[RWebb]

one thing about training is that some of the components are essentially built-in and you simply need to link them together to get the full behavior

e.g. for a retrieve - the dog already has a propensity to 1. go out after something (like a splash), 2. put things in its mouth, and 3. come back to you

the give is the harder part

I trained my Goldens to not touch stacks of paper on the floor but that paper in a waste basket was ok - and to show it to me before tearing it up

on way to do this is to tell the dog to 'retrieve' the paper to you, give it up and then you either:
1. praise and give it back to them
or 2. take it and tell them no-no BUT give them something even better IN EXCHANGE
(like a chewie or food treat)

always praise you child when it does something good - same goes for your dog

also, both entities need to learn that if they want something they need to earn it (by doing some form of "work")