How to Train a Terrier Puppy to Fetch a Ball

Terrier puppies are playful dogs that love to chase things, which makes them naturals for training to fetch, come and drop. The hardest of these to teach is "drop," as terriers naturally assume the ball is theirs and probably will not want to give it back, at least not without some chasing involved. Fortunately, terriers are also great treat connoisseurs. Patience, persistence, praise and a ready supply of treats will make the task easier and a great deal of fun for you and your terrier puppy.

Things You'll Need

  • Collar
  • Retractable leash
  • Ball
  • Clicker
  • Doggie treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a hard rubber ball in proportion to your terrier's mouth. The ball should be small enough for him to easily pick up, but large enough that there is no danger of him swallowing it.

    • 2

      Introduce the ball to your terrier puppy, teasing him a bit. Place it near his mouth and move it away. Toss the ball in the air and catch it. The purpose of this is to make the ball an object of desire.

    • 3

      Throw the ball a short distance away and command "Fetch." Speak in an enthusiastic tone. If the puppy approaches the ball, praise him and reward him with a treat. Repeat this process until your terrier is performing this command on a regular basis.

    • 4

      Place the ball into your terrier's mouth after he approaches it and say "Fetch." Click the clicker as he accepts the ball into his mouth. Praise and reward him for his accomplishment.

    • 5

      Move away after he has the ball in his mouth. Command "Come" in an excited manner. Terriers love to play, so chances are he will want to run with the ball. If he does come, click the clicker and reward him with a treat and praise.

    • 6

      Use a retractable leash if the dog will not return the ball on his own. Allow about 8-10 feet on the lead, toss the ball, then command "Fetch" and "Come." Click the clicker each time he performs an action. When saying "Come," start retracting the leash until he is by your side. Remove the ball from his mouth, click the clicker and reward.

    • 7

      Work on getting him to release the ball after he has mastered the "Fetch" and "Come" commands. Gently remove the ball from his mouth. Speak a command such as "Drop" as you remove the ball. Click the clicker each time and reward. After several of these actions, repeat without removing the ball yourself. After a few attempts, he should drop the ball on his own after hearing the command and clicker.

    • 8

      Start throwing the ball greater distances. Do this in gradual steps, increasing the distance only as your dog masters fetching the ball and bringing it back to you for each distance. Remember to click, praise and reward with each mastered step.