In the video below, take a look at puppy owners trying to play fetch with their dogs. Many dogs will also lose interest fast, this way, because it is a game without much interaction from you, the handler. In most cases this will build the drive in your dog and then you can try tossing the object away. Then move on to the next step of throwing the object off a little ways. It’s better to do four five-minute training sessions throughout the day than one long 20-minute session. This method can be very productive and effective, especially with a puppy. In a perfect scenario, your dog will get to you; and you can then introduce the “drop” command and exchange the toys with him. You must first introduce him to a puppy-retrieving dummy, as his "prey." The reason that we play a tug game is to show your dog that a game is more rewarding than the toy itself. I began at 4 1/2 weeks using tiny hotdog treats. Great video – like all your videos! In the active category we have any type of toy that will continue moving after it hits the ground, a ball for example. This is just funny … but if you live with a dog who is not bringing the toy back, it can be extremely frustrating. That's pretty much the retrieve behavior built in 4 steps. Do stay AND grab the toy. Great reminder of teaching a puppy to retrieve. Hi, Stay with me: Train your puppy not to run away, when training or bathing time is near. Return from Retrieve to Training Your Dog and You. These are playing and socializing with other dogs and chasing or hunting. Unfortunately, that’s not always what puppies learn. If a dog is having trouble with this step, you may need to shorten the distance you throw the ball. Not to Bite: Train your puppy not to bite, because biting can hurt you and your family members. She has an awesome retrieve and recall. My puppy controls when we move ahead to the next level of difficulty in our training by the success he’s having with the current level. In the video above, I show you how I manipulate the reinforcement for a young puppy, so that what appears like a coincidence to him is actually a very fun strategic interactive game that I’ve planned. This is all a part of your dog’s life and is necessary for him to maintain a healthy balance. Then go and pick up the dummies while he watches. As well do not forget to repeat the retrieve game a few times in a row; this will reassure your puppy that you aren’t trying to steal the object away from him to keep for yourself. How does one teach a dog to enjoy play? The base of this method is to throw the ball (or other object) to your dog, and once he is on his way back to you, wait until he is rather close, then introduce another ball. To me, this presupposes some background training. LOL). Loved the video. I have a male four month English Cream Golden Retriever who is very chill and relaxed. Some dogs are easy to motivate and they are just “crazy” about the game, you can throw anything and they will fly to get it. Thanks for suggestions!! Later you can add distractions and distance. We adopted a 3 year old Crested who really doesn’t play. Try another toy or treat to see what gives them that extra spark. Training any dog requires a lot of work, but training a gundog is another skill altogether.. As well as the usual sit, heel, stay and other general commands, and training your dog to become comfortable with a dog lead, most gun dog owners will want their dog to be able to recall and retrieve their game.. I will be doing this tonight. But there are other dogs that need more motivation to build the necessary drive level for them to participate fully in the game. 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