Another puppy question

[Shel]

We have a 10 month labrador that won't learn how to play catch with a ball! She's a smart pup that's leash broke, house broke (finally!), sits on command, and just learned the new command "lie down". But she just looks at us & cocks her head when we toss a ball to her. Any suggestions?
Oh...another thing, we have another rescue - a 3 year old Belgian shepherd that has always been afraid of a ball since we've had her. We figured she was probably abused by having things thrown at her, by her previous owners. Would that have a bearing on the little one not being interested? Thanks!

 

[mommytotwo]

I would think that the puppy is learning from your dog. Maybe you could take the puppy to the park away from the dog and teach her how to play with a ball. If your puppy like bells, get a ball that has a bell that will attract her to it.

 

[MeanLaureen]

I would try getting some of the "Kong" balls and toys that allow you to put a milkbone or peanut butter or some other treat in it and let them play with them for a couple of days (it keeps them occupied trying to get the cookie out bit by bit or licking the peanut butter out) and once they are familiar and not scared of the Kong toy, use that for fetch and see how it works

 

[hoosll]

Some dogs just aren't interested in balls.

Does the dog bring things to you at home - other toys - this would demonstrate that she has an instinct to retrieve. Be sure you praise her anytime she brings you something. Many retrievers like something soft in their mouths - think dead bird - try throwing a fleece toy or other soft toy. They have some cute toys that actually look like dead ducks.

If over the months of training she has been scolded for bringing things to you such as shoes, child toys etc., then you have created a negative retrieve response. The dog will need a lot of praise and positive reinforcement to break this pattern.

Please read this article:
http://slate.msn.com/id/2103801/

 

[EsmeraldaX]

If the previous owners were throwing things at her and yelling, it would ceratainly make the older dog not want to play catch.

We taught Monty Dog to play catch and fetch by clicker training. I think all dog owners should look into clicker training. It works great.

But mostly he just seemed to really like chasing things. Some dogs don't.

A retriever really should , but give him time. He's still a baby.