Pet Portraits by Jack Lindsay

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I would be especially pleased to create a custom quality and reasonably priced pet portrait of your cherished pet dog, pet cat, pet horse or pet bird or to honor your memories with a pet memorial tribute.

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The Fetch Command

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Fetch is a fun and easy command that you and your dog will enjoy.  Fetching provides your canine with an exciting game and exercise and allows you to create a bigger bond.  Once it is learned you will be able to play with him indoors, outdoors, anywhere at any time.   Keep in mind, however, that your pooch should know the commands Sit and Stay before learning retrieving.

Here are the steps you can take to teach your pet how to retrieve:

Step 1 – Take your dog, some treats and his favorite toy into a quiet room.  

Step 2 - Command him to “sit” and “stay” then place his toy a few steps away from him.  Give him the instruction to retrieve the toy by either using the words “Find Toy” or “Fetch”.  The moment he moves toward the object, even if he doesn’t touch it, praise him right away and give him a treat.  Continue repeating this exercise, encouraging him to pick up the toy and always praising.  When he picks up the item, praise him, take the toy in exchange for a treat.  Take a break and play with him for a little while after you have made this progress.

Step 3 – After you have successfully managed to have him fetch the toy, your next goal is to have him return it to you.  Have him sit, toss the toy so it is still in plain sight and use your fetch command word.  When he goes to get the toy, crouch down, clap or open your arms out to encourage him to come back to you.  As soon as he comes to you with the toy praise him and give him a reward immediately.  Repeat until his first response is to return to you.

Step 4 – The next time you attempt the retrieving command your goal will be to have your pup put the toy in your hand.  You can help him learn that this is what you want by trading the toy for a treat.  When he returns to you with the object, open your hand and place the food on your palm.  He will likely drop the item in favor for the cookie.

Once your pooch becomes more comfortable with fetch and will easily hand over the toy to you without a treat exchange, you can then begin moving on to more advanced fetching exercises, such as launching items at a long distance and hiding toys for him so he can engage in tracking games.

Article written by Joseph Gerard of ohmydogsupplies.com, check out our cool assortment of raised dog feeders online.