Revealed: Strategy to Enhance Your Dog's Fetch Skills Requires Mastery of Different Game (Spoiler: Other Game Comes First)
Melissa Goodman, a dog trainer from Mission Pawsitive, has shared a unique method to teach dogs fetch through tug-of-war using the Earth Rated Tug Toy. In a recent Instagram post, she demonstrated the method with a client's dog named Lola.
The Earth Rated Tug Toy, priced at $23.99 on Chewy, is a soft and durable toy with a smooth, curved shape that's easy to grab. This toy is particularly effective for dogs that do not naturally retrieve or enjoy fetch but love tugging.
The method involves teasing the dog with their favorite tug toy to make them want it, then letting go and moving away to encourage them to bring the toy over. The trainer always does at least a little tug before letting go again. Bringing the toy over to the trainer is how the dog resumes playing and makes the trainer tug with them again.
Lola is rewarded with a quick game of tug after bringing the toy. As the dog gets the hang of it, the trainer gradually adds more distance when Lola brings her the toy. The tug element can be phased out, allowing for simple fetch play.
Playing with dogs offers numerous benefits such as physical activity, mental stimulation, and fulfillment of natural instincts. Fetch and tug-of-war are popular games for dogs, providing physical and mental stimulation.
Following Goodman's advice and incorporating tug could be beneficial for dogs struggling with fetch. By using the Earth Rated Tug Toy, dog owners may find that this toy is a game-changer for their dogs learning fetch through tug.
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