We continue our dog training tips with tips on how to teach a dog to catch a Frisbee. When it comes to dogs learning to catch a Frisbee, it is really all about excitement, encouragement and praise. Frisbee fun is an easy sell for your puppy….it means they will get to run, jump and be with the person they love the most…their owner! If you have always wanted a dog that could fetch and play Frisbee, start the process early. Dogs are fully capable of learning these activities. Here are some step-by-step dog training tips for teaching your dog to catch a Frisbee.
Dog Training Tips for Teaching Your Pup to Catch a Frisbee
Begin by integrating the Frisbee – You want your puppy to equate the Frisbee with fun and excitement, as well as positivity. Let them play with the Frisbee, use the Frisbee as a food bowl (upside down) and constantly involve the Frisbee in your fun together. Eventually the Frisbee will be a normal part of their lives and one that means fun is on the way. Keep tiny dog treats with you at all times in a pocket and reward the dog every time he brings the Frisbee back or retrieves it inside the house.
Keep the sessions intense but short – Dog training sessions for Frisbee work with your dog should be short, but they should be highly energetic. Get the dog to retrieve the Frisbee in any way possible at first, but make sure you only praise them when they bring the Frisbee to you. Use the command “catch” during your session to describe what he is doing.
Never get angry – If your puppy begins to equate the Frisbee with bad things, you will have no chance at helping him learn to enjoy it. All good dog training is based in positive reinforcement and encouragement. Puppies relate very well to doing something good. Praise is the way to go.
Constantly use small treats – Little dog treats are your friend here. Give them tiny little nibbles of something they really like each time they take a positive step in the training process. This works for dogs learning to catch Frisbees as well as other challenges.
Start with short tosses – If you think you will be able to go out to the park and heave the Frisbee for your dog on day one, you are probably going to be disappointed. Dogs are quick to learn the concept but it takes time to master the throw and catch. Start with short throws that keep the dog close. As he or she learns to catch better, you can make the throws a little longer.
Teaching a dog to catch a Frisbee is really about integrating the Frisbee and making sure they recognize what please you. Dogs will naturally chase and catch a Frisbee over time, but it is up to you to let them know that is what you are wanting. Praise will do the trick, but you have to be willing to invest in the time and energy in dog training. The end result is well worth the efforts.
