Teach your dog the Rules of Fetch

Playing fetch with your dog can be a rewarding game for both human and dog, as long as the dog is playing by fair rules! There are three rules to teach your dog to have a fair game. This game will not make your dog aggressive, in fact, it will teach your dog three new skills!

Getting started: Have some food your dogs likes to reward your dog for the three behaviors. You can also use two toys if your dog is motivated by different toys. I suggest you practice each rule separately before putting it all together when you are initially teaching your dog this game.

Rule #1. "Take it"
This is a skill that tells your dog to put something in their mouth. You can practice this each day with treats until you dog understands this cue "take" means to put something in your mouth.

Rule #2. "Drop it"
This is a skill that tells your dog to open his mouth and spit out what is in there. Avoid taking items from your dog's mouth, especially a competitive dog as you can cause your dog to clamp down and not relinquish items. As you ask for a "drop" hold a treat to his nose. Reward quickly and repeat a few times each day so your dog understands that "drop" actually means something good is coming my way!

Rule #3. "Fetch"
This skill teaches your dog to go get something and bring it to you. This eliminates the need to say "come" after you toss the toy.

TIP: If your dog is inclined to run off with the toy, put them on a l0 or 15 foot leash and gently bring them into you, once they pick up the toy in their mouth. You can use a flex lead to guide your dog to bring the toy to you. Always pay your dog for bring the toy near you even if he does not put it in your hand. That is a different skill and will come later.