How To Train A Dog To Fetch
Fetch is a classic and fun game to play with your canine but not all dogs know how to play. Sometimes you have to train a dog to fetch and others understand the retrieval game instinctively. Some dogs will be much more difficult to train than others but it's definitely not impossible to train. Especially if you make it fun!
Training
The Object
You have to have a toy your dog really loves, one he is really into. You may have to try a few toys and get his absolute favorite.
Play
Get in a playful mood really have him into the toy. Go ahead and throw it a short distance, he should go for it. If he doesn't the toy just might not be exciting enough or maybe your not! Remember to have fun.
Retrieve
If he goes for the toy that's a great sign! For a dog that's one half of fetch. Keep practicing this. You can call him back and really tell him what a good boy he is if he brings the toy and throw again. If he doesn't bring the toy back don't chase him. That will only be a game for him, probably much funner to him as well. If he doesn't come you can sit down and wait for him or run away. Running away often will encourage the dog to chase you. If he doesn't bring the toy back at all it could be because he has lost interest. Make sure bringing the toy back to you is a very exciting, fun positive experience.
You have to have a toy your dog really loves, one he is really into. You may have to try a few toys and get his absolute favorite.
Play
Get in a playful mood really have him into the toy. Go ahead and throw it a short distance, he should go for it. If he doesn't the toy just might not be exciting enough or maybe your not! Remember to have fun.
Retrieve
If he goes for the toy that's a great sign! For a dog that's one half of fetch. Keep practicing this. You can call him back and really tell him what a good boy he is if he brings the toy and throw again. If he doesn't bring the toy back don't chase him. That will only be a game for him, probably much funner to him as well. If he doesn't come you can sit down and wait for him or run away. Running away often will encourage the dog to chase you. If he doesn't bring the toy back at all it could be because he has lost interest. Make sure bringing the toy back to you is a very exciting, fun positive experience.
TIPS: DO
- DO practice fetch often, especially when first beginning. Since its just a short throw you can even practice around the house.
- DO try using things your dog really loves, maybe a favorite stuffed dog toy. It may not travel like a ball but when they are just learning to fetch it definetly needs to be something they really want to get.
TIPS: DON'T
- DON'T get angry at a dog who isn't fetching, be patient and positive!
- DON'T start training in an area with allot of distractions. The park may seem like a great place to play fetch but when a dog is first learning a busy public area is one of the worst places to start. Try inside and private property with less things to take your dogs attention off fetch.
Fetch!
Not every dog will excel at fetch but for many it is a very addicting game! It can be a great way to bond and play with your dog, providing great exercise and fun. Keep practicing and your canine will get the idea. Always remember to let them know the behavior you want by rewarding and praising that behavior. Enjoy!
How To Train A Dog To Fetch Video
