Kid Friendly Fetch

Kid-Friendly Fetch

Fetch is a great game for kids and dogs to bond over and enjoy. Parental guidance allows even babies to participate in this game safely. Here are some tips and tricks to begin playing and having fun with your dog and kids of all ages.

Things to consider:

Is your dog “ball crazy?” If so then you will really need to calm your dog down prior to allowing children to engage in the game. You may find using another type of toy to play fetch with may help.

Supervision is a must for kids and dogs in all activities.

Infants and fetch:

While feeding or with a resting baby, you can easily toss a ball for your dog. Some new parents love to play this game with their baby in a baby carrier. This is a great way to include your dog while tending to baby.

In order to play safely, it is best that your dog has a solid “drop it” cue so that you can easily get the ball. It is ideal if your dog backs up a few steps after dropping the ball ,and then sits until you throw the ball. You can also wait until your dog makes eye contact before throwing the ball again.

Fetch with toddlers and older children:

I never have the child “get” the ball from the dog. Here are the steps for success:

Allow the child to stand on a step or stool to elevate them if playing with large dog. This usually helps kids to feel more comfortable.
The dog only brings the ball to the adult.
Once the dog is sitting, the adult hands ball to the child.
Kid throws the ball.
Repeat.

You can play a Kibble Fetch game with your dog:

Fill a bowl with the kibble amount for their meal.
Toss kibble one or several at a time.
When your dog returns to you, have him sit or lie down, make eye contact and then toss again.

This is a fantastic way to burn energy and include your dog while holding your baby.

You can also do a Kibble Catch as a game too. This game requires that your dog “backs up” a bit so that you can toss kibble to them.

Either of these games are terrific for families with infants and babies of any age.