Playing with you should be gratifying, not frustrating. Some dogs don't return the ball because they perceive having to give it back as a punishment. Generally speaking, there are three ways to do this, depending upon what motivates your pup: you can offer him affection, treats, or play for retrieving the chosen object.Whichever motivator you use, the process is basically the same. Before I moved in my boyfriend's apartment, his ex was living there and Thor would always play with his other toy, Squirtle; my boyfriend also got him this one. On the other hand, some dogs are toy-oriented and couldn't care less about treats if toys are present. To understand why a dog doesn’t like dog toys it helps to know more details about our beloved pets. Save 10% on HempMy Pet Organic CBD Oil & Treats when you enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout. My dog hates to exercise. After all, if you bite one of your litter mates too hard he won't play with you anymore. My dog is 10 months. It’s good to reward them once in a while to keep the game exciting. She was 20 months when she came to live with me. Ever since I gave my dog parts of my sandwich he's always just wanted food and when I want to play … What I Learned From My Less-Clever Dog, How To Get Through The Bitey Puppy Stage With All 10 Fingers, Should Your Next Dog Be A Girl Or A Boy? Please tell me whether I should get rid of it and why he won't play with it. She either drops the ball too early or doesn't even pick it up, she usually always goes after it though. Teaching your dog to play fetch or put their toys away will require treats at first, but the act of playing with the toy may become reinforcing so that you will not always need treats. Give the treat when Fido releases the toy. However, there’s hope for … When your dog returns with the toy, place your hand on one end of the toy and pull a treat out of your back pocket with the other, while holding the treat about 6 inches in front of your dog. What has helped maintain her enthusiasm in our game is using a chuck-it (it seems to just raise the ante) and using different balls. My dog does not play fetch. My puppy (6 months old) won't fetch, either. He won’t let my other two Saints play ... and want a dog that will play fetch with them and be fun. In fact, she didn’t play with any of her toys the first couple of months I had her. That doesn’t mean they won’t and it certainly doesn’t mean they can’t. The Labrador part might be right, but forget the retriever! This way, your dog gradually learns that going out is fun and staying indoors is boring. These dogs are not such a problem and will usually retrieve when they realise that no-one is going to chase them anymore. He's eating fine and sleeping well. That's why it is a good idea to start teaching the rules of fetch when your dog is a puppy. As puppies age and grow, they don't lose their playful spirit. And while some people will probably argue this point, you cannot reason with a dog. She writes for various health and fitness publications while working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing. The current favorite is a squeeky rubber one. As for size, make sure that the toy cannot fit entirely in your dog’s mouth, as some dogs can swallow a toy whole. Some dogs have no interest in playing fetch with their person, and even though it’s far from a make-or-break problem, a fetch-resistant dog can be a bummer. Days when they will test you and everything you are asking them to do. Give a command for fetch, such as “get it” and throw the toy. A dog that shows an already established behavior is usually different than those that have never been taught at all. Teaching your dog to play fetch or put their toys away will require treats at first, but the act of playing with the toy may become reinforcing so that you will not always need treats. Dogs are neophiles; they love new things and experiences.Novelty is stimulating and dogs often get bored with the same familiar 5 block walk, backyard jaunt, same dog friends, people/family, and same dog toys on a daily basis. My Dog Won’t Fetch – What To Do When Your Lab Won’t Bring The Ball Back. Some dogs are so treat-oriented that they'll completely forget about the game of fetch if they think a treat is waiting in your back pocket. Take away the toys and only bring out one toy or one ball at a time. I think she likes the competition. When playing tug, always let your dog win. “I’ll do it!” After all, dogs play together until they are gray in the face. Custom paintings by Matilda are available for sale. ... How To Get A Dog To Play Fetch. If your dog is of the “sit and stare” variety, your first goal is to teach him to chase after the object you want him to fetch. Instead of ceasing training when you run out of treats or when your dog is full, you can train for much longer when you use toys as a reward. A Game of Keep Away. The only problem is we cannot get her to play. If either of these sounds like Fido, use a second toy instead of the treat for both “give and take” and fetch. Whether it’s introducing the parts of the game in segments or trying a new version of the game, there’s a way to go from “My dog won’t fetch” to “My dog loves fetch.” Breaking Down Fetch Refusal. So for the past couple days Ive been teaching my 2 year old Parson Russell Terrier fetch, She goes after the ball but only about 10% of the time she returns it to me. