You can start a pup at 3 months easy with the training. However, the pups will not get their adult teeth until approx. 6 months. I started mine with a rubber antler and watched their mouth before they are moved to hard antlers. Much of the retriever training is done with bumpers in the beginning. Short duration and 2 or 3 sessions a day in the first 2 or 3 months. It is better to leave them hungry than to wear them out. If a pup is having a bad day, cut that session short or stop it. You don't want to build bad habits. I realize I am about 6 months past your post date but others may have the same question. Wayne
