I have owned Springers, two of them. I never had this problem, but it seems as if he hasn't had much exposure like the other guys said. One thing for sure I can tell you. DON'T start with a 50' check cord. Start with a 10' rope until he learns to stay with you and hunt and quarter the way you want him to. I suggest using quail, not pigeons. A quail will flush and fly a short distance. This will teach your dog to find birds in your range. A pigeon will fly away ,this will teach your dog to chase. You don't want that. To teach him to retrieve and stay legal you can use a dead pigeon or quail. Once your dog starts to range out,you won't stop him. Train him to stay within your 10' range until it is drilled into him that he knows that is his range. Then increase it to 15' then 20' up to 50'. You will notice then he will increase range on his on. I have a book by Talbot Radcliff from England. You can get it at a book store. Great Book! If ther is anything I can do to help you , let me know.