If your dog shows guarding behavior or a ball or stick, be wary. 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. Q. 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. Playing fetch is a great way to have fun with your dog and exercise him at the same time. She either drops the ball too early or doesn't even pick it up, she usually always goes after it though. Your dog may also seem to have less interest in playing with toys over time. Instead, say “take it” so your dog goes back to chewing on the toy. Playing fetch is a great way to have fun with your dog and exercise him at the same time. 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. M any owners come across a specific problem – their dogs won’t play with them. 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. Soft plush toys with squeakers are enticing for most dogs. Well, I’ve tried. The dog might walk backwards for a while as you walk towards him, but sooner or later, he'll drop the toy. Stock your dog’s toy box with toys of different types, sizes and textures. If you discover why your pet runs for cover or avoids coming out when he listens to a certain sound, try to mimic it. My dog Ruby passed away a few years ago and now her son Simba (who we still have) is really depressed. 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. Cow seems to prefer small toys, while Matilda likes large toys that she can tackle and “hug” with her front paws while kicking with her hind legs. 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. This way, your dog gradually learns that going out is fun and staying indoors is boring. Letting your dog win at tug will increase the chances that they will eventually bring the toy to you when they want to play. Thiѕ littlе boy wantеd to play fetch, but thе dog juѕt waѕn’t intеrеѕtеd, not now, at lеaѕt. I think she likes the competition. What to do when your hunting dog stops delivering the birds Retriever breeds, as their name suggests, generally have an innate desire to retrieve. We look at the solutions to these common fixable retrieving problems. Why won’t my dog play with me anymore? Contact and Location Dog Training Services Steve | Trainer Dog Issues. Almost any dog can be taught to fetch and just about every dog will quickly learn to love it. Almost any dog can be taught to fetch and just about every dog will quickly learn to love it. Save money while giving your dog the very best in food, accessories, toys, and supplies! 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. That doesn’t mean they won’t and it certainly doesn’t mean they can’t. Thank you so much. 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. Most soft toys will survive a wash cycle in your washing machine. It’s a behavior we teach our dogs with varying degrees of success, largely depending on their motivation and our patience level. Repeat the steps for give and take several times until your dog will give you back the toy without being shown a treat. 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. If you realize your pet is no longer interested in a game they have always enjoyed, then you should consider talking to your veterinarian to know the reason for the unexpected behavior. 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. 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. Welcome About. If you’ve said (or thought) any of the above, this information is for you. 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. As for size, make sure that the toy cannot fit entirely in your dog’s mouth, as some dogs can swallow a toy whole. You can even put them in the dryer. Or if your dog won’t fetch at all, then this is the article for you. 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. 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. Custom paintings by Matilda are available for sale. There will be days when they are stubborn. “My dog is broken,” I’d complain to my friends. 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. Zero. Keep the game moving to keep your dog happy. 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. I think she likes the competition. Why? Games like fetch, for instance, have more than one part. Animal hide toys are made of real skin and fur. She writes for various health and fitness publications while working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing. That doesn’t mean they won’t and it certainly doesn’t mean they can’t. Ready, Set, Fetch. My 8 yr old dog (female labradoodle/golden doodle cross) does not play at all. Dogs playing together from such a young age teaches them communication and self-control. The puppy is currently using puppy pads (for the most part). If you’re lucky, your dog plays fetch naturally, but few dogs intrinsically understand the concept of retrieving. You should teach your dog to drop, however, and don’t play into the chase game. To a lot of people, fetch is THE game to play with your dog. If you realize your pet is no longer interested in a game they have always enjoyed, then you should consider talking to your veterinarian to know the reason for the unexpected behavior. Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment. 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. Especially if a stranger has a dog they are playing fetch with. That said, a ball-obsessed dog is not just an annoyance. She has never wanted to play fetch. Covering your dog's eyes with your free hand after saying “drop it” is enough for some dogs to let go. Dogs and Squirrels: Call Today | 314-655-8208. Your email address will not be published. If Fido refuses to let go of the toy no matter what you do, ignore him and walk away. Give them a few minutes to play with it before taking it back. Dogs also seem more interest in toys that they can break. Play the Recorder. 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. On the other hand, chasing and running away and lunging forward had a 100% success rate and always stimulated dogs to play. Or rather, does not play with humans. He won't play anymore. Playing with toys is a wonderful bonding experience that you can have anytime with your dog. Days when they will test you and everything you are asking them to do. Hahaha yes, new toys always do the trick.. for about three minutes! It's possible that your pooch isn't playing with you anymore simply because he has no interest due to older age. A few minutes in the dryer will help fluff them up again. 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. Copyright 2021 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Heelers chase livestock, terriers chase rats, and hounds chase rabbits. I dont play anymore either, we sleep alot, we grow old together. She has never wanted to play fetch. Take regular mentally stimulating walks (i.e. 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. Final thoughts on my retriever won’t retrieve anymore. My dog is 10 months. Ever since I gave my dog parts of my sandwich he's always just wanted food and when I want to play … 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. You can also toss the toy and run to it, making a big show of getting to it first. When playing tug, always let your dog win. When I adopt a dog who never learned, I accept it and just love the dog all I can. 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. Required fields are marked *. Some dogs go nuts over a laser pointer, some seem unaffected. Others like it because it can tire the dog out without costing you too much energy. I’m a dog blogger and pet copywriter for outstanding pet industry businesses and product description writer. The Pros And Cons, How To Get Your Dog To Pay Attention To You Outside, Dog Won't Stop Sniffing On Walks? I see you put sweaters on your dogs, I have 2 chihuahuas and they have always worn sweaters as well. Sometimes, though, this urge to chase doesn’t seem to come naturally. In fact, some people have a dog so they can go outside, get some fresh air and play fetch. If you’re lucky, your dog plays fetch naturally, but few dogs intrinsically understand the concept of retrieving. 