When teaching ‘leave it’ there are two very important things. First, ‘leave it’ is forever, don’t let the dog have the thing it was told to leave alone. Second, do not punish the dog for trying to get the forbidden object, instead reward the dog for leaving it alone. Teaching this cue takes a little bit of patience, a forbidden object, and lots of small rewards.
Show your dog the forbidden object, usually a treat, and then close it in your fist so your dog can not get it. Wait patiently until your dog leaves the object alone, even if it is by accident. As soon as your dog leaves the treat alone say ‘good leave it’ and give a treat from your other hand. It is important to use both of your hands so the dog does not think it got the forbidden treat. Do this for two or three repetitions. Now, in a neutral tone of voice say ‘leave it’ and wait until your dog does, then reward saying ‘good leave it’. Resist any urges to discourage your dog from getting the treat, just wait and reinforce what you want to see more of.
The next step is to open your hand holding the treat in your palm. Say ‘leave it’ and reward if your dog leaves it alone. If your dog does not leave it alone close your hand so it is secure. When you can leave the treat in your open palm it is time for the next step.
The next step is to put the treat on the ground. Cover the treat with your hand and say ‘leave it’. Wait until your dog leaves it alone and reward when it does. If your dog masters ‘leave it’ your dog will no longer be interested in the treat. You can make it harder by making the treat more tempting or practicing with moving objects.
