The basic commands for retrieving are: “Fetch,” or go pick it up, “hold,” don't drop it until I tell you, “come,” to the handler, and “release,” let go of it on command. As is true with all commands, the words used are not important. Use the same word every time. This is consistency.

Restrain the dog and then throw your training dummy a very short distance. Now release the dog and say the fetch command. It is important to use something the dog finds interesting. A balled-up dirty sock, a favorite toy or anything the dog has shown interest in carrying. If the dog brings the retrieving dummy all the way back, then give the release command and take the dummy.

If the dog does not pick the dummy up, then move on to the hold command. With the dog sitting, hand the dummy to the dog and say fetch. If the dog does not take the dummy, grasp its bottom jaw, holding its lip over its teeth and roll the object into the dog's mouth. Now hang on, because many dogs will struggle at this point. You may need to be behind the dog for a better angle on restraining any escape. Try to hold the object in the dog's mouth until it relaxes a little. When the dog relaxes, give the release command and take the object.

If the dog retrieves the dummy the first time, then you can assume the dog has good retrieving instincts. If it does not, then you can assume retrieving may be secondary to the dog. Either way, do not over-do the early retrieving work. Two or three reps at a time is enough. If, in a couple hours you have the time to try again, do so. This is best if done twice a day for two short reps.

The command you should work on the most for the next two classes is the hold command. Hand the dog the object and say ‘fetch.' If the dog does not take the dummy say ‘fetch,' force the dummy on the dog until it relaxes a little, all the while saying ‘hold.' Then give the release command. Be as gentle as possible through out this exercise. Remember to praise your dog often. Use a firm but gentle voice and if the dog is telling you that it cannot do any more right now, stop for awhile. Coating the dummy with a little food or juice from cooked meat may help. Soup may work also to make the object more interesting. You will find smaller objects are easier on the dog. Short reps, not making the dog hold for very long, and praise will help.

Charlie Linblade

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