How To Teach A Dog To Fetch

To strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner, teach a dog how to fetch -- it is enjoyable. Start with playing games or tricks and be sure it can acknowledge and obey simple commands like sit, stay, come and down as the techniques utilize basic obedience training methods. If the dog has undergone many training sessions, it knows that it has to stay focused during practice.

Before beginning "fetch training"have the dog checked by the vet prior to starting any physical coaching. A fairly easy game can result in undesirable health consequences.

The dog must be praised and rewarded when it responds to commands to ensure success in teaching a dog to fetch. A dog loves praises since it likes to please its master and whilst it appreciates pats on its head, giving it delicious food treats is more appealing. Dog treats are effective reinforcement during tricks training.

Most dogs love performing just to have fun and thrills. Teaching a dog to fetch or run after a thrown object is fairly easy because, instinctively, dogs chase anything that runs away from it. The challenging part is how to make the dog return with the object it fetched.

How to effectively teach a dog to fetch:

* Use a toy that it loves most. Give the "sit" command then throw the toy a short distance away

* Give the "fetch" command to let it grab the toy. Once the toy is in its mouth, summon it and give the "release" command. After retrieving the toy, praise the dog and give it a treat.

Recovering a tossed object at the dog's will is the objective of fetch training. It is not a tug-of-war game with the dog. Retriever breeds learn this trick quickly and enjoy the play for hours. On the other hand, a terrier may not be so keen on giving back its treasured toy, hence the need to reward it with tasty treats and lots of praises.

Constant and enjoyable practice is necessary. When the dog gets the whole idea of how to play the game, it is now ready to fetch the object that is thrown farther away.

More suggestions:

* Give commands with a cheerful voice

* Each fetch training session must last for 5-10 minutes only. When frustrated or tired, end the session and repeat later

Dogs that have dominance issues will be harder to train. Some dogs are smart, but can be quite stubborn and when you require them to do something, they might not do it as quickly as other dogs would. It is a good idea to take some time off from work or from your hectic schedule to keep an eye on your dog when toilet training. Your commitment to this task will prove successful for you.