Day 9 – Catch

Today’s trick is Catch, one of the AKC’s Intermediate tricks. For the title, your dog can catch a variety of objects—a soft toy, ball, or treat—in their mouth. This trick is another great crowd-pleaser, and for some dogs, it seems to come naturally. Others (like my Phi) might need some extra help; Phi was just as likely to let a treat bounce off her forehead as catch it!

If your dog needs to learn how to catch, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with these easy steps.

 

 

 

Steps to Teach Catch

  1. Start Close
    Begin by standing very close to your dog—maybe even really close. Start by gently dropping a treat from just a foot or two above their head, aiming directly for their mouth.
  2. Add a Little Distance
    Once your dog starts to catch reliably from a short drop, gradually increase the challenge. Toss the treat gently upward and slightly forward so it’s easy for them to track and catch.

 

 

  1. Add a Cue Word
    Before tossing, say your chosen cue (e.g., “Catch”) in a clear and upbeat tone. Pairing the cue with the toss helps your dog associate the word with the action.
  2. Mark for Success
    Use your marker word (or clicker) the moment your dog successfully catches the object. If they’re close but not quite catching, you can mark for good approximations (e.g., moving toward the treat or attempting to close their mouth). Follow up with a reward, even if they miss—building confidence is key!
  3. Go Slowly
    Once your dog reliably catches from short distances, start to increase the distance gradually. The goal is to build their confidence and skill step by step.

 

 

Tips for Success

  • Start with Easy Objects: Soft treats, like cheese cubes or small pieces of chicken, are easier for many dogs to catch than hard treats or toys.
  • Timing Matters: Toss the treat when your dog is focused and ready to catch. Avoid surprises!
  • Practice Patience: Some dogs take longer to coordinate their movements. Keep sessions short and positive, and celebrate small wins.
  • Switch It Up: Once your dog is confidently catching treats, challenge them by tossing a soft toy or ball to keep things fun and engaging.

We can’t wait to see your dogs in action! Catch is one of those tricks that’s just as fun to train as it is to show off. Share your progress in the Facebook group, and don’t hesitate to ask for tips or feedback if your dog needs a little extra encouragement.

See you tomorrow for our next trick!