Good post Doc.Dogs are not born gun shy,timid yes gun shy no.Thats a man made fault by improper gun introduction.I haven't checked the link provided,but from personal experience and Deerhuntress said this too,Excitement is the key.Get your dog super excited,weither it be chasing a few birds or really excited fetching drills and start off with a cap gun and at a distance.Have a freind or yourself fire the cap gun when the dog is heading away from you charing after a bird or your fetch dummy,when hes a good distance away fire your cap gun.Its a gradual process so going slow is key.If the dogs shows any sign of the shot being fired,just ignore him like it never happened,stop for the day and try again another day.

I'd like to add if its a mild case,excitement drills often will help if done correctly.If its a hard deep rooted fear,professional help may be your only answer.Gunshyness can be cured.It takes great patience,so dont expect a quick fix.Theres also some professionals that offer guarenteed results.I will check the link Doc provided and always willing to answer any questions if you have them.My info is a condensed version.Best of luck.Take care,Jackson..