The Catapult Game

Again, easy to learn and easy to play --- indoors or out. Get yourself a catapult (you can get one from any angler/fishing tackle shop) for just a few quid.

To teach the game, first get the dog's attention by letting him sniff the treat. Let him clearly see you put the treat in the pouch of the catapult and then, very gently, flirt the treat just about 1 metre for him to see and retrieve easily.  Repeat several times and then gradually increase the distance.

Once he gets used to the game just watch how alert your dog becomes and how he now relies on his eyesight to spot the treat in flight and also his hearing (should he  loose sight of the projectile) --- just watch him respond with excitement every time you get the catapult out.

The game also should give you early warning indications if the dog's eyesight or hearing should begin to fail.