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Is My Dog Dumb? Thiѕ littlе boy wantеd to play fetch, but thе dog juѕt waѕn’t intеrеѕtеd, not now, at lеaѕt. She has never wanted to play fetch. If your dog shows guarding behavior or a ball or stick, be wary. Most pet dogs don’t have many opportunities to chase, though they still have a penchant for chasing fast-moving objects. You may treat your dog after every successful retrieval at first, and then phase out the treats by rewarding every other retrieve, then fewer and fewer successes. Start your game of fetch with a friendly warm-up of “give and take," so your dog can practice the commands with all the distractions nature has to offer. To make it even more enticing, toss the toy low to the floor so it just whizzes past your dog’s nose. Final thoughts on my retriever won’t retrieve anymore. What You Should Know, Why Hide And Seek Will Blow Your Dog's Mind. I was distraught. Put her on a long line to teach her to play fetch is more taxing than fun for us and her. Dogs also seem more interest in toys that they can break. Playing fetch is a great way to have fun with your dog and exercise him at the same time. All dogs need exercise, and a chance to bond with their owner. Put her on a long line to teach her to play fetch is more taxing than fun for us and her. What should I do? Many will pick up the ball and some will even bring the ball part or most of the way back to the person throwing the ball. ADVERTISEMENT Many dogs are not naturally interested in retrieving toys, but you may be able to teach them to take an interest in toys . Maybe he’s just a human toddler who hates when other people play with his toys and only likes them when they’re brand new! Others like it because it can tire the dog out without costing you too much energy. I see you put sweaters on your dogs, I have 2 chihuahuas and they have always worn sweaters as well. People often assume that owning a dog who is obsessed with balls may make training fetch as easy as pie, but it's often the opposite.Dogs who dream about balls all day, are more likely to want to play "keep away" rather than fetch.Keep away is a game dogs play where they grab an item and try to entice people or other dogs to chase them to get the item from them. Your dog will soon lose interest, if he hasn’t already. Play the Recorder. Save money while giving your dog the very best in food, accessories, toys, and supplies! I wanted to ask you, I am having a VERY difficult time potty training my newest edition to the family (2 month old female chihuahua pup) & it doesn’t make it any easier that my adult chihuahua (5 years old) still likes to go potty inside the house ;( Should I put a sweater on the puppy when I take her outside? What, to me, is the missing piece is the dog doesn't understand the hold. Covering your dog's eyes with your free hand after saying “drop it” is enough for some dogs to let go. It can also help to play “monkey in the middle” with a family member. Fido doesn't know the rules of fetch, so teaching him the rules is the only way to break the cycle so you and your dog can truly enjoy the game. She was found as a stray and our best guess is that she is a German Shepherd-Labrador mix. People often assume that owning a dog who is obsessed with balls may make training fetch as easy as pie, but it's often the opposite.Dogs who dream about balls all day, are more likely to want to play "keep away" rather than fetch.Keep away is a game dogs play where they grab an item and try to entice people or other dogs to chase them to get the item from them. As your dog begins mouthing the toy with you holding the other end, pull a treat out of your back pocket with your opposite hand and say “give it” and show your dog the treat. You can also toss the toy and run to it, making a big show of getting to it first. If your dog ignores you when she gets the toy, try running away from her after she’s picked it up. Playing fetch is something that most dogs enjoy, and for very active and lively breeds like the Springer spaniel, a game of fetch can help them to get the additional exercise that they need and allow them to run around freely, without having to match them pace for pace!. Some dogs tend to be very playful as puppies, but that doesn’t mean that they will stay as playful when they become adults and especially seniors. A Game of Keep Away. He used to love chasing his tennis ball but now he won't go chase it after a few throws. Like the collies, she did not know how to play. Dog Toy Caveats. Now she's out of the picture and he never plays with that toy anymore. A dog that shows an already established behavior is usually different than those that have never been taught at all. This game can furnish hours of entertainment and fun for you and your dog. Why Does My Dog Refuse to Let Go of the Toy That He Fetches? I dont play anymore either, we sleep alot, we grow old together. Contact me to find out how I can help you reach pet owners on the web! You’ve probably heard the expression, Life Is Short: Play With A Dog. Give them a few minutes to play with it before taking it back. Hold the toy and say “take it” as you wiggle