Aside from the 7 essential commands I believe all dogs
should know there is another command that can be useful or even lifesaving.
“Leave-it” means that under no circumstances should your dog
approach whatever it is that he has his attention on.“Leave-it” can be used to ask your dog to ignore food or
other things on the ground as well as in situations such as when there is a cat
or squirrel.“Leave-it” asks your
dog to control his impulses, putting you in the leader position.
You’ll notice I say to click!, praise and reward.I use a clicker to teach dogs new
things.If you use a clicker in
your training you may find that dogs learn faster.It is also fine if you don’t use a clicker and instead use
only praise and reward.Another
option, which offers the same benefits as a clicker is to choose a word such as
“yes” or “good” to say at the exact moment the dog does what you want to let
him know he did it right.
Step 1- Place a treat on the ground, guarding it with your
hand if necessary.Say “leave-it”
in a stern and commanding voice.The second the dog looks away from the treat click!, praise and reward
using a very high value food reward that your dog will like.Practice 10 repetitions per
session.Try to have several short
sessions during the day when you can.
Step 2- You are ready for step 2 when you no longer have to
guard the treat with your hand.Place a treat on the ground and say “Leave-it” in a commanding
voice.As soon as she looks
at you, start to back up and use a high pitched voice if necessary to encourage
your dog to leave the item and come to you.As soon as she starts to come click!, treat and reward using
a high value food reward.Practice 10 repetitions per session.
Note:It may be
a good idea to have your dog on-leash when you practice just to avoid her
accidently rewarding herself with the forbidden treat.
Step 3- Begin using “leave-it” in your every day
routine.If your dog looks at
something she shouldn’t have, say “leave-it” in a commanding voice.As soon as she looks at you click,
praise and reward using a high value food reward.
