Could it be to much protein in his diet.
I was told to do this with my mad spaniel and i can honestly say it slightly slowed him down.was on 22% and now on 18%.
Give it a go mate it might work.
As above i would like to join a syndicate in north wales.
I am from Mold and would like to join a working syndicate close to home if there are any places available.
Very small stream to start him in the water mate.Woodland is very thick with brambles at this time of the year so just walk through the woodland with him and get him hunting quatering ect.