Can all dogs learn to play fetch?
Yes, all dogs should be able to learn how to fetch and retrieve, but some dogs are quicker on the uptake than others. Some dogs need more time to understand what you want, or to learn to enjoy the game. If you want to teach your dog to play fetch, give it enough time to learn how the game works.
It is never too late for a dog to learn how to play fetch, regardless of the age. A pup or young dog will probably get the hang of it more quickly. Pups can begin fetch training after just a few months. But senior dogs can learn the obedience game just as well.
You don’t need much to start fetch and retrieve training You need your dog, of course, an object that can be retrieved and something to reward your dog with. This may be a snack, such as the Yarrah Mini Snack or a clicker if you prefer not to use food as a reward. You could use an official dummy for your dog to fetch, but its favourite toy will do just fine. Tip: make sure the object is not used for anything else. Do not keep it in a spot that your dog is able to reach. You dog will associate the object with fetch as a result.
Below a step-by-step explanation of how to go about teaching your dog to fetch and retrieve. If you don’t want to do this by yourself, ask an obedience school or puppy trainer for help. Make sure your dog has mastered each step before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Fetch
Once your dog is focused on the object, you want it to grab it. As soon as your dog is about to bite into the object, give the ‘fetch’ command. The dog will learn to associate grabbing the object with this command. Reward your dog with your voice once it grabs the object. If you’re using a clicker, click as soon as the dog bites into the object. Tip: You can also practice by placing the object on the ground, to teach your dog the ‘fetch’ command with objects laying on the ground.
Tools you need to teach your puppy to retrieve
What you will need:
Let’s discuss each of these in more detail.