How to Train a Beagle Puppy to Fetch a Squeaky Toy

Beagles are intelligent dogs who have a need to understand the outcome of whatever task they are performing. Most beagles will not willingly perform a task unless they know there is a hefty reward afterward. Teaching a beagle puppy to fetch a squeaky toy is a matter of cause and effect--he brings you the toy and receives a reward in return. The dog will make the connection that when he fetches the squeaky toy, good things will happen. Associating action with effect can take multiple attempts, but is a good motivator to get your beagle playing and running.

Things You'll Need

• Squeaky toy
• Leash
• Treats

Instructions

1. Arouse your dog's interest in the squeaky toy. Squeeze the toy and make a fuss over it. Beagles are curious, and if their owner thinks the toy is a big deal, it is likely that they will as well.

2. Throw the squeaky toy a short distance. If your puppy is sufficiently interested, he will go over to the toy and promptly begin chewing on it or playing with it. A more apprehensive or skeptical dog will merely sniff and nose at the toy.

3. Reward your dog for showing interest in the toy with verbal praise.

4. Proceed to tell your dog to "Bring it back". If he does, reward him with a treat. If he does not, take the toy and repeat the process of throwing the toy and commanding him to bring it back until he does.

5. Order your dog to "release" the toy when she successfully brings it to you. When she does drop the toy, reward her with a small food treat. Most dogs will consider this a fair barter.

6. Repeat the process of throwing the ball, telling your beagle puppy to return it and drop it at your feet. Eliminate the use of food treats by replacing them with verbal treats and physical affections.

7. Continue working with your beagle puppy until the routine of fetch is established without the need for excessive praise or rewards.

8. Attach your dog to a leash and run with him to the toy if he is apprehensive about leaving your side or wholly disinterested. This will show him that going to get the toy is normal and natural, and there should be nothing to fear. Work your way towards eliminating his fear and apprenhsion off-leash games of fetch by repeating this with and without the leash.

Tips & Warnings

• Some beagle puppies are harder to train than others. A dog's personality plays a large factor in their willingness to learn to play fetch. Don't get discouraged. Continue working on teaching her to fetch in short, consistent, upbeat training sessions.

• Use a squeaky toy that your dog has a particular affinity for. If your dog already regards a certain squeak toy as a prized possession, he is more likely to fetch and return the object. In this instance, the "return" portion of fetch will be more of a challenge.

• Never physically reprimand your dog for failing to return the toy. This will only associate the game of fetch with negative consequences. If struck for failing to return the toy, your beagle puppy will only learn that returning the toy leads to pain, and will be more loath to do so.

References

• "The Dog Breed Bible: Descriptions and Photos of Every Breed Recognized by the AKC"; D. Caroline Cole PhD; 2007
• " The Dog's Mind: Understanding Your Dog's Behavior"; Bruce Fogle, Anne B. Wilson; 1992
• "Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning"; Stephen R. Lindsay; 2000