How to Teach a Dog to Catch a Flying Disc

Watching a dog streak across the ground, leap in the air and catch a flying disc is a beautiful sight. How do you teach a dog to do that? It takes time, patience and encouragement. But if you're willing to take the time, your dog could be leaping for the disc in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Food
• Tennis or racquet ball

1. Start small. Toss your dog pieces of food and instruct her to "catch." If she catches the piece of food, praise her.

2. Move on to a tennis ball or racquet ball once your dog has mastered catching food. Bounce the ball and give the "catch" command. Give lots of praise every time she catches the ball.

3. Familiarize your dog with the flying disc by using it as a food or water bowl. After she has gotten used to the disc start practicing with it instead of the ball.

4. Roll the flying disc on the ground and encourage your dog to chase it. She must also bring it back to you. If she doesn't, use a long leash and give a slight correction when she doesn't return.

5. Try tossing the flying disc a short distance and say "catch." Do this step only after your dog is proficient at catching the ball.

6. Teach your dog to jump by simply holding the flying disc above her head and saying "jump." When she does, let go of the disc when she takes it.

7. Throw the disc further and higher as your dog improves. She will love the chase and will get exercise as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Your dog's breed isn't important when trying to teach her to catch a flying disc. Some mixed breeds have been known to outperform pure bred dogs.
• Wait until your dog is at least one to two years old before teaching her to jump for the flying disc.
• Never throw the disc directly at your dog. If it hits her, she might develop a fear of the disc and derail your training.
• Never practice on hard or rocky surfaces as these are bad for your dog's joints and paws. Stick to grassy areas.
• Don't let your dog chew on the flying disc. Minor imperfections in the disc can cut your dog's mouth when she catches it.

Resources

• Buy a flying disc