Teaching 'Leave It'

Mastering the “Leave It” Command: Teaching Your Dog Self-Control

The “leave it” command is one of the most valuable skills you can teach your dog. From preventing them from grabbing dangerous objects on a walk to curbing their curiosity about household items, “leave it” gives your dog a powerful tool for self-control and safety. This command isn’t just practical; it’s also a fantastic way to strengthen your bond as you build mutual trust and respect.

Ready to give your dog a skill that’s as empowering as it is useful? Let’s dive in!

How to Teach the “Leave It” Command

Training “leave it” is simple with the right approach - and learning it can be a fun game for your dog! Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.

Step 1: Start with a Treat in Your Hand

1. Hold a Treat in Your Closed Hand: Begin with at least two different types of treats. Hold the lower-value treat in your closed hand, or use a treat on the floor with your hand covering it (you may need to show it to him first.) Keep your higher-value treats in your treat pouch or closed in your other hand, behind your back.

2. Let Them Check It Out: Allow your dog to sniff, lick, or nudge your hand. Most dogs will try to investigate to get the treat. Calmly wait and don’t say anything - keep that treat covered. Be patient!

3. Wait for Them to Lose Interest: As soon as your dog stops trying to get the treat, say “Yes!” or click with a clicker, and immediately give them a treat from your other hand. This shows them that ignoring your closed hand gets them a reward.

4. Repeat: Practice this until your dog stops trying to get the treat as soon as they see your closed hand. Let them connect the dots of "ignoring that thing gets me a better thing."

Step 2: Introduce the “Leave It” Cue

1. Say “Leave It” as They Ignore the Treat: Once they are reliably seeing and ignoring that treat in the closed hand, we're going to add the verbal cue “leave it” as you are presenting the closed hand. As before, as soon as they leave it give a happy "Yes!" and reward them with a treat from your other hand.

2. Increase the Difficulty: When your dog reliably disengages after hearing “leave it,” try opening your hand slightly. If they move toward the treat, close your hand again. Repeat until they can resist an open hand when you say “leave it.”

3. Move to the Floor: Once your dog has mastered “leave it” with your hand, try placing the treat on the floor. Cover it with your hand, then gradually lift your hand once they understand the command.

Step 3: Generalize the Command to Other Situations

1. Use Different Objects: Practice “leave it” with toys, food bowls, or everyday items. This helps your dog generalize the command, so they understand it applies to more than just treats.

2. Practice in Real-Life Scenarios: Try using “leave it” on walks or when new objects come into your dog’s environment. Be consistent and reward them each time they follow the command, even if you have to remind them a few times initially.

3. Gradually progress to not covering the item, but be ready to cover it quickly in case he tries to go for it! Use the command with other objects, such as food wrappers or dropped low-value treats, using a leash to limit access (if using a leash, either work outside or get them used to wearing a drag leash in the house.) For example, leave a plate of something boring (like a few crackers) out in the backyard. Then go get him and walk him on leash casually by the item - but not allowing him to get close enough to access it. He might lean towards it and try to sniff, or give some demand barks, but just calmly say “leave it” and be patient - as soon as he backs up or turns away, mark “yes!” then reward with a yummy treat and continue to walk away from the item, praising him as you walk away.
4. Don’t forget, when he does leave it, let him know he did a great job with a "yes" and a reinforcing reward like a treat or pets/praise, or just some praise. The more you make 'leaving it' a better choice, the more this will stick!

Tips for Success with “Leave It”

• Keep Training Sessions Short: A few minutes per session is often enough, especially at first.
• Use High-Value Treats for Reinforcement: Reinforcing “leave it” with tasty rewards helps keep your dog motivated, especially in the early stages.
• Be Patient and Consistent: Dogs learn best through repetition and consistent practice, so stick with it, even if progress seems slow.

Putting “Leave It” to Use

Once your dog has a solid “leave it” foundation, you can use it in various situations to keep them safe and focused. Whether they’re tempted by a piece of food on the ground or curious about a new object, a quick “leave it” helps them make safe choices. As with any learned skill, practice with your pup on occasion so that it isn't forgotten!