camelcluch

I would say that there is not a "gun shy" dog but rather dogs that do not assoiate the loud noise with something good. You have to make these loud noises mean something to the dogthat they enjoy. If you are looking for a retrieve, the noise should get the dog fired up because they get to do something fun. Doing this is the trick. I would try using a small cap gun and use that doing simple retrieving drills. Throw the bumper and when the dogs goes to retrieve it fire a small cap. Make sure the dog is in a full run at this time. They shouldhardly notice the cap gun. When they seem comfortable with that try shooting the gun during the throw. Then start all over but step up the noise to a starters pistol. You should be fine just take your time and make sure the noise is fun for the dog.