Building Speed for the Dumbbell Retrieve

Commonly called switching or value transfer this game is a great way to keep the dumbbell retrieve exciting and in turn creates a faster retrieve. My dogs love playing this game! First you need to teach your dog that it is okay to let go of the dumbbell when you give them their cue word to let go. Once that is established, they can only let go when you cue it. You can mix in both fun and formal dumbbell retrieves so that your dog never knows which is going to happen.

This element of surprise keeps your retrieve fun, fresh and faster. If your dog is not toy motivated, you can use food instead. Teach this game only if you have a dedicated pick up and retrieve,it is not for the dog just learning a retrieve.
Have fun!