Hi Karen, the retriever alley is a good tool to use in getting the dog to understand its OK to come in close and give up its prize, but you have to remember it is only a tool. The appropriate timing of praise I mentioned before is critical to the dog learning a good delivery, so ease off on the vocalisation on the return and wait until you have the retrieve in your hand. Be patient, don't make an issue out of any non delivery but wait until the dog gets it right ( giving these dogs the chance to work it out for themselves often gives better long term results) Again don't be in a hurry to take the retrieve from the dog, in a sense you want them to `show' you what they have/found and give them a sense of achievement before you take it from them. In the early stages of play retrieving with toys ( not Dummies) I always give the toy back to the dog and this builds a good foundation of trust. Sharon and Jim also made a good point in what posture you are in to receive the retrieve, this is very important as on the return the dog is reading your body language more than you appreciate, and what you think your saying is often not what the dog sees. A good trainer standing back and watching will pin point these mis-communications and put you right very quickly, so they are well worth seeking out. Many a `shy' retriever has been corrected by simply averting the handlers gaze away from the dog on its return, proof if any was needed how much importance dogs put on eye contact.
Peter