The gift

The dog's retrieve is a gift to you.  He found the bird.  He wants the bird.  Instead, he brings the bird to you.  You accept it as a grateful teammate.  Thank the dog in soothing tones.  No need for big praise.  The dog already is amped and doesn't need to be charged up more.  He just flushed the game.  He tracked it down after its fall.  He corralled the bird, maybe fought it, picked it up and has just run back to you with it.  Settle him.  Let him collect himself.  Get organized.  Settled.  Get ready to begin again.  Thank him.  Good boy.  Good girl.

Here girl!

Thank you.