How to Train a Dog to "Leave It"

Even your best friend and loyal companion can cause problems sometimes. This happens with the desire to chew on everything, from slippers, to furniture to your bed sheets. Make sure that you have good communication with your dog, so that they know what to leave and know what to take. You can do this by training them how to "leave it."

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set a time for training. While you can sometimes catch your dog in the act of playing with something they are not supposed to, it is better to have training time where you both can work on establishing communication. Make a habit of working with your dog at least every other day so that you can let him know what "leave it" means.

2. Show your dog something that she likes to play with. When she chews on something, tell her to "leave it." Do this in a low voice so she knows that you mean business and that what she is playing with is not something that she should be.

3. Show him what you mean. Reinforce your "leave it voice" with taking your dog away from the piece he is chewing on. By showing him and moving him away from what he is doing, it will reinforce what you are saying.

4. Show her the opposite way of doing things. If your dog goes up to the toy, slipper or other item and does not start chewing on it, reward her. You can use a dog snack to tell her that she did good. Reinforce this more by saying "good leave it" in a high pitched voice so she knows she did something right.

Tips & Warnings

• Use positive reinforcement. While you will need to stop your dog from the act of doing something he is not supposed to, make sure that the rewards for your dog are always in place.
• Expect the training to take time. It will usually take between 100 to 500 times for your dog to understand what you mean when you say "leave it." You will want to be repetitive and consistent in order to keep the communication open.
• Never hit or punish your dog. A simple change in voice to a low pitch and showing him the opposite way of doing things will ensure that he won't be afraid of you or what you are saying, while learning how to abide by your rules.