How to Train a Basset Hound Puppy to Fetch a Ball

While basset hounds are scent hounds and have no retrieving instinct, they can be trained to play fetch with a little patience. The same techniques used to train any puppy to play fetch work with the basset hound. It will just take a little more patience.

Things You'll Need

  • Basset hound puppy
  • Toys
  • Ball
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the basset hound puppy's favorite toy. It will be easier to hold the puppy's attention with this toy than with a ball that is introduced to the training later.

    • 2

      Toss the toy a short distance. Keep it less than 10 feet away to start, and the basset hound puppy should chase the toy and grab it. After all it is its favorite toy. When the dog picks up the toy, get the puppy's attention and back away. The basset hound should follow you with the toy in its mouth.

    • 3

      Let the puppy catch up to you and hold your hand out for the toy. Either trade the toy for another toy, teaching the puppy to release the toy it retrieved, or offer the puppy a treat for the same purpose. Praise the puppy for his behavior.

    • 4

      Continue the training for short periods of time each day. Increase the distance you throw the toy as the basset hound puppy becomes more accustomed to retrieving the toy and returning it to your hand. When the puppy is comfortable with the routine with a toy, substitute a ball. Shake the ball in front of the puppy's nose to get his attention and interest.

    • 5

      Increase the distance the ball is thrown when the basset hound puppy successfully retrieves the ball. If the puppy consistently retrieves the ball when it's thrown as far as you can, you can try to increase the distance. While all puppies train at different rates, expect this to take 2 or 3 months.