Are you aware that getting the attention of the sexy ladies on the beach would be a breeze if you have a dog that would play up and deftly catch the Frisbee every time you give the fetch command? A dog that can fetch will be a joy to play with. Puppies though are not obtained from the breeder already trained to fetch. Retrievers are renowned for being an outstanding breed used by hunters to get the game after the shot, but these dogs would still have to be trained to fetch.
The fetch command is one of the basic obedience lessons that can be learned easily by the dog. The dog will probably view the obedience lessons as game because these animals are very playful. An owner wanting to teach the pet to fetch can take advantage of the dog’s inherent eagerness to please. Dogs are food motivated thus favorite treats can be used as positive reinforcement to make the training easier.
Play with the dog first before starting the training. If you have decided to use a ball, play with the ball to get the attention of the dog. Gain the interest of the dog by playing with the ball. Because dogs are very playful, they will try to get the ball before you can. Toss the ball again and give the “Fetch” command and let the dog go after the ball this time. The dog will run after the ball, touch the ball with its mouth but don’t expect the dog to return the ball to you. Praise the dog, get the ball and return to your original position. This process must be repeated until the dog has learned to get and return the ball to you. Give a treat and praise the dog.
The reward will be associated by the dog to obeying the fetch command. To test the dog, give the fetch command and toss the ball farther. The dog may run after the ball but it may not pick the ball. Do not reward the dog with the treat. The dog must learn that if the ball is not returned, it will not be rewarded.
Another way of teaching the dog to fetch is to use a toy with an opening where a treat can be placed. Ensure that the treat cannot be easily removed from the toy. The purpose of using a baited toy will be lost if the dog can remove and eat the treat. The dog has to learn to return the baited toy to you so that you can remove the treat and give it to the dog.
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