Leave It
Teaching your dog the Leave It command is helpful when he/she is getting too close to another dog or person, or when you don’t want your dog eating something he/she shouldn’t.
Process
Have your dog on leash in a down so it is harder for them to move quickly.
Place a treat under your hand about 12 inches away. Hold the leash loosely.
Restrain if your dog lunges for the treat.
Cover the treat with your hand while saying leave it.
Show your dog the treat and say leave it.
When your dog looks away from the treat on the floor, give him/her treat with your other hand.
Tips
- Do not let dog take the treat from the floor.
- Give your dog the treat when he/she is ignoring it
- When your dog responds quickly, reward with a jackpot of several small, very yummy treats.
- Increase the difficulty by playing the “Leave It” game.
The “Leave It” Game:
Once your dog has a basic understanding of leave it, you can play this game. Have your dog on a leash, but standing.
Toss a treat or a toy just out of your dog’s reach.
When your dog goes for the treat, restrain him/her with the leash and say leave it.
When your dog turns back towards you, reward with a small jackpot!