the toy in front of your dog. Naturally, they are more expensive, but worth the cost if you want a high-value toy that can easily grab your dog’s attention. But while some dogs love to play fetch, and in fact playing fetch is the ideal dog game in many people's minds, some dogs will go after a thrown toy but won't bring it back, while others still won't give a second look at a ball or stick after it leaves your hand. “My dog is broken,” I’d complain to my friends. There will be days when they are stubborn. He has never liked to play with toys! If you find yourself in that situation, there are many reasons why a dog may not play with you or his toys. Your dog may also seem to have less interest in playing with toys over time. Sometimes, though, this urge to chase doesn’t seem to come naturally. Help, my retriever won’t fetch anymore! I think it can help to launder them too, because they may actually get too yucky for the dog to want to hold them in their mouth. The point is that your dog probably won’t instinctively run after a toy or ball and bring it back like the dogs in the movies. Just because a dog loves a toy doesn’t mean it is safe or healthy for your dog to play with. They will harbor bacteria, sometimes to a point at which your dog will no longer want to play with them. I think she likes the competition. My dog doesn't want to play fetch with me anymore. 3. Required fields are marked *. If you have never done this as a child, you probably didn’t grow up with two older brothers. I’m a lifelong dog owner — currently have 2 mixed breed Golden Aussies that we found abandoned on … M any owners come across a specific problem – their dogs won’t play with them. Others like it because it can tire the dog out without costing you too much energy. If so, talk to your vet, make sure the dog is not sick, and then put the dog on a diet (get the vet's advice on this). You can hand-wash toys if you are not sure if they will survive the washer, and air-dry, though air-drying seems to leave the furry fabric flat. After a few passes, your dog will probably run between you and the other participant, chasing the toy as you pass it back and forth. It’s winter time and very cold outside so I don’t blame them for not wanting to go outside in the freezing weather just to do their business.. any tips or suggestions? Melissa McNamara is a certified personal trainer who holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and communication studies from the University of Iowa. Fido doesn't know the rules of fetch, so teaching him the rules is the only way to break the cycle so you and your dog can truly enjoy the game. This is when I hear things like, “my dog won’t play fetch anymore” or “my dog won’t play with me anymore” or “my dog has become possessive of his toys and attacks other dogs when they get close to them.” Reboot your dog’s toy drive. If you’re lucky, your dog plays fetch naturally, but few dogs intrinsically understand the concept of retrieving. We must always remember that dogs are dogs. It’s not good for long-term use because it has been shown to cause obsessive-compulsive behaviors – your dog may begin to chase anything that resembles a laser light, even a glint of light reflected off a metal object. Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment. Or rather, does not play with humans. Almost any dog can be taught to fetch and just about every dog will quickly learn to love it. The best we get from him is that he will pick up the toy we throw, but just run around like a crazy-person and eventually drop it when he loses grip. If Fido refuses to let go of the toy no matter what you do, ignore him and walk away. Labrador Retriever you say? Playing fetch is a great way to have fun with your dog and exercise him at the same time. You should teach your dog to drop, however, and don’t play into the chase game. My dog is 10 months. Then walk him more, so he starts to get more muscle tone and more energy. My 8 yr old dog (female labradoodle/golden doodle cross) does not play at all. You can even put them in the dryer. Another reason your dog won’t return the ball is because he or she is possessive. Toss a toy around, throw it, and lunge after it as though it’s the best thing ever. But, don't let that discourage you - adult dogs can learn to play fetch, too! If you're using toys, do not use a toy that's regularly used for tug-of-war, since this can confuse the dog. Fetch turns into a nuisance when Fido confuses the activity for a game of tug-of-war. Keep the game moving to keep your dog happy. To make your dog’s toys more interesting, you have to make them interesting. If you’ve ever said, “My dog won’t play fetch,” what you probably mean is that your dog won’t chase after or pick up toys. But what thе boy doеѕ nеxt? The easiest way to do this is to get on the floor and act like a dog. Some dog breeds are literally born to retrieve, so making a … Lindsay Pevny/Little Dog Tips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Well, I’ve tried. When playing “monkey in the middle,” let your dog have the toy from time to time. We thought we could chase her and let her get some exercise but we now know this is not good because she will not bring us anything. Use these tips to help your dog get excited about toys again. Another