How to Train a Doberman to Play Fetch

Dobermans are not retrievers naturally, but they love to play. Teaching them to fetch is usually not too difficult, as long as you take the time to help them understand how the game works. Your playful, high-energy Doberman may think chasing the toy or ball and grabbing it is great fun, but may not be quite as motivated to return it to you and release it! 

Dobermans are active, muscular dogs that need physical activity to stay in shape and maintain good muscle tone.  They also have active minds that benefit from learning games and being engaged with their “people”.  Playing fetch is a great way to exercise your Doberman-- after all, you get to stand in one place while he does all the running!  

Teaching 'fetch' to some dogs is just a matter of finding the right toy to motivate them. With others, you may need to teach them the entire sequence of chase, grab, return and release before they get the hang of the fetch game, but most dogs love to play fetch once you teach them, so it is well worth the time even if your pup is a bit slow to catch on.

A successful game of fetch involves your dog running after a thrown or tossed object, grabbing it in his mouth, returning it to you, and releasing the item so you can throw it again. Most dogs, including Dobermans, pick up on the chasing pretty easily. The returning and releasing do not always come quite as naturally, however. There are several methods to help your dog cooperate with the second half of the game. Having two of whatever you are fetching can be helpful so that your dog understands that he can release the first toy, as a second one is being thrown for him, alleviating his fear that you are going to end the game or take his treasured possession forever!

Your Doberman can learn to fetch a ball, a disc, a toy, or a stick, just make sure whatever toy you use does not have sharp edges (objects like human frisbees can hurt a dog's mouth), and that your fetch item is the right size (you don't want your Doberman to swallow a ball or toy). You also want to use a toy that will stand up to being thrown and carried around in your Doberman’s mouth--in other words, something that takes a licking and keeps on ticking! There are lots of options available at pet supply stores. Treats or peanut butter can be used to get your dog interested in fetching the item, or releasing it to you, if need be.