Hey {{first_name}} ,
You know that moment—your dog’s ears perk up, tail wagging, eyes locked on the toy in your hand. You throw it, and they take off like a furry little rocket.
But instead of bringing it back?
They take a victory lap around the yard like it’s the Olympic finals. 😂
We’ve all been there.
But here’s the truth: Fetch isn’t just a game.
It’s one of the most powerful ways to build trust, improve obedience, and make training feel like play—for both of you.
That’s why we created the Best Fetch Trick Challenge: to turn fetch into more than just a back-and-forth.
We’re talking tricks, creativity, and connection.
And you’re invited.
🎯 What Makes This Challenge So Special?
The Best Fetch Trick Challenge is open to all skill levels. Whether you’ve got a seasoned retriever or a total goofball who still thinks “fetch” means “steal and zoom,” this challenge is about:
✔️ Deepening your bond through playful training
✔️ Improving focus, recall, and responsiveness
✔️ Giving your pup mental stimulation and confidence
✔️ Sharing your wins with a community that gets it
No pressure. No perfection required. Just play, progress, and partnership.
🛠️ Top 5 Fetch Tips
Here’s how to set you and your pup up for fetch success—without the frustration:
Nail the basics first. Make sure your dog has a strong grasp on “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “drop it.” (These are your fetch foundations.)
Use the two-toy trick. When your dog brings the first toy halfway back, show them the second one. They’ll drop the first to chase the second—goodbye, keep-away!
Add some flair. Teach a “spin” before the throw or a “high five” after the return. These mini tricks make it feel like a true routine.
Go for distance. Start close, then increase the length of your throws to build stamina and excitement.
Switch up the toys. Some dogs love a squeaker. Others want a soft frisbee. Keep it interesting to keep them engaged.
🤔 Trivia Time!
What’s the best method for stopping your dog from running off with the toy during fetch?
A) Yelling louder; B) Using one toy only; C) Chasing them; D) Using the two-toy method
(Scroll down for the answer!)
🎁 Recommended Tools We Love
🟢 Earth Rated Fly Toy – Lightweight, easy to track, and perfect for mid-air catches.
🔵 Treat Pouch & Clicker – Essential for reinforcing those fetch wins on the fly.
🟡 Two Identical Toys – (Yes, identical. It makes the switcheroo trick so much easier.)
Want us to feature your favorite fetch toy in our next newsletter? Hit reply and let us know what your dog can’t live without!
✨ Not Every Dog Loves Fetch… and That’s Okay
If your pup is more “meh” than motivated when it comes to fetch, try this:
✅ Scented toys – Some dogs engage better when the toy smells interesting.
✅ Play in short bursts – 3–5 minutes of fetch followed by a different game keeps it fresh.
✅ Use tug or chase games as a warmup before fetch.
Every dog is different. The goal is to find what lights them up—and go from there.
🐕 Did You Know?
Dogs don’t instinctively know how to fetch — even retrievers! Fetching is a learned behavior that taps into a dog's prey drive, but the “return it to you” part? That’s taught with positive reinforcement.
👉 In fact, studies show that using two identical toys increases return rates by up to 65% compared to single-toy fetch. It’s not magic—it’s motivation!
🐾 Real Talk from US
“When Willow finally brought her toy all the way back and dropped it at my feet, I didn’t cheer—I cried. It had taken weeks of trial and error. But more than that, it felt like she was saying, ‘I trust you.’
That’s what this challenge is about. It’s not just a trick. It’s a conversation you build one toss at a time.”
😂 Joke of the Day!
Why did the dog sit in the shade during fetch training?
Because he didn’t want to be a hot dog. 🌭🐾
Want to be featured in our next community spotlight?
🎥 Send us a 30–60 second video of your dog’s favorite fetch trick (or funniest fail). Whether they leap, spin, or do a happy dance before the throw—we want to see it.
Your story might just inspire another dog parent to try again tomorrow.
👉 Submit Your Video By Replying to this Email or Join the Challenge Now
📩 Stay in the Pack!
Want more expert dog care tips? Subscribe to our USA Dog Owners Association Newsletter for training advice, health tips, and heartwarming stories.
🌐 Explore More: Check out our blog for in-depth articles & dog-friendly winter activities!
📖 Blog Articles:
✔️ The Secret to Recall Training
✔️ Can Dogs Really See Color? The Truth About Their Vision
✔️ Adopt a Chihuahua Affected by Wildfires!
📲 Follow Us for More Dog Fun!
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🐶 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@USADogOwners
🐾 Loved this article? Share it with a fellow dog lover!
❤️ Before You Go…
You’re doing better than you think.
Your dog doesn’t need you to be perfect.
They just need you to show up, throw the toy, and try again.
We’re here cheering you on—and we can’t wait to see what your dog can do.
Wags & gratitude,
Mark
🐾 USA Dog Owners Association
🐕🦺 Trivia Answer: d) Using the two-toy method It redirects your dog’s focus, keeps the game moving, and turns returning the toy into the most exciting part of the play.