Cut Em work and praise is all most dogs need. Ducks can be a bit of a challenge for a dog to retrieve the first few times. I have been told that most dogs do not like the oil on the ducks feathers. They get over it quickly with a little work but that first time or two if not controlled properly can yield the results you mentioned. Sounds and looks, like you are on the right track now

. If you need birds let me know I have a few more then my pup needs (mostly quail and pheasant). Keep up the good work and have a great season.