I break it down into different parts. First I teach "take it". Put the ball in her mouth, tell her to "take it", take it out and immediately treat her. Continue by increasing the time she is holding it before you take it from her. I ask mine to "give it" when I take it from them, and treat for that as well.
Next, I teach picking it up off the ground right in from of them. Put it on the ground right in front of her, ask her to "take it". If she isn't ready yet, go back to taking it from your hand. Again, lots of treats when she picks it up!!! Again, you add the "give it" when you take it from her and give MORE treats!
Finally, you add the throw... tell her to "take it", then call her back to you and tell her to "give it", starting VERY CLOSE and gradually increasing the distance you throw it. I start with them on leash so they can't grab it and run off with it!!
It works really well, especially with dogs that are not natural retrievers.
Good luck!

Toto, CD, RN, CGC answered on 10/8/10. Helpful? / 1