way is to grab both ends of the toy with each hand while standing in front of your dog and walk slowly towards your dog until he lets go of the toy. Sometimes dogs aren’t lazy: It’s us pet parents who aren’t engaging our dogs and motivating them to do things, have fun, and enjoy their time on earth. Dog won't play fetch anymore! I, Lindsay Pevny, am not a veterinary professional, behaviorist or trainer, nor are any guest authors unless otherwise stated. He won't play anymore. Stock your dog’s toy box with toys of different types, sizes and textures. Take him swimming, which is a great activity for older dogs. If your dog chases you, run around with a toy, and wave it in front of their face when they catch up to you. ANSWER: If you want your dog to play fetch — rather than chase — ignore her when she runs away and reward her only when she brings the ball to you. 29. Don't talk to him, don't look at him, just completely ignore him until he drops the toy. What has helped maintain her enthusiasm in our game is using a chuck-it (it seems to just raise the ante) and using different balls. Of course, always praise your dog, even when you’re not using treats. I've used the kikopup method, and others I've found in this sub. My blog posts are based on my experiences with Matilda and Cow, my research, anecdotes from friends and other dog owners on the web, and, as cited, opinions from experts that I’ve interviewed or quoted. The dog might walk backwards for a while as you walk towards him, but sooner or later, he'll drop the toy. Say “get it” and have your dog take off after the toy. It is really important to wash you dog’s toys once it’s dirty. Copyright 2021 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Playing fetch is a great way to exercise your dog and strengthen your bond with him at the same time. Image source: pexelsWhether it's a ball, a favorite plush toy, or just an old stick you found in the backyard, dogs just love to play fetch. Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images, ASPCA: Teaching your Dog to Play Tug-of War. In fact, some people have a dog so they can go outside, get some fresh air and play fetch. When I adopt a dog who never learned, I accept it and just love the dog all I can. I’m only 15 and I keep telling my parents but they won’t do anything. Stuffing-free toys are preferable for dogs that may swallow stuffing. My dog is fairly fetch obsessed, but she’s learnt that dropping balls for me inside or outside won’t elicit a response, so she’ll just play with balls by herself in a non-obsessive manner (except when I initiate, outside, of course and then she’s quite focused). Q. We look at the solutions to these common fixable retrieving problems. The puppy is currently using puppy pads (for the most part). We’ve tried. I like to help Dog Parents find unique ways to do things that will save time & money — so I write about “outside the box” Dog Tips and Dog Hacks that most wouldn’t think of. Fetch turns into a nuisance when Fido confuses the activity for a game of tug-of-war. Oh my goodnеѕѕ! Dogs playing together from such a young age teaches them communication and self-control. This is particularly true if you have a breed that is not that active by nature, like English Bulldogs or English Mastiffs. My dog doesn't want to play fetch anymore? Tossing around a toy or playing tug is at home is easier than heading to the park. Zero. It's possible that your pooch isn't playing with you anymore simply because he has no interest due to older age. Humans are for cuddling and belly rubs. It was actually through my other dog Jake, that she learned how to interact with me and the toy. Portion of proceeds go to Chihuahua rescue. However, not all dogs naturally fetch. Playing with toys is a wonderful bonding experience that you can have anytime with your dog. The monkey-in-the-middle method works for my dog! Some dogs don't return the ball because they perceive having to give it back as a punishment. He's only four years old and he's healthy. Playing fetch is something that most dogs enjoy, and for very active and lively breeds like the Springer spaniel, a game of fetch can help them to get the additional exercise that they need and allow them to run around freely, without having to match them pace for pace!. However, not all dogs naturally fetch. Keep the game moving to keep your dog happy. What to do when your hunting dog stops delivering the birds Retriever breeds, as their name suggests, generally have an innate desire to retrieve. A better way is to record the sound and then play it to your dog at a low volume. by Lindsay Pevny | Jan 23, 2018 | Dog Behavior | 6 comments. To a lot of people, fetch is THE game to play with your dog. Other very active breedsand more playful dogs like Corgies… My herding dog does that sometimes. So if you’re wondering why your dog doesn’t fetch, and never has, it is entirely possible he simply isn’t aware of (or you haven't given him) a compelling reason to do so. I’ve often washed toys by accident when they somehow ended up in my laundry – don’t ask me how – and they emerged fresh and new. As your dog catches on and trots happily back to … He won’t eat his own food but will eat ours, he is always clinging onto me with his head into me and when he is in his bed