My dog fetches "backwards"!!!?

Question

I recently adoped a dog from a shelter. She was a stray, picked up by animal control and was in the shelter for almost a month before I adoped her. She's young- about a year old and at first she didn't play with toys. Now she does, but she fetches "backwards." If I toss a toy in the living room, she picks it up and carries it through the kitchen and leaves it by the back door. At the park, she will chase what I throw until it stops moving, then loose interest in it when it's still. I tried standing near the door, and praising her and taking the toy from her when she's bringing it that way anyway, and stepping further away from the door, but she keeps putting them down right by the door. Someone said not all breeds play fetch as well as others. I'm not sure what type of mix she is, but she has the appearances of german shepherd and rotweiller. Any further suggestions are welcome. I'd love to be able to throw the ball at the park for her. thanks

Answer 1

Some dogs don't Fetch.
They just don't like it.
Find something your dog likes, and don't force the issue.

The book "Dog Tricks for Dummies" has lots of ideas. In the back there is a whole list of activities and clubs to join with your dog.

Answer 2

Retrieving is an inherited instinct or learned behaviour.
Being a stray, with no retriever genes, she hasn't learned.
Start by playing "take & give" with a toy she likes.
Hand her the toy saying 'take it' then get her to give it back.
If she runs off with it you'll need a leash to restrain her.
Help her to realize the game is more fun if she gives it back.
Gradually increase the distance between you.
She's got the idea that this game is only for outside.

Answer 3

some dogs just don't fetch. Chasong things till they stop is prey drve, as opposed to ball drive...not that any of those drives really mean much...