Training Your Puppy to Fetch

blue star Click here for dog training secrets and powerful insider information.


It is always fun to engage in a game of fetch with your dog, but what do you do when your puppy doesn't know how to fetch the ball? Or when your puppy will chase after it, but will not bring the ball back. Like anything, teaching your dog how to fetch is a process, but once it is completed you can enjoy hour's worth of entertainment with your beloved family friend.

To begin with, purchase some balls that will only be used for your dog. This will help to prevent them from being confused. Then, throw the ball a short distance away. If your puppy does not go after the ball, go after it yourself and pretend to be a puppy! You don't have to grab the ball in your mouth, but do grab it with your hand and have fun with it. Continue to do this every once in awhile for a few days and eventually your puppy will chase after the ball. The minute he does, give him some verbal praise by saying "good boy" in a high-pitched voice.

Next, it's time to work on having him bring the ball back to you. When he chases after the ball and starts to walk with it, give him praise. Clap your hands and call out "Good boy; come". Remember to use his name whenever you can so that he knows that you are talking to him. If he makes it all of the way to you, give him a treat. If he makes it half of the way, get the ball and throw it a shorter distance. Always give him a treat when he brings the ball back to you. You can also teach him the drop command by saying the word "drop," and by giving him a treat when he does so. Playing ball together with your dog can be great enjoyment for the entire family.