How to play fetch ?
Dogs are most happy when they live goal-directed lives. This means they have objectives assigned to them by an Executive Decision-maker. Doing so helps to boost their sense of connectivity to the family and enhances their self-esteem. Without these properties, dogs become prone to anxiety disorders.
Fetch can be an outstanding game for many dogs; especially ones with active minds. It is a goal-directed activity that can help to channel a dog’s focus and reduce, random chaotic thoughts. As you probably know, fetch is an activity that requires a dog to run, retrieve an object, and bring it to you.
Fetch is best when played with five primary rules. These five rules will make sure you retain the role of Executive Decision-maker while having fun and mentally challenging your dog.
The five rules of fetch:
1. Heel :
This one is the most important — and the most overlooked. All dogs should stay with their handlers until given permission to leave. They should not simply run off to chase a ball when it is thrown. Use the concept of “stay” to get your dog to hold position until released. Use a leash if necessary to prevent your dog from running off prematurely.
This is potentially life-saving advice. Every year I hear of several clients’ dogs who suddenly bolted away to chase something only to be hit and killed by a car.
Once the ball is thrown, the leash can be dropped and the dog can drag it along. Do this until the concept of “stay” is well ingrained and the leash is no longer needed.
2. Okay :
This is the fun part. “Okay” is the moment you give the dog permission to run off and chase the ball. But no cheating! Be sure that your dog waits until the exact moment you give permission.
3. Come here :
Obviously this one is super important. If your dog won’t return with the ball, then the game comes to a screeching halt. Young, adolescent dogs, in particular, love to try and reverse the game. They sometimes refuse to come back and instead want you to chase them. They are, in essence, trying to train you to fetch the ball. Avoid this game. Instead, use a long (15ft) leash next time to reel in your dog. Also, start the game at short distances, and build to longer over time.
4. Drop it :
Once the dog returns with the ball, they should drop it on command. This can be a challenge as some dogs are so passionate they will refuse to let go. This is another great time to utilize a leash. Simply pick up the leash, put a little firm pressure upwards and hold until the dog drops the ball.
Be careful not put too much tension in the leash. This technique is not a choke hold. Only a mild restraint. The dog’s front legs should never leave the ground.
Hold tension until the ball falls out. Say nothing as you utilize this technique. Also, avoid moving around as you hold the leash. Anchor yourself and make things really boring for a moment. When the ball falls out, release the tension, and the excitement will soon begin again!
5. Leave it :
This is another commonly overlooked rule. Dogs love to try and steal the ball again just after they’ve dropped it. Be ready with your leash again to give a correction upwards if they try to grab the ball without permission. Stand over the ball to help take possession of it. If you want to know more click here play fetch.