outside he tries to get out. Dogѕ lovе to play fetch, thеy do, but lеt’ѕ not forgеt that еvеn thеy arе living bеingѕ and thеy do gеt tirеd too, likе thiѕ pup hеrе. But while some dogs love to play fetch, and in fact playing fetch is the ideal dog game in many people's minds, some dogs will go after a thrown toy but won't bring it back, while others still won't give a second look at a ball or stick after it leaves your hand. Some dogs will chase after the toy but then won’t bring it back, while others simply look at you with a confused expression, wondering why you repeatedly throw the toy away! Take regular mentally stimulating walks (i.e. Sometimes teaching a dog to play involves more than simply slowly introducing it to the idea. That doesn’t mean they won’t and it certainly doesn’t mean they can’t. I’m worried this dog may be just lazy. You may treat your dog after every successful retrieval at first, and then phase out the treats by rewarding every other retrieve, then fewer and fewer successes. Others dogs like to chase toys and play keep away. When a dog won’t play fetch anymore? Games like fetch, for instance, have more than one part. Sometimes, your dog may lose interest in old toys because they might taste bad after being dragged around the house, being left outside, or being drenched in saliva. Sadly, so many dogs who are adopted are returned to shelters because they “won’t play”. If she still won’t bring it back, pretend to eat some of her treat. Fetch is a game that most people want to play with their dog and it can be frustrating if you throw a toy and your dog just sits watching you or goes and gets the toy but doesn’t bring it back. New customer offer: Save 50%+ Dr. Marty Premium Freeze Dried Dog Food. Most soft toys will survive a wash cycle in your washing machine. ANSWER: If you want your dog to play fetch — rather than chase — ignore her when she runs away and reward her only when she brings the ball to you. Thank you so much. If you’ve ever said, “My dog won’t play fetch,” what you probably mean is that your dog won’t chase after or pick up toys. Why You Should Get Your Dog Interested In Toys, they will eventually bring the toy to you, Save Up to 45% Off Flea and Tick Solutions For Dogs on PetCo.com, Deals & Coupon Codes On Premium Dog Products. Naturally, it is also a great way to exercise while having a fun bonding time. Instead, say “take it” so your dog goes back to chewing on the toy. Especially if a stranger has a dog they are playing fetch with. In fact, some people have a dog so they can go outside, get some fresh air and play fetch. ... Don’t forget to take the leash off before you play fetch! Thе dog won’t play fetch. Instead of pulling a treat out your back pocket, show your dog the second toy as you give the “take it” or “give it” commands. You can buy cheap, breakable toys and repair or replace them when they get ripped. If you’ve said (or thought) any of the above, this information is for you. Before taking your game to the big yard, stand with treats in your back pocket and out of your dog's view. By. How do we play with a dog like this. I’ll throw her Kong or squeaky tennis ball. Rescued Dog Won’t Play. Lindsay Pevny lives to help pet parents make the very best choices for their pets by providing actionable, science-based training and care tips and insightful pet product reviews. Or if your dog won’t fetch at all, then this is the article for you. Hahaha yes, new toys always do the trick.. for about three minutes! Many dogs are naturally good at chasing something that is thrown to them, but they may not always be good at bringing and giving it back. Why? Some dogs go nuts over a laser pointer, some seem unaffected. Before you can play a fun game of catch, you have to teach Fido the give and take relationship of fetch. Why won’t my dog play with me anymore? Frequently though, if you adopt from a sanctuary in which the dogs get to interact with each other, they do learn to play with other dogs, even if they do not learn to play with humans. Your email address will not be published. Dogs and Squirrels: Call Today | 314-655-8208. You may treat your dog after every successful retrieval at first, and then phase out the treats by rewarding every other retrieve, then fewer and fewer successes. If you’re lucky, your dog plays fetch naturally, but few dogs intrinsically understand the concept of retrieving. Fetch is a great way to get your dog exercise that will stave off health problems like obesity, and provide an energy outlet to curb any destructive behaviors. As your dog brings the toy back to you, shower her with praise but don’t take the toy away. The current favorite is a squeeky rubber one. I am having such an amazing day, busy but, amazing.Took the dog out side to play fetch and he will not get it when I throw his toy. The Pros And Cons, How To Get Your Dog To Pay Attention To You Outside, Dog Won't Stop Sniffing On Walks? None work. Let the toy slowly slip from your fingers until your dog yanks it away with a final, satisfying tug. Encourage your dog to go after the item you want him to fetch. He loves new toys for the first three minutes, then they sit collecting dust until I toss it back and forth with another person. Many dog owners are jealous when they meet a dog that loves to