Do you want to be able to enjoy your dog more? Would you like your dog to exercise without you having to lose your breath? Do you want to be able to impress your friends and people by seeing how well your dog plays fetch? If you follow these 4 easy steps to train a dog to fetch, then you can be that proud owner.

Simple Step #1: Use Something Your Dog Already Likes

You could use his favorite bone, his squeaky toy, or a tennis ball. Just use something you already know your dog likes. If he doesn’t have a favorite toy, that’s fine. If you know your dog generally likes tennis balls, something like that will work too.

Simple Step #2 – 10 to 20 Foot Strap

The key is to use a leash that is between 10 and 20 feet long. This will prevent you from having to chase your dog and you will be able to maintain control over the training process.

Simple Step #3 – Keep All Eyes on You

You want to have your dog’s full attention before you start training. I definitely recommend treats. You want your dog to focus on you, the treats he has, and his toy.

Simple Step #4 – Don’t teach him to “seek” unless you teach him to “give”

Without any training, how many of you can throw a ball and have your dog fetch it? My dog ​​did that easily. The problem was that he brought it back. So teach your dog to fetch only if you teach him to give. Let me explain.

Many dogs will naturally “fetch” a ball or toy or just about anything that is thrown at them. That part is built into them. What you want to do is GUIDE that natural instinct to search for an object so that it also RETURNS that object. If he goes to fetch a ball and runs off with it or grabs it too hard when he brings it back, then you’re not really playing fetch.

It’s more like “Find It & Go” or “Get It & Tug-O-War”. Do you see my point? With that out of the way, follow simple step #4 below on how to train a dog to fetch.

At this point, you have your dog’s ball, his treats, his leash, and his full attention. Hold your dog on a tight leash with your full attention. Hang the ball on your face and throw it a few feet away. Be sure to keep this release in your dog’s line of sight. As you throw it, say the word “Search” in a firm voice and let it run after it.

When he has the ball in his mouth, gently pull him on the leash. When you can reach him, show him the treat and say “Go” and take the ball out of his mouth. Do not pull or tug on it. You just want to let him know that it’s okay to “Give” the ball and nothing more.

When you show him the treat, it will be easier for him to focus on it and loosen his grip on the ball. When you get it right, give him the treat and have him get it right. Give him lots of pats and pats and verbal praise.

Repeat this process while you have their full attention. When it seems that you are getting bored or not paying attention anymore, you can leave it for that training session. In about a week, your dog should have learned the game of “Fetch and Give.”