Training dogs in to hunt and retrieve game requires land, guns, and birds.

[Labradorks]

I'm definitely one of the youngest in obedience and field work at 41. Though, I know a few people who are my age or a little younger who are into it as well. There are about five of us who are between 35 and 45 locally, and one person who is under 30. After 45 though, it seems like there is a big gap and then the vast majority are 60+. Agility attracts a younger crowd here, though nearly every serious obedience competitor I know locally also does agility regardless of age.

Apparently this has been a "problem" for a long time as most of the old-timers say that the same conversation has been had since they got started 40-50 years ago. I used to worry about it, but after hearing this dozens of times, not so much anymore.

Fenzi followers are actually on the younger side. I can't remember the exact numbers, but there are more under 50 than over. That might be where your younger people are congregating since it can be hard to find classes and trainers practicing more progressive methods (correctly, I might add), depending on your location. There are several who train exclusively through the academy.

[TuMicks]

Right. The advent of the internet can probably move the needle allowing people to do things somewhat independently. In field work, I think people underestimate how much training they can do alone. But ultimately, you have to train in a group, have some live fliers and such.