My dog is incapable of playing fetch. What method did you use to teach your dog to fetch?

Seeking help
1

He doesn’t always pursue the ball. Occasionally, he chases after the ball but doesn’t actually catch it; instead, he either loiters near it for a while or returns to me empty-handed. On other occasions, he genuinely pursues it, retrieves it, and declines to give it to me. Have you ever encountered this? Is there anyone who can offer advice?

2

A few things can be beneficial:

  • For starters, keep the distance shorter—five meters is sufficient.

  • Have two of the same object; toss the other one when the dog gives you one.

  • Before integrating “give that to me” into retrieving, train it.

  • In order to get what you want from a timid dog, give it encouragement both verbally and through body language.

  • Reward the dog whenever it brings you the object.

3

Thank you so much for these tips!

4

I’ve done it with my dog, but the problem is that he soon figures out that I have two. I’ll toss one, and he’ll sprint a little before stopping to stare at me while he waits for the next one.

5

If your dog anticipates the second item before returning the first, wait patiently for them to bring it back. Kneel down, encourage them, and give the reward command when they do. The second item is the real reward, so only give the reward command after they’ve returned the first item.

6

Use two identical balls. Throw one low to the ground, past your dog. Wait for your dog to pick it up, then praise them and walk away. This will encourage them to follow you.

When your dog is close, turn around and show them the second ball. Wave it around until they drop the first ball, then throw the second one. Try to throw the second ball as soon as your dog drops the first to reinforce the connection.

You can shake the second ball and say, ‘Drop it’ to encourage them to release the first ball. Then, throw the second ball.

7

What do we do when he doesn’t chase after the ball at all? That’s our biggest challenge.

8

Try finding a toy that really excites your dog. Start with a tug toy and get them pumped up about it. Once they let go, throw it a short distance. When they grab it, run a short distance in the opposite direction. If they follow you with the toy, reward them with more tugging and praise.

9

My brother went through the same thing. While my parents can laugh about it now, it really stressed them out at the time. Thankfully :slightly_smiling_face:, he eventually outgrew it.