How to Train a Toy Poodle to Fetch a Rubber Ball

Toy Poodles are highly trainable dogs because they like pleasing people. Toy Poodles have been trained to learn complex tricks for circuses, according to the American Kennel Club, but Toy Poodles need to be taught how to fetch. Each dog will learn at its own pace. Keep training sessions to only a few minutes to keep the dog from getting bored. It may take many sessions teach a dog to fetch.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft dog toy
  • Collar and lead
  • Rubber ball for dogs
  • Dog treats (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather together a collar, lead, dog treats such as hot dogs or cheese cut to the size of the poodle's kibble, and a soft dog toy that is large enough so the Toy Poodle cannot swallow it. It's best to use a soft toy and then a rubber ball at this stage because a thrown rubber ball can hurt the dog if it accidentally hits it.

    • 2

      Place the collar and lead on the Toy Poodle and go to a small room without many distractions. Kneel on the floor to better get the small dog's attention. Start rolling the ball on the floor. This gets the dog's interest, according to "New Complete Dog Training Manual." When the Toy Poodle is directly in front of the toy, present the toy to the dog on the flat of your palm. Praise the dog when it picks up the toy. Then present a dog treat and when the dog drops the toy to eat the treat, praise and give another treat.

    • 3

      Repeat the process but gradually move away and gently toss the soft toy. If the dog does not immediately begin moving toward you, gently tug on the lead. When the dog begins moving toward you, praise verbally. Do not give treats until the dog has dropped the ball.

    • 4

      Repeat the process in a room with people in it or other distractions. When the poodle masters that, repeat the process outside in a fenced yard and stand up to throw the toy. The poodle may at first be confused. This is normal. Dogs may not understand that tricks learned inside are to be performed the same way outside, according to the "New Complete Dog Training Manual." When the poodle finally figures it out, then take the lead off and use a rubber ball made for dogs instead of the soft toy. Whenever the Toy Poodle seems to forget its lessons, go back to Step 1. Always end a training session on a good note by getting the Toy Poodle to do something it knows well.