Dog Training Help

Wouldn’t it be nice if you can have the attention of all the gorgeous bikini clad ladies in the beach because your dog retrieves the Frisbee every time you say the word “fetch”? Playing fetch with the dog would be lots of fun. Puppies though are not obtained from the breeder already trained to fetch. A retriever is a breed highly valued by hunters to get the game after the shot but the retrieving ability is not innate as these dogs have to undertake training before they can be useful hunter’s companions.

Fetch is a simple obedience command that can be easily learned by the dog. The dog will probably view the obedience lessons as game because these animals are very playful. The dog’s inherent eagerness to please can be used by a dog owner to train the pet to fetch . Using the dog’s favorite treats will make the training easier as dogs are food motivated.

Start the training by playing with the dog. Get the dog’s attention by playing with the toy that will be used in the training. Gain the interest of the dog by playing with the ball. Because dogs are very playful, they will try to get the ball before you can. Toss the ball a few feet away and give the fetch command. The dog will touch the ball with its mouth but it will not retrieve. Get ready to toss the ball again but don’t forget to praise the dog. Keep on training the dog until it has learned to obey the fetch command. Give a treat and praise the dog.

Dogs learn by association thus receiving the treat will be associated with the obeying the fetch command. Toss the ball a little farther and give the fetch command. Although the dog will run after the ball, it is possible that the dog will not return the toy to you. Do not give a treat. The dog must learn that if the ball is not returned, it will not be rewarded.

You can train a dog to fetch by using a toy filled with treats. Ensure that the treat cannot be easily removed from the toy. The purpose of using a baited toy will be lost if the dog can remove and eat the treat. The dog has to learn to return the baited toy to you so that you can remove the treat and give it to the dog.

Learn more tricks on how to teach a dog to fetch and dog first aid at Sarah’s Dogs.