Chasing something — and bringing it back — comes naturally to pups of some breeds (like Labs and golden retrievers); others need Fetch 101.
“Break it down into steps,” advises dog trainer Jeff Millman of Chicago, whose training videos can be seen online at
www.watchandtrain.com. And “train in short sessions,” he says. Use the same toy for fetching, and hide it when not training. If your dog seems confused or disinterested at any step, go back to an easier task and get him interested in the game. Always end on a successful step and start again later. Give outstanding treats.
Step 1: Hold the toy one inch from your dog’s nose. When he sniffs or touches it, say, “Yes!” and reward him with a treat. After he does this a few times, continue with verbal praise but withhold the treat.
Step 2: After he is reliably touching the toy with his nose, wait until he grabs it and say, “Yes!” and give a treat. Mouthing (grabbing it with his mouth but not necessarily holding it) is the new goal. You can say “Good” if he noses it, but say “Yes!” and give a treat each time he puts his mouth on it.
Step 3: Wiggle the toy above his head to get him interested in catching it. Say, “Yes!” and reward him each time he lifts his head and mouths it.
Step 4: Put the toy on the ground and urge him verbally (“Fetch!” or “Get it!”) to grab it. If he picks it up, say, “Yes!” and give a treat. If he doesn’t, wiggle the toy around to arouse his interest.
Step 5: Walk away from the toy and tell your dog to bring it to you. Hold your hand out and coach him verbally, saying, “Good boy, you’re doing great.” If he drops it, wait until he picks it up and immediately start praising him for figuring out what you want. When he walks toward you, say “Yes” and give him a treat.
Step 6: Finally, get your dog to drop the toy in your hand. When he’s holding it, say, “Drop” or “Give,” and put a treat under his nose. When he drops it, say, “Yes!” and give him the treat.
After your dog has mastered all six steps, play fetch. Throw the toy, add the cue “Fetch!” and have fun. Remember — if your dog knows how to fetch one object in one location, it doesn’t necessarily mean he will automatically do so in all situations with any object. Practice makes perfect for Fido, too.
