I would expose him to a few birds just to see what the dog does. This can be done at any game farm. Talk to the owner of the farm and they may ven palnt a few for ya free as you are not shooting them. And then that way you know exactly where the bird is. That is what I recommend. If the dog shows good interest the rest is easy.

And sorry - I don't agree with the e-collar comment at all.

A check cord - long piece of rope with a clasp is far better to start with. Let the dog grag that.

JW