Retrieving with a dummy: first steps

The Golden Retriever carries everything it finds in its mouth. Dummy play turns this desire into a task the dog performs eagerly and thoroughly.

Start at home

Do your first throws in the hallway, where your puppy has only one path: to the dummy and back to you. Reward him for fetching it, not just for running up to it.

Briefly and often

Three or four throws and it's over. Your puppy should finish the game eager for more, not exhausted.

Go out onto the grass

When indoor fetch is working, move the exercise to the garden. Throw in short grass so your dog has to use his nose, not just his eyes.