Monday, April 26, 2010

It's a Ball ... It's a Disc ... Catch It!

By Joanne Gallagher

Dog chase ball. Dog retrieves ball. Do it again and again and again. Do you know a dog who is obsessed with playing fetch?

Rather than chasing a ball, some dogs prefer their "babies". This is usually a soft plush dog toy that brings security and comfort to dogs. Some dogs prefer docile rather than athletic interaction.

Breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Weimaraner and Australian Shepherd are a natural at fetching balls and dog toys. In addition to fetching balls many herding and hunting breeds are also accomplished Frisbee dogs, also known as Disc Dogs.

Disc dogs require the skills necessary to track a disc and judge when and where to catch it in mid air. This requires agility and attentiveness. In order for a dog to stay focused, the dog owner shouldn't throw the Frisbee haphazardly.

A dog doesn't have to be a pure bred or come from a line of disc dogs to be an accomplished disc dog. Many mixed breeds, dogs from animal shelters and rescue groups have been trained to be World Champion disc dogs. In many cases, dogs have overcome abandonment, aggression and various trauma issues via their disc training.

For dogs who are not initially interested in fetching a ball or dog toy, they can be tempted to fetch a ball with dog treats inside of it. Make a slit in a ball and put a dog treat inside the ball. Roll the ball and when your dog fetches the ball take the treat out and reward your dog.

Disc training is different than fetch training. Using the disc as a water/food bowl will acquaint your dog with the disc. Gently toss the disc in front of your dog and encourage your dog to catch the disc in mid air. Reward your dog only when the disc is caught. Increase the throwing distance as your dog masters the disc techniques.

Teaching your dog new tricks requires a lot of repetition, attention and most of all trust. Never throw a disc or ball at your dog. Through training, play and affection the relationship between a dog and dog owner is priceless!

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