Teach Your Dog to Play Fetch

In five easy steps. Supplies: Tennis ball (hollow and bright) Small dog treats (with a strong scent) A long lead (a leash with lots of extra slack) You Your dog

Step 1: Cut a One Inch Slit in a Hollow Tennis Ball

The brighter the ball the better. Use a box cutter to make the narrow slice.

Step 2: Drop Treats Inside the Ball

Use tasty treats with a strong scent (bacon bits and milk bones work well) to drop into the ball, making sure there is enough room for the treats to shake about inside the ball. Your dog can watch you do this.

Step 3: With Your Dog on a Long Lead Toss the Ball in Front of You

Your dog might just sit there and stare at it, if he does encourage him by chasing after the ball yourself and leading him along with you. If he does chase the ball, pull him back on the lead, grab the ball from his mouth, squeeze to release the treat and give it your dog along with lots of praise.

Step 4: Repeat Step 3 & Add a Verbal Cue

Like "Fetch" or "Get it" as you grow more confident in your dogs recall, lose the lead and try off leash. Eventually your dog won't need the treat incentive and will retrieve for the fun of it.

Step 5: Go to the Park and Play Ball

Have fun