“Leave it” is my favorite command because it can be used for so many different reasons.  When used properly this command can potentially prevent your dog from being injured or getting into trouble.  In my opinion, this command is not only extremely useful, it is also fun to teach and a cool trick to show off your dogs skill.

A few examples of when this command can come in handy:

  • don’t eat the goose poop on the sidewalk
  • let go of your toy so I can throw it again
  • nice try, but you aren’t taking the loaf of freshly baked banana bread off the kitchen counter
  • I see you sniffing the ground and demand you not roll in that stinky pile of fox poo
  • STOP there is a car coming

You get the idea.

Teaching this command is not difficult, but it is extremely important you completely understand the proper way to do it.  If you are confused and unsure, it will not work. No worries, the steps listed below combined with this video will set you up for success.  (insert video link here)

Let’s get started.

Step #1

Make sure you have two different types of treats, one with a higher value than the other. For example: one treat is of higher value because it is something that smells really good to your dog that they don’t typically have access to, while the second one is a lower value treat that is soft, easy to break into small pieces

Step #2

Put one of each type of treat in each hand, then put both hands behind your back.

Step #3

Make a fist with the hand that has the treat of lesser value and present it to your dog.  Let him sniff this treat keeping your fist tightly closed. Keep the hand with the higher value treat behind your back.

Step #4  

Give the command “leave it” – be sure to say leave it with an authoritative voice.

Step #5

AS SOON AS your dog stops sniffing your fist, say “YES” in a positive tone and give the dog one of the higher value treats by placing it on the ground close by

Continue practicing steps 1 through 5 until your dog stops sniffing immediately after you give the leave it command.  Don’t expect immediate results, but don’t give up. You will succeed with practice!

Why am I using treats of higher and lesser value?  You’re teaching your dog that asking him to leave something he wants doesn’t mean he gets nothing, in fact he might get something even better.  Eventually, this command will help teach self control in various situations.

Once you and your pup have mastered steps 1 through 5, it’s time to celebrate and move o to step #6.   Congratulations!

Step #6

Now it’s time to gradually open your fist and make the lesser value treat more enticing/accessible.  Follow the same process in steps 4 and 5 and practice until you’ve mastered this step. IF you experience a failure, no worries, simply go back to previous steps and come back to step 6 when you’re ready.

Step #7

Once you continually see positive results from step #6, it is time to place the lesser value treat uncovered on the ground.  **Be ready to grab the lesser value treat and DO NOT let your dog get that treat after you give the leave it command! This is very tempting and some dogs will lose focus when they see the exposed treat.

Step #8

With continual success from step 7, begin moving the treat closer and closer to your dog.  Once you feel confident with your progress, you can start using higher value treats.

Step #9  

If you really want to get fancy, ask your dog to lay down and place the treat close enough to touch their paw.  If this is working for you, it’s time to practice with various items that your dog seems attracted to: your kids toy, plate with crumbs on it, your shoe.

You’ve done it!  Start using the leave it command on a regular basis and remember to praise your dog when they follow your command.

Next time you witness unwanted behaviour from your dog, try giving the leave it command in a loud clear voice and be sure to give lots of praise when they stop the negative behavior.  

Please comment with your experience using the leave it command. Did it help prevent a potentially bad situation? We love hearing your feedback!