Teaching to Fetch

[Helius]

Our boy 'Helius' is 10 weeks old and is learning commands very well. My wife and I play with him often, and would like to start teaching him to fetch. A few questions:
a). At present, he will 'drop it' 70% of the time on the first command, does this need to improve before we start with 'fetching'?
b). What is the best way to teach him to 'fetch'?

[Judi W]

With a baby, what you are doing is just fine. One thing I try to do even at this stage is teach them to bring to hand because much much later when things become formal, then that early teaching surfaces. Take care that the release doesn't turn into tug, offering a treat reward usually solves that if necessary.

[Romana]

I'm not sure if this is the right method, but this is how I taught Tyro to ftch the ball. First I did it with one ball. I'd trhow it and he would run to get it. And then he'd just run away with it in his mouth. No brining back. Then I took two identical balls and as I would throw one for him, I'd play with the other, not looking at him. He would then come to me and drop his ball. Mine was more interesting, it would bounce and I would make happy noise while playing with it, but never looking at him. The moment he'd drop his ball I would say "Good!" and throw mine. Then I'd pick up the one he'd dropped and continue like this. I think this way he god the message that every time he'd drop his ball another one would fly away for him to catch. It took a fe weeks like this, playing with two balls, and then I started keeping my ball and picking up the one he dropped and throwing that one to him. Gradually I started playing with only one. It worked for Tyro really well. Trust me, it only takes time and a lot of patience. Don't ever run after him to get the ball! Than he knows that you want his, and he will start guarding it. He must realize that every time he drops the ball it doesn't mean that the game is over, on the contrary, that is what starts the game. And now we play hours like this, now I can just sit and throw the ball if I am too tired to move with him, and he has a great and fun exercise. I also bought in Germany the plastic "Ball thrower". I don't know what else to call it, and it is just great. You can pick up the ball with it and not get your hands dirty and wet.
If you have time and patience, do this and you'll soon both enjoy a very good and useful exercise. Now Tyro just adores his ball and would do anyhting to get it. I am using it s a treat when teaching him new tricks, as Tyro is not a food-motivated dog.
Good luck and have fun!