Build a nose-driven roll before adding a name. Chasing the ball is a different response.
Choose the setup
Use an appropriate intact toy without swallowable parts. Blue Cross recommends checking toys and keeping play voluntary.
Begin at the bowl
The AKC's ball-roll exercise starts on carpet to limit runaway chasing. Let your dog watch a treat go into their bowl, then place the soccer ball over it. Allow investigation. You can demonstrate moving the ball aside before replacing it.
Transfer the roll to the floor
Once moving it from the bowl is established, place the ball on the carpet with a treat underneath. When pushing consistently earns access, stop hiding food beneath it and reward from your hand after the roll instead.
Name the action
Add your chosen game name and reward a nose push. This lesson stops at rolling, before the guide's optional goal-net extension.
Keep rewards timely
Battersea stresses prompt rewards for the intended action. Identify the actual roll rather than rewarding later wandering.
Finish while your dog is interested; never force play. Our hand-target guide covers a separate nose-contact task.
