Teach the "Drop it" command.
Start with a toy or object that your dog doesn't really have a strong preference for (one that he will drop or pick up easily). Have yummy treats ready and just sit on the floor with your dog. Drop the toy in front of him and let him pick it up. At first, just say the command "drop it" when he drops it. Then up the ante by saying the command, wait for him to drop it, and treating him as soon as he drops it. It doesn't take too long to teach.
Now, if he's really in love with the ball he won't give back, it will take a little longer to teach drop it with a beloved object. So really get it down will alot of objects before you move to the ball.
When playing catch, you can also avoid confusion by saying: "go get it" when you throw it, and when he comes back to your vicinity, say "drop it".
I don't claim to be an expert, so I know there are others that may be able to explain this a little better than me! |