Training Tip “Leave It” Command 

Training Tip: “Leave It” Command 

“Leave it” is a command that can help keep your dog safe when they are extra curious.  The main objective of this command is to teach your pup that they get something even better for ignoring the other item.  Please follow our tips below to teach your dog this command.

  1. Place a treat in both hands.
  2. Show your dog one enclosed fist with the treat inside and say, “leave it”.
  3. Your dog may lick, sniff, paw, or bark to try and obtain the treat.  Ignore these behaviors.
  4. Once your dog stops trying, give them the treat from the other hand.
  5. Repeat until your dog moves away from that first fist when you say, “leave it”.
  6. Next, give your dog the treat only when he looks up at you as he moves away from the first fist.

You are ready to take it to the next step once your dog consistently moves away from the first treat and gives you eye contact when you say the “leave it” command.  This time you will use two different treats – one that is good but not super-appealing and one that is good-smelling and tasty.

  1. Say “leave it” and place the less-attractive treat on the floor and cover it with your hand.
  2. Wait until the dog ignores that treat and looks at you.  You will then remove that treat from the floor while giving them the better treat immediately.
  3. It is now time to place the less-attractive treat on the floor.  Do not completely cover it with your hand.  Instead, you will hold your hand a little bit above the treat.  With time, you will move your hand farther and farther away until your hand is about 6 inches above.

As always, consistency is key.  It is never a good idea to rush the process when it comes to teaching your dog commands.  Know when the time is right to move forward in the training process!