How to Teach a Dog to Fetch and Bring It Back

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Fetch is a classic game and a wonderful way to exercise a dog. Many dogs love it instinctively, while others need to be taught each piece.

The four parts

1. Chasing the toy
2. Picking it up
3. Bringing it back
4. Releasing it into your hand

Teach each part separately if your dog struggles. See how to teach drop it.

Choose a toy

Pick something your dog loves, such as a ball, a rope toy or a soft plush. Make sure it is the right size, durable and not a choking hazard. Avoid sticks, which can splinter and injure. Use a special toy only for fetch to keep it exciting.

Step 1: Build interest

Play with the toy yourself, drag it along the floor, toss it a short distance and encourage your dog. Reward any interest, such as sniffing, pawing or picking it up.

Step 2: Reward picking up

Mark and reward when your dog picks up the toy. Gradually require more, such as carrying it a step.

Step 3: Encourage returning

Run away from your dog as they pick up the toy, so they follow you. Reward when your dog comes toward you. Use a happy voice and avoid chasing your dog.

Step 4: Use two toys

Show a second toy as your dog returns. When your dog drops the first toy to take the second, mark and throw the second. This teaches that returning leads to more fun.

Step 5: Add the cue

Say "fetch" as you throw, and "drop it" as your dog approaches. Reward each stage.

Step 6: Increase distance

Throw the toy farther, gradually. Keep returns rewarding.

For dogs who do not fetch

• Try tug and trade games
• Use a long line to guide your dog back. See how to use a long line for training
• Hide treats in toys
• Try different toys and textures
• Accept that fetch is not for every dog, and try other games, such as find it. See how to play find it

Safety and welfare

Do not play fetch in hot weather, on slippery ground or for long periods. Repetitive jumping and sudden stops can stress joints. Mix fetch with other activities, and watch for signs of fatigue. Dogs that become obsessed with balls may need balanced play.

Troubleshooting

• Your dog runs off with the toy. Use two toys, and make coming back more rewarding than keeping it.
• Your dog drops the toy far away. Reward closer drops.
• Your dog guards the toy. Seek help from a qualified trainer.
• Your dog loses interest. Shorten the game, and use higher-value toys.

Retrieving real items

Once your dog is a confident retriever, you can teach them to fetch specific items. See how to teach a dog to retrieve specific items.

A sample plan

• Week 1: Build interest and reward pick-ups.
• Week 2: Reward returning, add the second toy.
• Week 3: Add cues and distance.

Common mistakes

• Chasing your dog. If you chase to retrieve the toy, your dog learns that keeping it starts a game. Run away instead, or stand still and reward the return.
• Grabbing the toy. Pulling it out of the mouth teaches dogs to clamp down. Trade for a treat or second toy.
• Overdoing it. Dozens of throws in a row can tire the dog, stress joints and build obsessive behavior. Stop while your dog still wants more.
• Throwing in hot weather. Dogs overheat quickly. Play in cool hours and offer water.

Breeds and instincts

Retrievers, spaniels and many herding dogs love to chase and carry. Hounds and some terriers may chase but not return. Guarding and companion breeds may prefer other games. Match the game to your dog rather than forcing a style that does not suit them.

Puppies should play short, gentle games on soft ground, since growing joints are vulnerable. Keep the toy at a manageable size, and avoid throws that make your dog twist or jump suddenly.

The takeaway

Break fetch into parts, use two toys and keep it fun and safe. Not every dog loves it, and that is okay.