learning to listen to you is NO.1.after that,GETTING DOGS AROUND LOTS OF BIRDS.
its that easy .i seen dogs that LISTENED and owner never took them hunting.
i took their dog with me out to private preserve to train for pheasants.
they picked up on it quick.
if its in dog, it will come out no matter what age.
if they dont listen ,it will not work. that is what comes first.