How do I teach my dog to fetch?

Question

I never got my Dalmation to learn to fetch. Of course, I was in fourth grade when we got him, but that's besides the point.

When he was younger, I could get him to occasionally chase something I threw, but then it was his, and he would not actually return it to me to throw again. = \

Answer 1

Use 2 balls. Throw one and hide the other behind your back. When your dog gets close with the first ball, whip out the one behind your back.

Most dogs will then drop the first and chase after the second. You MUST wait until your dog drops the first one before throwing the second . Eventually the dog will come and drop it, anticipating the second ball.

Eventually you can go to using one ball and he will soon be enthusiastic about retrieving it..

Answer 2

I agree with Irish Prince. My puppy will be 11 weeks tomorrow and has been fetching now for almost 3 weeks. His favorite treat is cheese ( just regular cheese that I roll into tiny bite size balls for him ) I show him the cheese then the ball. I then throw the ball and say "get it" then he'll get the ball. As he is running back to me I pat the floor with my hand and say "here" and he'll bring it to the spot I am asking him to bring it to. As soon as he drops the ball he gets his cheese. It takes a few times for him to realize that if he gives you the ball, Frisbee, etc. then he'll get the reward but once they realize it's "an even exchange" you'll both have loads of fun.

Answer 3

Listen to Chetco. That is the easiest way. Eventually the dog will be more willing and excited to bring it to you to so that he can chase it again and again. The more fun you make it the more he will want to do it.

Answer 4

You could also use treats to reward your dog when they bring the toy back to you.

Answer 5

one way that also works... use hot dogs, toss a piece and he'll get it, then use hot dog juice on a ball, he'll learn to get it and come back...