There is a lot to it but it is not difficult. It takes
TIME and
REPETITION. The first thing that needs to be done is to get the dog to WANT to find that scent and get it to
associate the scent with a reward. Using a rolled up rag about 10-12 inches long,tied with twine in a couple of places and
loaded with the scent for a play toy is the best way to start him.
Only play with the dog with a scent loaded toy and nothing else. The rag should be loaded for a couple days at least before you use it. You can shave old antlers and put them in a sealed container with rags in with it to soak up scent. Rags can be washed after training to get dog drool and other scent off it ,dried and "reloaded". Use white rags ONLY.
Throw it and having him go after it and allways give the command to SEARCH
every time you throw it!. Play tug of war (never with a retriever)and let them win giving them praise for doing what you want and winning at tug of war. Taking it when he is not looking and teasing him getting him excited then throwing it again. Try to get the dog to the point it LOVES the game and associates the scent with fun and reward. After they know the game and the scent, start throwing it into high weeds and grass so they have to use their
nose to find it. When they are good at finding it by the scent then it is time to start serious training and teaching the dog to "indicate" a find. Now you need to decide if you want the dog to bring it back to you or scratch at it and whine(aggressive alert) or sit down and look at it (passive alert)? Using an antler as a toy/training aid for a shepherd is not a good idea. They would ruin the antler IMHO. The idea is to get the shed in hand in prestine condition. Hopefully porcupines and mice dont get to it before you do. This is where things get technical and would take many a long phone conversation or multiple emails to hammer out details. The key to begin with is to get the dog to want that scent !
This is my dog luke at about 6 months old.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHW23e5tYoo