After the dog understands landmarks, you may progress to water marks. This exercise also uses a “thrower” and a small pond or water area. Have the “thrower” toss the dummy into the water, then release the dog to retrieve it. Do not have duck decoys in the water at this time. You may put some decoys on land by the water entry.

After the dog has learned to run through the decoys on land and retrieve the dummy out of the water, you can place a couple duck decoys in the water. Remember to praise the dog for a job well done.
(See diagram.)