A new trick

December 28 /09

Hey everyone. I taught my parents a new trick.
They toss a ball at me and I bounce it off my nose and they catch it. Then they toss it back and I hit it again. We send the ball back and forth until they can't catch it or they throw wrong.
It makes them laugh and give me cookies. So you may want to try it with your parents.

How to play
Make sure to use a soft ball so you don't hurt your snooter.
Sit close to the pitcher so the throws are fast and tight.

Don't bonk the ball too hard. That sends them running after it laughing and squealing, and they could lose interest. Only do that when you don't want to play anymore - like when the game is cutting into your walk time, like here:

Ooops ... hey, what d'ya know? It's time for my walk ...
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If they toss the ball too far, go after it but don't bring it back. Eventually they'll learn to throw properly.
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... Ooookay .... bye.

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Here's a demonstration of a well-trained mom. Notice I had to bonk her on the nose to keep her alert.

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End the game when they stop paying attention.

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What's with all that "good boy" stuff? I'm just letting her think I'm performing a cute trick, when really, SHE is ... good girl, Mama !

When they've improved their game, take it outside to a bigger playing field. If they play well, reward them tail wags and continue the game. If they don't, ignore it and walk away.

And remember, play ONLY for treats. Otherwise, don't play. They'll catch on.

Have fun!

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