Learn to communicate better and be ‘fun and playful’ for your dog because this is key to building your relationship with him! A Few of ELICIA’S Favorite Games to Play.
Have the dog Chase after you with a toy in their mouth – very important for fetching!
- You can try to get that by tossing a toy in one direction and as the dog grabs it, starting to run in opposite direction, if needed using a 2nd toy to get their attention
- Another way is to tug with a dog then let them win then immediately jump back a step or two and try to invite the dog after you for more play, with them offering you the toy again.
- To add variety try playing with a toy on a long string, so the dog doesn’t have an option to take a toy away.
Praise when you feel the dog is really running with you (while holding the toy) rather than just tugging on a toy.
Encourage them to SHARE their toys with you
- Don’t try to steal a toy every time.
- Let them enjoy a toy and join in by squeaking on it, cuddling or rolling around or climbing in your lap with a toy in their mouth – all very good for fetching!
Try multi-toy games – very important for getting them to drop a toy when cued.
- Let the dog win the 1st toy and immediately try to focus her on a 2nd toy that you make alive
- You can also add a “drop” cue at the moment you know the dog will let the 1st toy go.
- She will be immediately rewarded for dropping the 1st toy with playing with the 2nd.
Elicia Calhoun has been teaching and Competing Internationally for over 26 years. She has represented the United States on 27 different world championship teams. Her award highlights include having won 3 World Championship Gold Medals as well as 4 National Championship Titles. Her gift is her ability to connect with dogs and develop an amazing relationship for that winning team.