- Reason most people fail at teaching retrieve, which becomes “catch me if you can”, is that they did not first teach “drop it”.
- This can be another life saver cue, just like “leave it”. If your dog picks up something dangerous or poisonous, drop it can save their life!
- Get a ball or toy the dog likes to play with, but don’t throw it. Just wave it in front of the dog and then let them take it in their mouth, or drop it right in front of them and let them pick it up in their mouth.
- As soon as the dog takes the object in their mouth, waive a good smelling treat under their nose and say “drop it”. Repeat as necessary until the dog drops the object.
- As soon as the dog drops it, click and treat, picking up the object immediately.
- Be sure to pick up the object right away after treating the dog. This way they will learn that “drop it” means “release it to me”, and will avoid their turning it into the “catch me if you can” game…
The advice and tips provided in this dog training blog post are based on general best practices and personal experiences. Please consult a professional dog trainer or veterinarian for specific issues or before starting any new training regimen with your dog.
About the Author: Rusty
Rusty is a seasoned canine with a wealth of experience in dog training and behavior. With years of playful practice and a knack for turning training into a fun adventure, Rusty shares tips and advice to help every pup and owner build a stronger bond.
