I am the handler of the dog
Build a motivational foundation
- put dog on the long leash
- friend tosses and kicks the dumbbell around just out of the dogs reach teasing the dog until a strong drive is built up in the dog to grab the dumbbell
- let the dog finally grab the dumbbell
If this is the first couple of times the dog gets the dumbbell then:
- praise the dog saying whatever your fetch word is
- run in a circle to encourage the dog to hold and carry the dumbbell
Repeat this procedure until the dog is holding and carrying the dumbbell well
To build on the hold and carry:
- friend plays tug-of-war with the dog using the dumbbell
- handler of the dog keeps tension on the leash so that this is possible
- avoid creating hectic behavior
- create a calm drive by working into a calm tug-of-war
When the dog is carrying the dumbbell well, more work is done to increase the hold
- move away from him using short pops on the leash to encourage him to follow with the dumbbell
- tap the dumbbell on the sides but don't take it
- push the dumbbell gently away as you back up to encourage the dog to push the dumbbell towards you
When the dog is insistent that you play:
- grab the dumbbell quickly
- let go instantly so the dog gets the dumbbell back
- repeat the fetch word and "good dog"
- do this two to four times before letting him carry it around
Pay attention to little things like:
- don't chase the dog to get the dumbbell, he should be pushing it at you
- try not to reach to far to grab the dumbbell so the dog will learn to stay in close
- don't grab the dumbbell for too long
After a few repetitions, run the dog off the training field carrying the dumbbell
- run quickly so he does not drop the dumbbell
- if he drops it kick it away holding him so he cannot get the dumbbell and run him off without saying anything
Praise is done according to the following rules:
- only when he has the dumbbell in his mouth
- do not praise him after he has dropped it
Keep the sessions short. Always end with the dog wanting to play more.