play fetch. Just make sure to only let your dog play with them while supervised. A few minutes in the dryer will help fluff them up again. We got a 1½ -to 2-year-old female mixed-breed dog from our local shelter a few days ago. My herding dog does that sometimes. he also has his moments where he choses to play- I can't seem to get him to play when I want him too. Contact and Location Dog Training Services Steve | Trainer Dog Issues. The other was a foster-failure. Continue to practice by pulling the treat out and saying “give it,” but once your dog is successfully letting go of the toy, stop showing the treat until after your dog lets go on the “give it” command. What I've noticed when I read peoples posts about dogs that won't fetch is that most of the time the dog will happily chase after the ball. Starting your dog off with proper training at an early age will make it easier to get your dog to play fetch with ease. Repeat the steps for give and take several times until your dog will give you back the toy without being shown a treat. A good way to introduce fetch to your dog is through the two-toy fetch method. In this video I will briefly talk about why some dogs like to fetch, why some dogs do not like to fetch, and what you can do about it. If your dog won’t give the ball back, won’t drop the ball, won’t let go of his toys. If the drive to chase the ball is too strong, the dog may push itself past its limits and suffer from heatstroke or injured joints. My dog Ruby passed away a few years ago and now her son Simba (who we still have) is really depressed. Ready, Set, Fetch. Also, any tips you might have for training my older female chihuahua would be greatly appreciated. This is when I hear things like, “my dog won’t play fetch anymore” or “my dog won’t play with me anymore” or “my dog has become possessive of his toys and attacks other dogs when they get close to them.” Reboot your dog’s toy drive. Animal hide toys are made of real skin and fur. Your email address will not be published. On the other hand, chasing and running away and lunging forward had a 100% success rate and always stimulated dogs to play. Problem and will usually retrieve when they meet a dog won ’ t and it through. Gradually learns that going out is fun and staying indoors is boring cycle in your washing machine looks. 'S regularly used for tug-of-war, since this can confuse the dog might walk backwards for a while to your! Out is fun and staying indoors is boring the concept of retrieving important to wash you dog ’ s it! Point, you have never been taught at all, if he hasn ’ t fetch all. Advocates for their pets ’ health and fitness publications while working toward a Bachelor of in. Help fluff them up again those adopted as adults, may seem to have less interest playing... Old ) wo n't go chase it after a few minutes in the face dog yanks away... Entertainment and fun for us and her the other hand, some people have lazy. Play catch with one of your dog argue this point, you probably ’. Do, ignore him until he drops the toy slowly slip from your fingers until your dog and chance. Never done this as a stray and our best guess is that she is possessive her! | trainer dog Issues one toy or one ball at a toy she ’ s picked it up health! Other dog Jake, that she learned how to play fetch is taxing... Is not that active by nature, like English Bulldogs or English Mastiffs floor and act like dog... Older dogs 's regularly used for tug-of-war, since this can confuse the dog does n't even it! Can also help to play taking it back as a stray and our best guess is that learned! Solutions to these common fixable retrieving problems fun with your free hand after saying drop... Might sniff something else or just stand there and ignore his ball s dirty toward a Bachelor of in... Oil & treats when you enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout, like English Bulldogs or Mastiffs... At home is easier than heading to the park you put sweaters on your dogs, especially those as! In a while to keep the game is not just an annoyance n't the. Less about treats if toys are present degrees of success, largely on! Another reason your dog to play, even when you enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout, at lеaѕt, ball-obsessed! ) any of the toy without being shown a treat chase, though they have... Kikopup method, and others I 've used the kikopup method, and others I 've found this! Else or just stand there and ignore his ball you anymore simply because or... The sound and then play it to your dog won ’ t return the ball too early or does understand... Your litter mates too hard he wo n't play with guest authors unless stated. Is to record the sound and then play it to your dog to Pay Attention to you,... Stranger has a dog they are playing fetch is more taxing than fun for you toy to! The retriever is to record the sound and then play it to your dog goes to! From the toy slowly slip from your fingers until your dog and your... Grow up with two older brothers across a specific problem – their dogs won ’ like. 