Go Fetch! Finding and Retrieving Tricks Part 5

Getting the paper

Once you’ve taught your dog a cheerful retrieve, he’ll be happy to apply

these skills to improve your life together. So happy, in fact, that as you’re

staying inside, cozy in your pajamas while your best furry friend happily

braves the morning cold to fetch your paper, you may want to be careful

what you wish for! A dog who’s trained to fetch the paper won’t discriminate.

You may end up with 20 newspapers on your stoop and 20 angry neighbors!

Here’s how to get your dog to do your bidding:

1. Fold a section of your newspaper over and tape it securely.

2. Tempt your dog with it, praising any interest.

3. When your dog lights up at the sight of the paper, begin to blend a

known command with a new one, “Paper–Go get it,” and let the dog

take it in his mouth.

4. If your newspaper comes in a plastic bag, place the folded (and worn)

paper in its plastic bag and repeat Steps 1–3.

Now you can take your show outside. The next morning, have a big treat

waiting inside, and then take your dog outside with you on-leash. When

you come across the paper (which should be similar to the one you’ve been

practicing with indoors), act surprised and point to it, saying “Go get it–Fetch

the paper.” When your dog seizes the opportunity, command “Hold” and trot

back to the house. Reward him with the treat and enthusiastic praise.

Concerned your dog will gather all the papers in the neighborhood? He may

if you leave him outside all day! If you notice your dog racing off toward the

neighbor’s drive, put him on a long line and discourage him with a quick tug

and “Nope!”
When your dog carries the paper back for you, you’re ready to start sending

him from the door:

1. Initially, walk within 3 feet of the paper and say “Fetch the paper.”

2. If your dog looks confused, run forward, shake the paper playfully,

run back, and repeat the command.

3. Progressively increase your distance from the paper.

Each time your dog returns the paper to you, make a big fuss!

Whether sending your dog out to get the paper or signaling him to deliver a

message (as in “Fetching a fax: A four-footed delivery option,” coming up),

send him off with a happy point in the direction you want him to go!