Command: “Leave It”
Training Steps:
- Present the Bait: Hold a treat in both hands. Show one closed fist with a treat inside to your dog, and say “Leave it.” Ignore any attempts by your dog to get the treat from your hand.
- Reward for Obedience: Once your dog stops sniffing and licking your fist and makes eye contact with you, say “Good leave it,” and give a treat from the other hand.
- Increase Difficulty: Place treats on the ground and repeat the command. If your dog moves toward the treat, cover it with your hand and repeat “Leave it.”
- Practice with Real Situations: Use this command in real-life situations where your dog needs to avoid food on the ground or inappropriate objects.
Explanation: “Leave It” helps manage your dog’s impulses and can prevent them from picking up dangerous or unwanted items. This command is crucial for keeping your dog safe from harmful objects or toxic foods.
Use Case: Use “Leave It” to prevent your dog from picking up potentially dangerous items during walks, like food waste or small objects that could be swallowed.