Training a Dog Carrying and Retrieving
Carrying, and retrieving do not have to be associated entirely with a dog's adult life, or with Obedience Trials. Even a young puppy can be taught to hold and carry if you place something in her mouth and encourage her with "Take it to so-and-so!" Carrying from one person to another thus becomes a game, and with it, comes a chance to show off.
Make a game of retrieving objects, both in the house and out-of-doors. Concentrate on getting your dog excited so she will chase things, then just before she reaches the object, give the retrieve command ONCE. While she is picking up the object, say "Good Girl!" and say it as though you meant it.
Praise will encourage a dog to take things from the floor or the ground when she might otherwise refuse. These early attempts at carrying will teach your dog, with a minimum of effort, the basic steps of the RETRIEVE exercise, one of the most difficult in advanced training. If your dog is a natural retriever, take advantage!
