The Total Dog Manual by David Meyer

Author:David Meyer
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Weldon Owen

144 TEACH FETCH AND DROP!

You may or may not have a dog who fetches (runs after a ball and brings it back to you) naturally. If you don’t, you can teach him. In return, you will have a great way to give your dog the maximum amount of exercise with minimal effort on your part. Most importantly, it’s a fun way to teach your dog the potentially lifesaving “drop it” command. But a word of caution: Once your dog learns this trick, be ready for endless repetitions, as he tirelessly returns and drops the prized object at your feet with a look that says “Again!”

STEP 1 For starters, carefully cut a tiny slit or hole in a hollow rubber ball. And make sure you don’t choose a ball that could be a choking hazard for your dog. Now put some treats inside the ball by tucking them into the hole, and show your dog where the treats are hidden. Get your dog excited about it, and feed him a tiny piece of the treats so he can taste how yummy they are.

STEP 2 Wave the ball around his snout and then throw it happily, encouraging him to “go get it” or “fetch.” If he retrieves the ball, even if he doesn’t bring it all the way back to you, praise him wildly for picking it up and for fetching at all. Run with your dog to get the ball and throw it again. He’ll start to understand the game and to enjoy it because of your engagement, and the thrill of chasing.

STEP 3 Over time, instead of retrieving the ball with him, you can start to clap and cheer for him to bring it back to you. Even if he only comes two steps closer, reward that! The behavior will progress over time if you reinforce each step of the way, and pretty soon he’ll be bringing the ball back to you. Now you can remove the treat from inside the ball and keep it in your hand, instead.

STEP 4 Throw the ball and give the command “fetch.” This time, offer him a really tasty treat when he brings the ball back to you. As he inevitably drops the ball to get the treat (even if it isn’t yet exactly at your feet), capture the action by saying “drop.” Some dogs will get this quickly, and some might take more time. Try to have a good time and be patient with your pup as he learns.

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