Last Updated on March 18, 2022 by ellen
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Have you ever gone to the park and seen other dogs do this and wondered how to get started? Teaching your dog to catch a frisbee isn’t as difficult as you’d imagine, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours outside together in the summer.
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How to Teach Your Dog to Catch a Frisbee
All it takes is a few simple tips and some patience on your part. Soon your dog will have learned a new skill that you can both enjoy together.
The first step is to be certain that your dog already knows how to fetch a ball or something similar. If they haven’t mastered a simple fetch command, you’ll want to start with that before you try to teach them to catch a frisbee.
Despite what you might think, having your dog catch a real “human” Frisbee is not the best thing to do. Frisbees made for people to throw back and forth can damage your dog’s mouth.
Instead, look for a Frisbie made for dogs. They’re designed not to damage your dog’s mouth. This one comes highly recommended. I would recommend starting with two. They have firm frisbees and soft fabric style frisbees.
Teach your dog to catch a frisbee
Get your dog interested in the new Frisbie. A great way to do this is by placing his favorite treats on top of the frisbee for a week or two. That way, each time he sees the frisbee, he will associate it with a treat.
GENTLY play tug with your dog and the frisbee and always let them win. Reward him with a treat when he shows interest in getting the frisbee. Never command him to drop or let go of the frisbee. Always use the second frisbee to entice him to let go of the first one.
Start slowly by rolling the frisbee past your dog. Some dogs find it easier to chase and fetch something when it’s rolling rather than when it’s flying through the air. Don’t rush your dog. Some dogs will pick up new skills quicker than others. Always reward your dog for expressing interest in the frisbee.
Begin by tossing the frisbee short distances to your dog. Be very careful that you never throw the frisbee AT your dog and avoid hitting them at all costs. It can take hundreds of throws before your dog masters catching the frisbee out of the air. Be patient.
Continue engaging your dog with the frisbee, moving on to a slightly further distance each time they master a new skill. If you have patience and continue trying, they will eventually learn to catch it.
More dog training articles
Check out these tips for training your dog.
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.
Funny. I never thought about the fact you might have to train a dog to catch a frisbee. I thought they would all just WANT to and that would be that. As I reflect on some of the dogs I know though, they probably wouldn’t initially love the idea so it’s nice to know the steps
Very true, Shelley, and some get it better than others!
I never knew there were special dog frisbies you were supposed to start with. I just assumed people used regular frisbies. I don’t often see the little toy breeds I like, catching them though. I do like terriers so I’m sure they could be trained. Seems like it would be fun and great exercise for all.
It definitely is great exercise for everyone!