Training to Retrieve Objects! (Part 1)
The Basics
Do you want to train your dog to fetch you things? First your dog should know basic obedience commands (sit, stay, down, come, heel). With this groundwork you can do anything! You can have your dog fetching drinks from the fridge. But first your dog has to learn to retrieve.
Starting with "Take"
To get started you first want to find an object easy for your dog to hold. A paper towel roll, a hat, Domino used an oven mitt. Anything of insignificant value to you, and unfamiliar to your dog. Hold the object in front of your dog. At first reward for any interaction, if they sniff it, give them praise. This can build up to them putting their mouth on it, and eventually the next command, "Hold." When your dog takes the object in their mouth, say "Take" and give them a treat.
If your dog is just not taking it, try moving it around a little like a toy. You want to be careful that your dog knows this is training, not playtime. But you can make the object more exciting by waving it around quickly, throwing it and catching it, or rubbing the scent of a treat on it. Once your dog shows any interaction, praise them. This may be all you get the first day. Remain consistent, training a few times a day in short intervals. Your dogs attention span is probably 10 minutes at max.
Moving on to "Hold"
Once your dog consistently takes the object, try to see how long you can get them to hold it. You'll want to start by praising even a second long hold, and saying "hold." If your dog is dropping the object quickly, they may be anticipating a treat. You might need to train with only verbal praise for this command.
If they are still not getting it, see if you can try with a toy first, and then move back to your object. Offer the toy and say "take" when they take it, repeat "hold" and give praise as they are holding it. When you take it back from your dog say "Give."
Training "Give"
You will need to switch back to your chosen object to train give, especially if your dog is resistant to giving up their toys. They should be much more willing to give the object that is not a toy. First, take it from them gently, say "Give" as you take it, then offer a treat. You want to avoid ripping it out of your dogs mouth. Wait until they are willing to give it to you calmly. Praise highly for a calm give.
Putting it All Together
Once you have trained all three commands, your dog should be able to "Take," "Hold," and "Give," the object. Stick with this training slowly and consistently until it becomes natural for your dog. The next step will be having them take objects off the floor. Make sure you pick up your training object and keep it away until training time.
Have fun with your dog!