Moving two-ball outside

[jocoyn]

Beau was good outside at bringing the ball back at 12 weeks but at 13 weeks has decided it is more fun to run around the yard with it than bringing it back.

For now I have moved two ball (with squeaky balls) back inside a long carpeted hallway and he still wants to play after about 20 throws when we end the game.

Been awhile since I had a puppy. I always got good fetch out of my dogs but I can't recall how I got past this hump. I *do* squeaky the toy in my hand to lure him back......but the freedome of the yard is a bit much

Suggestions?

[BlackthornGSD]

I think I wouldn't worry about playing ball outside with him right yet. If he'd rather run around outside with it than retrieve, then I think I'd leave the ball inside and either throw a stick or an outside toy and let him do whatever with it.

In addition to non-ball outdoor time, I would move to doing rag/tug work outside, maybe 2-3 times a week--not every day. Or even a ball on a flirt pole. The idea is that when you're doing that, there is no retrieve, just prey work and tug work--and it all involves you.

[jocoyn]

It is tough because he needs to excercise his body and nose but I don't want a lot of pounding on his joints. We managed to get the game outside yesterday and he is hunting nicely for the squeaky ball.

Perhaps it is the West German in him but he seems to be maturing faster than I would expect. Starting to lift leg, etc.

I will have to get a video but he definitely has good hunt drive, especially when you consider his age......I think the thing outside is to end after about 3 throws right now and keep it real fun.

[PaddyD]

I went through the same thing. Too many distractions and too much freedom outside. Plus the fact that he is entering the 'test the limits' phase where he is more into pleasing himself than mommie.

[jocoyn]

I am using his pack drive right now if he does not bring it right back I run in the house.......and he follows.......game ends with some treats but he is very good for three throws outside.....20 in the hallway.

The hunting though. Actually went for about 3 minutes before he found one of them, even maintained focus after a break to poop. So we had a BIG party after that one.