How to Train a Dog to Retrieve

Many people like to train their dog to do tricks. One of the most common tricks for Fido to learn is the retrieve an object, or "play fetch." Most dogs can learn this trick with a little effort on your part.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know your dog. Be sure he's comfortable playing with you. Since most dogs aim to please, if you make training seem like fun and games for the dog, he's going to be more receptive to learning new tricks from you.

2. Introduce your dog to a ball that comfortably fits in his mouth. Let him play with it for a while. Then ask him to give it to you. If he gives you the ball, reward the dog with a pat on the head or a "good dog" or whatever you plan to use for his reward.

3. Let him play with the ball a while longer, then ask for it again. He may not give it to you the first or second time. Just keep trying. Once he gets the initial reward, he realizes there's something in it for him to give it to you.

4. Practice giving the dog the ball and then asking for it back. After he masters this portion of retrieve, throw the ball a little way. Add the command "retrieve" or "fetch." Just be consistent with the command. Reward the dog when he returns the ball to you.

5. Throw the ball farther and farther. Reward the dog each time he completes the task correctly.

6. Toss other items for the dog to fetch as he masters returning the ball to you. Spend a little time every day working on this trick. It's fun for both you and the dog.

[allieandkathy]

on 11/15/2008 Oh, and she is basic obedience trained, she is a delightful little love bug. A 2 year old Golden retriever. She is a sweetheart. I would love it if she were more playful. I got her as a rescue, but my trainer said that she was probably ignored, and has an independent streak. She craves attention. she is kind of a little sneak for food. I have had her for two months and she is coming more out of her shell, but she still won't fetch or retrieve. I can't believe it!

[allieandkathy]

on 11/14/2008 Oh, and she is basic obedience trained, she is a delightful little love bug. A 2 year old Golden retriever. She is a sweetheart. I would love it if she were more playful. I got her as a rescue, but my trainer said that she was probably ignored, and has an independent streak. She craves attention. she is kind of a little sneak for food. I have had her for two months and she is coming more out of her shell, but she still won't fetch or retrieve. I can't believe it!

[allieandkathy]

on 11/14/2008 My dog doesn't like to play with things. She doesn't like to chew things. What do I do?