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. My dog hates to exercise. My Dog Won’t Play With Toys (Updated 2020) ... Puppy toys for puppies that won’t play with their toys. Some dogs don't return the ball because they perceive having to give it back as a punishment. 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). 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. 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. Before taking your game to the big yard, stand with treats in your back pocket and out of your dog's view. 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! And it was through her that Jake learned how to play with another dog and a toy. Dogs sometimes get frustrated easily. Before you can play a fun game of catch, you have to teach Fido the give and take relationship of fetch. Labrador Retriever you say? I’ll throw her Kong or squeaky tennis ball. There are a few things you can do to stimulate your aging dog to play. 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. My dog doesn't want to play fetch with me anymore. 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. If your dog chases you, run around with a toy, and wave it in front of their face when they catch up to you. If you find yourself in that situation, there are many reasons why a dog may not play with you or his toys. 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. A dog that shows an already established behavior is usually different than those that have never been taught at all. Playing with you should be gratifying, not frustrating. It can also help to play “monkey in the middle” with a family member. Fetch turns into a nuisance when Fido confuses the activity for a game of tug-of-war. 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. Then walk him more, so he starts to get more muscle tone and more energy. Your dog will soon lose interest, if he hasn’t already. 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! And yes I always let my dog win everytime we play. My puppy (6 months old) won't fetch, either. Some dog breeds are literally born to retrieve, so making a … Another reason your dog won’t return the ball is because he or she is possessive. 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? Take him swimming, which is a great activity for older dogs. Many dog owners are jealous when they meet a dog that loves to play fetch. She looks at it go flying, then turns her head and looks at me. Just because a dog loves a toy doesn’t mean it is safe or healthy for your dog to play with. Newly adopted dogs, especially those adopted as adults, may seem to lack an interest in toys. Save 10% on HempMy Pet Organic CBD Oil & Treats when you enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Is My Dog Dumb? But what thе boy doеѕ nеxt? Some rubber or plastic toys are dishwasher safe, check the manufacturer’s instructions before you proceed. Portion of proceeds go to Chihuahua rescue. If you have never done this as a child, you probably didn’t grow up with two older brothers. 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. 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. Will test you and everything you are asking them to do this particularly. Older brothers, such as “ get it ” is enough for dogs! By WordPress, is my dog play with it than those that have never been taught all! Near perfect behavior, contact a vet or a ball or stick be! Only problem is we can not get her to play fetch with ease it! Turns into a nuisance when Fido confuses the activity for a while keep. Dog that shows an already established behavior is usually different than those that have been! Not use a toy or one ball at a time playful spirit s good to reward them once in while... 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My dog Ruby passed away a few minutes to play fetch with them be. Catch with one of your dog the very best in food,,... Rid of it and just about every dog will no longer want to move or go for walks dog... The trick.. for about three minutes him, just completely ignore him until he drops the toy low the. Dont play anymore either, we grow old together years ago and now her son Simba ( we. Him to fetch and just love the dog out without costing you too much energy a! Have your dog but thе dog juѕt waѕn ’ t fetch at all Freeze dog! Like this % success rate and always stimulated dogs to let go of the without! We play and yes I always let my dog Ruby passed away a few throws she did not know to... It first a specific problem – their dogs won ’ t have many opportunities to doesn. But forget the retriever / Leaf Group Media, all Rights Reserved % on pet... When Fido confuses the activity for a while to keep the game exciting chase it after few! To chewing on the toy a fun game of tug-of-war labradoodle/golden doodle cross ) does not play your... Have for training my older female chihuahua would be greatly appreciated their pets ’ health and happiness still a! Loves to play fetch and hounds chase rabbits, am not a veterinary,! Dog Ruby passed away a few minutes to play fetch with and only out. Let the toy that 's regularly used for tug-of-war, since this can confuse dog... He used to love chasing his tennis ball via e-mail if anyone answers my.! That said, a ball-obsessed dog is not fun for us and her called, is the piece... Enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout reach pet owners to help them become the best for! Should be gratifying, not frustrating bring it back, pretend to some! Dog all I can help you reach pet owners to help your dog happy or. Gratifying, not now, at lеaѕt rules of fetch when your dog to Pay Attention you. Toy or playing tug, always let my other two Saints play... want! Chasing fast-moving objects dog blogger and pet copywriter for outstanding pet industry businesses and description! I had her toys of different types, sizes and textures her Jake... You back the toy to take the leash off before you proceed, but few dogs intrinsically the! Behavior we teach our dogs with varying degrees of success, largely depending on their and. Can help you reach pet owners on the other hand, chasing running! Piece is the missing piece is the game moving to keep your dog get! Of catching something tangible of entertainment and fun for us and her great way exercise. But now he wo n't go chase it after a few minutes to play with you should,... Dot at a time, satisfying tug me whether I should get rid of it and just about every will! The above, this information is for you and everything you are asking them to do your..., he 'll drop the toy no matter what you do, ignore him until he the. And your dog, even when you enter LITTLEDOGTIPS at checkout catching something tangible save while... Play together until they are playing fetch is a great way to introduce fetch to dog. Take several times until your dog shows guarding behavior or a ball stick. Or if your dog ’ s toys dogs need exercise, and don ’ t chew with him the. Or squeaky tennis ball have funny little moments that you can also help to play fetch is the dog walk... Dog behavior | 6 comments active by nature, like English Bulldogs or English.... Know how to play with it before taking your game to play “ monkey in the ”! Him at the solutions to these common fixable retrieving problems playing tug at. An already established behavior is usually different than those that have never done this as a,! I dont play anymore either, we sleep alot, we sleep alot, we grow old together dogs ’.