How to Train Your Dog to Fetch
Playing fetch is an enjoyable activity that can be played with any dog. The game entails throwing a ball or another toy and having your dog chase after it, then return it to you. While some may assume that dogs instinctively know how to play fetch, the truth is that most dogs need to be taught how to do it, or at least certain aspects of it. The good news is that teaching your dog to fetch is not a challenging task.
Begin by Sitting.
Prior to proceeding with any other tasks, ensure that your dog comprehends the "sit" command well. Every game of fetch should commence with you instructing your dog to sit. Confirm that it remains seated and calm by your side before proceeding to the subsequent step. This ensures that once the dog comprehends the game's rules, it will refrain from jumping up to seize the ball before you have an opportunity to throw it.
Send the Dog Out
After successfully getting your dog to sit, throw the ball and command it to "fetch." Begin by tossing the ball a short distance. In most cases, dogs will naturally chase and retrieve the ball. If that's the case, you have completed this phase of training.
However, if your dog doesn't naturally understand fetching, you may need to focus on training it to play initially. You can begin by rewarding the dog with treats or praise for showing interest in the ball. Gradually progress to having the dog run after and pick up the ball.
Call the Dog Back
These two steps are crucial in the game of fetch and often where people encounter difficulties. If your dog doesn't come back and drop the ball, you're not really playing fetch but rather just chasing after the dog.
The best approach to ensure your dog returns to you with the ball is to establish a strong understanding of the "come" command before starting. Once your dog picks up the ball during fetch, immediately say "come" and encourage it to return to you by using a cheerful tone, patting your legs, and offering praise.
If your dog struggles with this step, it may be necessary to reduce the distance you throw the ball. In some cases, you might need to start with short throws just a few feet away from you and gradually increase the distance. It's important that your dog consistently brings the ball back to you before moving on to greater distances.
Utilize a Release Command
Getting a dog to return the ball to you once it has it in its mouth can be challenging. One helpful technique is to teach your dog the "drop it" or "release" command. Practice this command before playing fetch with your dog, and when it returns to you, give the command "drop it." If the dog releases the ball, praise it and throw the ball again as a reward.
If your dog refuses to release the ball, you need to make it worthwhile, and treats usually do the trick. Give the "drop it" command and show your dog the treats. It will have to let go of the ball to get the treats. Make sure you wait until you have the ball back in your possession before giving a treat. Then, reward your dog further by throwing the ball to continue the game. If your dog keeps getting too close to you, you can also teach it to back up.
Another option is to use two balls instead of treats. When your dog returns to you with the first ball, show it the other ball you have in your hand. Many dogs will drop the ball they have to go after the second ball. Once your dog drops the ball, throw the one in your hand for it to fetch. However, this approach doesn't always work. Some dogs refuse to let go of the ball they already have. In such cases, the treat method is probably the best choice.
Problems and Proofing Behavior
Please keep in mind, as you follow these steps, that your dog is likely to enjoy playing chase or keep away just as much as playing fetch. Don't get caught up in a game of chase! If your dog runs off with the ball, turn your back and start walking away. Most dogs will run towards you. If your dog refuses to bring the ball back, end the game.
For dogs that persist in running away with the ball, try practicing while your dog is on a leash. Throw the ball a short distance, give the command to come, and then stand there and wait. Use treats and praise to encourage your dog in the right direction.
Some dog trainers also use the method of hiding a treat inside the ball. To do this, make a small cut in the ball and insert a treat while your dog is watching. Your dog will know the treat is inside and be able to smell it, but most likely won't be able to get it out on its own. Instead, when the dog brings the ball back, you will have to retrieve the treat. After a few throws, your dog will understand that to get the treat, it needs to bring the ball back to you and drop it.
If your dog doesn't grasp the concept of fetch immediately, give it time. Be patient and consistent. If you practice a little bit every day, your dog will eventually understand. You may even find that your dog becomes a fetch enthusiast! Once you can successfully play the game in your backyard, you can take it to the park and test the behavior around distractions.