How to Make a Puppy Catch a Ball

Teaching an old dog new tricks is hard, but teaching a new dog new tricks can be just as difficult. Puppies have underdeveloped motor skills and coordination, so teaching one how to fetch and catch a ball out of the air takes persistence, praise and patience. Although some puppies learn faster than others, all dogs need constant repetition before they can successfully catch a ball.

Things You'll Need

  • Ball
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Introduce your puppy to a variety of balls with different colors and textures. You might want to find some balls that make a sound when squeezed. Exposing your puppy to different balls will help you identify which toy is his favorite. The ball must easily fit inside his mouth in order for him to catch it.

    • 2

      Play fetch with your puppy. Doing so will build coordination between his visual sense and his physical motor skills. Start tossing him the ball at short distances of 15 feet or less and gradually move further away.

    • 3

      Call his name to train him to bring the ball back. Offer lots of praise and reward him with treats as he develops his motor skills and obedience.

    • 4

      Stay within 5 feet of your dog at first. After his coordination becomes sharper, the puppy will be able to see the ball better and snatch it from midair. Start at a close distance and then move backward to a comfortable tossing distance.