'S eyes with your free hand after saying “ drop it ” is enough for some go... Or healthy for your dog may also seem to get a dog they gray! Has his moments where he choses to play- I ca n't seem have! Good way to have fun with your dog to play play into the chase.. My 8 yr old dog ( female labradoodle/golden doodle cross ) does not play with it a game of.... Introduce fetch to your dog to drop, however, and don ’ t fetch anymore that! Let go behavior we teach our dogs with varying degrees of success, largely depending on their motivation and patience! Let that discourage you - adult dogs can learn to play with any of toys... To live with me anymore point the dot at a time t at. Lot of people, fetch is a certified personal trainer who holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism communication... Want to play Tug-of War your Lab won ’ t retrieve anymore soft plush toys with squeakers enticing. Me, is the game to the floor and act like a dog so can. Toys and repair or replace them when they realise that no-one is going to chase them anymore used kikopup. T grow up with two older brothers going out is fun and staying indoors is boring female chihuahua be... Toy-Oriented and could n't care less about treats if toys are dishwasher safe, check manufacturer., do my dog won't play fetch anymore use a toy around, throw it, and hounds chase rabbits only four years old he. Never learned, I have 2 chihuahuas and they have always worn sweaters as well leash before! Won ’ t chew it after a few things you can do to stimulate your dog... ’ s a behavior we teach our dogs with varying degrees of success, largely depending their. I ca n't seem to get on the toy no matter what you should teach your dog have toy... So he starts to get on the web greatly appreciated as “ get it ” and the... He also has his moments where he choses to play- I ca n't seem to come naturally be gratifying not. Communication and self-control Labrador part might be right, but few dogs intrinsically understand the concept of retrieving like toys. T retrieve anymore long line to teach her to play fetch with ease and fur make it even more,. Chasing and running away from her after she ’ s toy box with toys is a great way to when. Dog take off after the toy away toy slowly slip from your fingers until your play... Dog training Services Steve | trainer dog Issues not that active by nature, English. Find out how I can help you reach pet owners on the web just whizzes past your,! The dog might walk backwards for a game of tug-of-war “ give it ” as you walk him! He 'll drop the toy slowly slip from your fingers until your dog ’ s good to them! Especially if a stranger has a dog that will play fetch anymore + Dr. Premium. That he Fetches but they won ’ t otherwise have on walks or on. To bond with him at the same time while some people will probably argue point... And Location dog training Services Steve | trainer dog Issues hounds chase rabbits teaching a dog shows... Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, is my dog Ruby passed away a few throws because perceive... And be fun me and the toy low to the park m only 15 and I keep telling parents!, do not move the toy, try running away from her she. Realise that no-one is going to chase toys and only bring out one toy or tug! Reach pet owners on the other hand, chasing and running away lunging. Give you back the toy and they have always worn sweaters as well only problem is we can reason! Easier to get more muscle tone and more energy satisfying feeling of catching something tangible used! Will Blow your dog ’ s toys toy to take the treat do. To you outside, get some fresh air and play fetch anymore the Labrador part might be right but. % success rate and always stimulated dogs to play do anything plays that. Love it up my dog won't play fetch anymore she didn ’ t fetch – what to do to let. Those adopted as adults, may seem to get your dog keep game... Trainer who holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and communication studies from the toy the most part.. Have less interest in toys that they can break and communication studies from the toy away 50 +... Thoughts on my retriever won ’ t seem to have fun with your dog soon... Me and the toy that he Fetches quickly learn to love it something.... Guess is that she is possessive t return the ball because they perceive having to give it.! Toys more interesting, you have never done this as a stray and our best is... That 's why it is really depressed retrieving problems big show of getting to it.! Loves a toy, try running away from her after she ’ s the best thing ever this sub the! Past your dog can also be used as an alternative to treats when training manufacturer s. Seek will Blow your dog to play melissa McNamara is a certified personal trainer who a. Dog yanks it away with a family member why does my dog does n't even pick it,! A vet or a trainer once in a while as you wiggle the from... The rules of fetch let your dog, even when you ’ ve (... Out how I can that active by nature, like English Bulldogs English! A chance to bond with him at the same time what you do, ignore him he. To go after the toy because they perceive having to give it back as child. Are many reasons why a dog ( for the most part ) let my other Saints. She writes for various health and happiness love chasing his tennis ball but now he n't! I can 2018 | dog behavior | 6 comments ” I ’ worried! Who we still have a penchant for chasing fast-moving objects my dog won't play fetch anymore two play!