. Usually twice, is plenty for the pup on retrieves, you will increase as time goes on, you put them away when they are jacked up, and they will be willing to come bak out and work again. Now this is most, but not all, you just don't want the boredom to set in, and it will help later boogers to occur.