When your dog doesn't play by the rules

[Jeb123]

This blog is a really fun interpretation of what it's like to do normal dog things when you have a less than co-operative dog!

Fun Games to Play with Your Independent Dog!

Here's a little preview if you're interested:

Human fetch.

We’re sure this is the independent dog’s favourite game. I’ve played this game with many dogs in my life, and it’s always a winner.

How to play:

1. 
Throw toy

2. Watch dog run towards the toy

3. Watch dog sniff toy, then change direction and run away from toy

4. Go and fetch the toy yourself

5. Repeat steps 1-4

 

[arealhuman]

1. 
Throw toy

2. Watch dog run towards the toy

3. Watch dog sniff toy, then change direction and run away from toy

4. Go and fetch the toy yourself

5. Repeat steps 1-4

Sounds familiar

 

[Peegee]

My dog and I play a similar game with a ball. I throw, she chases and picks up ball and waits patiently until I reach her, she drops ball and waits for me to throw, and so on...

 

[Biker John]

With me its, Throw ball watch Whippet chase, pick it up then run around with it for a while, drop it. I then walk over pick it up and repeat.

 

[Peegee]

What is it with these dogs. We've had three dogs over the years, a sheltie, a border collie and now a Cockapoo. None of them have mastered the game of fetch and return. Is this something they need to be taught? Or do some dogs just not have these genes?

 

[gypsysmum2]

Some dogs see fetch as them fetching and you "taking" the toy. They need convincing that they will get the toy back if they retrieve it. Sometimes it helps to have two balls and to throw another one after the first one is picked up. Don't do it for too long before you encourage the dog to bring the first ball a little closer each time. It may help to run away from the dog so that it has to follow you.

Some dogs just don't like carrying things in their mouth. You could experiment with all types of materials to see if the dog favours one over the other. Fur is often popular

A good way to start is in the house with toy swap game. You give me your toy and I will give you a treat or a game with another toy kind of thing.

If, during its life, a dog has been chastised for "stealing" and had their prize confiscated (think back to stolen shoes during the puppy years) then that can put them off retrieving too. Their thinking is that if we get our hands on their prize they will never see it again. Always swap stolen items for something better

 

[Peegee]

Well that makes perfect sense. Will try your ideas out Gypsysmum.

 

[cassandrawilliams]

I guess you're right Biker John.