How to Teach your dog to play Onesie Twosie

Onsie Twosie is a game that I play with my dog. She loves the ball and the game came about when I couldn't get her to give me back the ball. She would just stand there and stare at me and chew on the ball like it was a piece of gum and if I tried to get the ball she would run away. So I came up with a solution that keeps her moving and gives me a chance to play, too.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two bouncy balls
• Ball Thrower (optional)

1. 
    
   Chuckit holder

   You need two balls that will bounce on any surface. A rubber ball works well and a tennis ball. I like using the plastic stick called "Chuckit" because it allows me to pick up the ball with out getting doggie slobber all over me, but you don't have to use it, as you can throw the balls with bare hands.

2. 
    
   Tara waiting for ball to be bounced

   Take one ball and throw it hard towards the ground so that it rebounds back up into the air. You want the ball to rebound high up so that the dog has time to get under the ball and catch it. Your dog may not understand that s/he is suppose to catch it as it is in the air and may just wait for it to land.

3. 
    
   Tara catching the ball

   When your dog retrieves the ball, if your dog is like mine, they will not drop it, so instead of trying to negotiate or get them to drop it you instead you show them you have another ball and bounce the second ball, like you did the first.

4. 
    
   Tara coming down from catch

   Your dog will drop the ball that they have, and go after the second ball. When they drop the ball, then you can pick that one up. Once your dog catches the ball, show them you have a ball in your hand, again. Bounce that ball and they will drop the one they have, to go after that one. Keep repeating the process.
   
   Once they start to catch on, they will catch the ball and bring it towards you waiting for the next ball. This is a great exercise that will keep your dog and you both moving.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog keeps one ball in his mouth and does not go after the second, s/he may be telling you they need a break.