i have always started with associating the gun w/ good times. carry a gun when you go to feed. take the gun along when you take you friend on a truck ride. i usually just have the gun leaning against the truck, tree, or where ever. start working the action as the dog begins to eat. stop the minute he gets uncomfortable. it is easier to take it slow than create a problem. when he doesn't seem to pay the noise of the action much attention, wander off a bit an shoot away in a safe direction. start throwing "fun" bumpers with a shot fired by you or a buddy at the end of a training session. just get him to notice the gun means fun! if it doesn't work out, i have had some great Loveadors that didn't hunt much. good luck and good hunting.