Fetch is a great way to bond with your dog, but it's more than a fun game. It's also a great way to provide exercise and teach your dog important lessons about catching, retrieving and releasing. If you can get the idea across using dog balls, they'll be much more ready to chase, retrieve and drop other objects.
Some dogs seem to understand the game instinctively. They'll trot off after the ball or toy, run it back to you, drop it at your feet and sit there, looking up at you expectantly, tail wagging enthusiastically. Most dogs, however, need to be taught how to play fetch with dog balls and other toys. These tips can help you train your dog to play fetch with you.
Pick the Right Toy
Dogs can be particular about the toys that they'll fetch. Some will only chase sticks. Others prefer tennis balls or squeaky toys. Vets recommend that you choose a ball or dog toy that's made especially for your dog, pointing out that many toys, such as Frisbees, are hard enough to damage a dog's teeth. Among the most popular dog balls on the market are the Orbee dog balls made by Planet Dog. These dog balls and other toys are made of a special material called Orbee-Tuff. The compound, created by Planet Dog chemists, is completely non-toxic, 100 percent recyclable, bouncy, chewy and very durable. To top it off, Orbee dog balls are pleasantly scented with mint to make them even more attractive to your pup.
Getting Started with Training
If you're working with a dog that doesn't chase after toys that you throw, you'll have to start slowly and work your way up to a full-fledged game of fetch. Start with a game of tug of war. After playing for a few minutes, snatch up the toy and toss it a few feet away. If your dog runs to it, immediately snatch it up and praise him enthusiastically for "fetching" it. Start another game of tug if he enjoys it, or reward him with a snack or enthusiastic petting and praise. Play tug for a few minutes, then throw it again, gradually increasing the distance that you throw the dog ball.
Once your dog gets the idea and starts running to pick up the toy, turn and run away from him when he starts back toward you with the toy. Call him and let him chase for a few moments before you let him catch up, then turn and engage in a game of tug or reward him with a treat for bringing the toy to you.
Special Tips and Tricks for Reluctant Retrievers
Many Orbee dog balls have a built-in pocket that you can stuff with your dog's favorite treats. Introduce the new ball to him without playing fetch, and let him worry it and figure out how to get at the treats. The next time you bring out the treat ball, don't fill it. Instead, let him sniff at it, and then toss it a few feet. When he chases after it, praise him enthusiastically and reward him with a treat.
Once your dog gets the idea, you'll be able to add variations on the game of fetch to make it even more fun and challenging. Planet Dog makes an entire line of dog balls and toys that you can use for variations of fetch and chase games.
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About the Author
Chris Robertson is a published author of Majon International. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2011 (Sat Apr 30 2011) Majon International. Majon International is one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing and internet advertising companies on the web. Visit their main business resource internet marketing web site at: http://www.majon.com
