Playing fetch with your dog is a great way to bond, provide exercise, and nurture your dog's natural instincts. But, the truth is, not all dogs instinctively know how to play fetch, and some may need a little extra guidance to get the hang of it.
This guide, featuring expert advice from certified trainers Alisa Healy and Melody Lee, from Gentle Beast, will help you teach your dog to love and master the game of fetch.
Plus, check out the video tutorial, at the bottom of this blog, that walks you through the steps.
Step 1: Choose the Right Toy
The first step in teaching your dog to play fetch is selecting a toy that they find irresistible. According to Alisa Healy, KPA-CTP, “start with two identical versions of a toy that your dog loves. Dogs have different toy preferences, so consider the size, texture, and material of the toys to make fetch fun and enticing.”
Earth Rated's Fetch Toy is perfect for this, designed with a lightweight yet durable material that’s easy for your dog to carry. The textured surface makes it satisfying to chew, and its bright color ensures it’s easy to spot during outdoor play. You can also use the Earth Rated Fly Toy, which is designed to soar through the air, adding an extra challenge for dogs who love a good chase.
Step 2: Start with Short Tosses
Begin by tossing the toy a short distance. Some dogs naturally chase after a ball or toy, but if your dog seems puzzled, Melody Lee, CPDT-KA, suggests, "squeak the toy and roll or bounce the ball—get as amped about the game as you want them to be! Your dog feeds off your energy, and your excitement sparks their curiosity and enthusiasm."
For dogs new to fetch, Alisa recommends tossing the toy toward a wall or corner. This technique increases the likelihood that your dog will return to you since they have less room to run off. “Begin with short tosses, and increase the distance as your pup catches onto the game,” she advises.
Step 3: Use the Two-Toy Method
To prevent your dog from turning fetch into a game of keep-away, the two-toy method is a lifesaver. Alisa explains, "Playing with two toys allows you to use one to encourage your dog to return to you and drop the toy from their mouth. Many dogs will switch into keep-away mode if the human tries to grab the toy or pry it from their mouth."
With two identical toys—like two Earth Rated Fetch Toys—you can throw one while holding the other. When your dog picks up the first toy, show them the second one to entice them to return. This keeps the game cooperative and reinforces the fetch pattern.
Step 4: Gradually Increase Distance and Difficulty
As your dog becomes more confident with the game, you can gradually increase the distance of your throws. The Earth Rated Fly Toy, designed to cover more ground with its aerodynamic design, is perfect for this stage. It adds an extra element of fun as your dog learns to track and catch the toy mid-air.
Step 5: Add in Some Tricks and Basic Commands
Fetch can also be a great opportunity to practice basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "drop it." Alisa suggests adding tricks or skills between throws to give your dog’s brain a workout. This not only keeps your dog engaged but also reinforces obedience training in a fun, interactive way.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
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The Keep-Away Game: If your dog refuses to bring the toy back, don't chase them. Melody warns, "Not unless you want your dog to become a champion in their new favorite game—Keep-Away." Instead, use the two-toy method or another high-value treat to encourage them to return.
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Lack of Interest: If your dog seems uninterested in fetching, try different toys or experiment with a variety of textures and materials. Every dog has unique preferences, so finding the right toy can make all the difference.
Do's and Don'ts of Fetch
Do's:
- Keep sessions short and fun. A tired or bored dog is less likely to stick with it.
- Monitor your dog's behavior during fetch to ensure they’re not getting too amped up or physically overexerted.
- Mix in some basic commands to keep your dog mentally engaged.
Don'ts:
- Avoid grabbing the toy from your dog’s mouth. This can make them wary of returning to you.
- Don’t rely solely on fetch for exercise. Dogs also need time to move naturally and explore their environment.
Why Earth Rated Toys Are Perfect for Fetch
Earth Rated's Fetch Toy and Fly Toy are both designed with your dog's enjoyment in mind. The Fetch Toy is durable yet gentle on teeth, perfect for repetitive throws. The Fly Toy, with its sleek design, has a rolled edge which is soft and easy to pick up. And, both toys float in water!
Whether your dog is a seasoned fetch enthusiast or just learning the ropes, these toys will elevate their playtime and make fetch a game they’ll want to play again and again.
Watch the Video Tutorial
For a visual guide on teaching your dog to play fetch, check out our step-by-step video tutorial below. This video walks you through each stage of the training process, ensuring you and your dog can enjoy the game to the fullest.
With the right approach and a little patience, fetch can become one of your dog's favorite activities. And with Earth Rated toys, it’s a game you can both look forward to time and time again. Happy fetching!
About Earth Rated
From dog poop bags, to grooming products, to toys, Earth Rated creates thoughtfully designed products for people who love dogs. As a B Corp-certified company focused on innovation and responsibility, Earth Rated's mission is to make everyday moments for people and their dogs simpler and better. Earth Rated products are used by over 4.5 million people daily and can be found in over 25,000 stores in 40+ countries.
About Gentle Beast
Gentle Beast is a certified puppy trainer, in your pocket. With tens of thousands of personalized training paths, access to the country's best certified trainers and canine health professionals, Gentle Beast trains you to unleash the good in your dog. Gentle Beast takes the best of working with an in-person certified trainer, and makes it more accessible, affordable, and engaging. They've re-imagined the puppy training experience from the ground up. Interested in getting a free month? Redeem here!
