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You’ve mastered “Sit” and “Stay,” but have you mastered this fabulous command?
It’s “Leave it,” and when you utilize it, your friends, family, and neighbors will think you’re Cesar Millan in the flesh. You’ll have the most polite, well-thought-of pooch on the block. And it only takes a few simple steps!
According to the American Kennel Club, “Leave it” is a command that keeps dogs away from the neighborhood cat or the man riding by on his bicycle. It can prevent fights, mishaps, and your dog ingesting things that are either dangerous or not meant for him. It’s all about impulse training, which can result in a happier home life and a better relationship between you and your pet.
The Dog People say they teach the “Leave it” command by grade, starting with Kindergarten and ending with high school. We’ll simply go by steps, using the finer points of their suggestions.
Place one of your dog’s favorite treats under the front of your shoe. Allow them to sniff it, but not to take it. Issue the “Leave it” command and if he does so, offer him a treat from your hand. You will likely need to repeat this exercise frequently.
Place a treat on the floor near your toe and issue the command. If your dog obeys, provide a treat from your hand. If not, crush the treat with your foot.
Drop a treat from several inches off the ground and issue the “Leave it” command as you do so. Again, a treat from your hand is the reward. If he doesn’t obey, revert to step 2.
Place a toy behind your legs and issue the command. Reward with a treat if obeyed. This is another step that will no doubt require several repeats.
Refer back to step 4, but toss the toy a few feet away from you this time. Reward if the command is obeyed.
You might need a second pair of human hands for this exercise. Leave a few treats and/or toys along your favorite walking route. Using the command with each one you encounter, reward with a small treat for each one he leaves.
Begin using “Leave it” as a routine command on all your outside adventures. Remember to keep your pocket full of tiny, tasty treats!
If you visit a dog park or a friend’s yard where there are other dogs off-leash, begin practicing the “Leave it” command the second your dog heads toward a prospective target. If he fails, he must return to you and stay by your side for about a minute.
The rewards of acing this command benefit both you and your dog. Not only do you enjoy less stressful outdoor time, but you also keep your furry friend out of potentially difficult – or even dangerous – situations.
