She is used to bringing it that far because you would 'go the rest of the way' with your cane (by reaching for it). How did you get her to bring it to you in the beginning? Is that what you have been trying? Even tiny bits of hot dog or chicken (less fat) might entice her to bring it the rest of the way to you. (Just a little - she is a small dog) Once she gets the idea, she should continue! Old (not that 2 1/2 is old) dogs can learn new tricks - it just takes longer!