Pawsitive Dog Training Unleashed

Leave it

Leave it so important in training and one of the first things I work on. To teach leave it, find what motivates your dog. Most dogs are food motivated, but some dogs are more toy motivated. In this example we'll use a treat.

To start, show the dog the treat and hold it in your palm in front of their nose. Close your fist when the dog goes for the treat. You dog will likely sniff, lick, and paw at your hand. As soon as you're dog looses interest, say " Leave it " and reward. Do not use the command " Leave it " while your dog is still interested in the treat until you think they understand the concept of the word.

Once you're dog is able to leave the treat alone in your hand, you can expand your training. Drop the treat on the floor (cover the treat with your hand until they lose interest). Then drop several treat on the floor.

Now, do it all over from the beginning, but outside. Then on a walk, at the park, in the car, etc. Keep in mind, everytime you train in a new environment, you will likely have to start your training from the beginning as your dog is over-stimulated in that new environment and is not used to training there.

Once your dog has truly understood the concept of "Leave it" you can transfer it to ANYTHING you want your dog to leave alone.