This is the latest post in a series looking back at the basics of obedience training. Although we have spoken about these topics before, it is always a good idea to review the basics! So let’s get started and review the drop it command.
The command to “drop it” is not usually the first that comes to mind when training your pup. However, you’ll soon realize that it is helpful in many situations! Most dogs love a good chase, and won’t easily give up a pursuit if it is high value. If you simply take the object and toss it aside, they may see this as an invitation to run after it. Instead, using the “drop it” command allows you to get a toy back quickly and easily without having to fight with your dog about it.
After all, tug of war is fun when you want to play but it can be frustrating if you just want to get the ball back during a session of fetch. It could even save your dog’s life when you’re out on a walk, since items like chicken bones or other human foods can be extremely dangerous if ingested. You never know what your dog might pick up from the sidewalk, so here’s how to train your grabby pup to let go of anything–be it toy, treat, or trash.
- First, find a toy that your dog enjoys, but is not extremely high-value to them. You want a toy they will willingly grab, but also are likely to let go of.
- Hold out the toy to your dog and begin playing. After a minute or so, tell your dog, “Drop it” (or just “Drop” if you prefer).
- While still keeping your grip on the toy, allow your arm to go limp. Turn your head away and ignore your dog as well–essentially, you want to completely disengage from play except for the fact that you’ve still got a grip on the toy. Your pup will likely let go when they get bored or confused that you stopped interacting with them.
- As soon as they let go of the toy, turn back to your dog and reward them with praise and a treat (and a clicker, if you use one). Do not immediately return the toy; otherwise, Fido might think that they only need to drop it for a short while before getting the object back. You want to enforce that they are being rewarded for dropping and then ignoring the object.
- After a couple minutes, you can repeat the process and present the toy once again. Practice this command a few times each day while switching out which toy you use. Your dog will pick up on it well with practice.
Once your dog has a good grasp of the command, try it on a leash. While still indoors, attach your dog’s leash and toss the toy in front of them. Give the drop it command and reward them well when they let go. Repeat this form of training until your pup has mastered it as well. Once they have, you can move onto using it on regular walks. Toss a ball or stick on the ground in front of your dog while they’re on a leash. When they go to pick it up, give the drop it command. If you’ve reinforced the command well enough during your indoor training sessions, your pup should be quick to let go of the item so that they can receive the even tastier treat you give them as a reward!
Call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training for more information on puppy training and canine obedience classes in Sarasota and Bradenton.
