How To Teach A Dog To Fetch

Learning how to teach a dog to fetch isn't as hard as it may seem. Dogs are eager to learn and please their owners. With the right guidance and instructions, you can quickly teach a dog this wonderful activity. This article will show you how to quickly and easily teach a dog to fetch.

To teach a dog to fetch, you will need:

• two tennis balls

1. Throw the first ball. The first step in teaching a dog to fetch is to throw the first ball and let the dog run and get it. Let the dog acknowledge the ball by sniffing it before you throw it. When the dog returns, ask the dog to "drop it." Most dogs will bring the ball back to the owner, but some will continue to play with it instead of dropping it. They will also grab the ball and run when the owner comes towards them. This is normal playing behavior.
2. Ignore the dog. If the dog refuses to drop the ball, then the next step is to simply ignore the dog.
3. Introduce the second ball. Now is the time to bring out the second ball. Continue to ignore the dog and play happily with the second ball. It helps to exaggerate the amount of fun you are having with the ball. Eventually, your dog will drop the first ball and want to join in on the fun of this new ball.
4. Throw the second ball. Once you have your dog's attention, let it sniff the second ball and then throw it for the dog to chase.
5. Repeat. Repeat the same steps. Eventually, the dog will drop the first ball when it returns to you, in anticipation for the next ball. Once your dog knows how to properly retrieve, only one ball will be needed. Try introducing a Frisbee and other throw toys next.