by Alicia Harantshuck

Next to a rock-solid recall, leave-it might be the most important thing we can teach our dogs. It can literally save your dog’s life.

Besides food, there are multiple opportunities to use leave-it. Of course, we combine leave-it with other tools to reach independent goals with our canine companions.

Scout loves scarves and toys.

Here are my nine top practice items:

1. 1. Dangerous objects (knives, scissors, etc.)
   2. Medications
   3. People who are afraid of dogs
   4. Dogs who are afraid of people
   5. Props for trick training
   6. Working impulse control
   7. Barking
   8. Photo ops
   9. Philly chicken wings (I don’t live in the city, but everyone tells me it is a major issue)

   It’s a lot to practice with around one training goal, and maybe you’re thinking you or your dog will get bored. That’s a BIG no from me. Like all training, it should be fun and convenient for today’s busy lifestyle.

   

   Belle rocked the extreme leave-it challenge by leaving her favorite thing alone.

   I work it into everything I do and turn it into tricks. I challenge myself and students with the “Extreme Leave-It Challenge”. I am motivated by what others achieve and by my own dog’s successes. I am also surprised by what they simply can’t leave. Vegas can leave a pile of burgers but struggled with the toaster. Yes, I try all kinds of strange things like glasses, remote controls, books, bowls, and candles, just to name a few.

   

   Vegas can leave these burgers without a problem, but toasters are tough.

   Leave-its do take patience and lots of practice. We have some tips you may have heard already if you’ve attended group classes:

   1. Take it slow and keep it low: I take my time and keep each session to only a few minutes. I also keep things low in the beginning as it eliminates the need for them to jump up and see what it is they need to leave.
   2. Make it fun: Make it a game. Ask friends to write items down they want to see your pup leave. Then randomly pull your leave-it challenge and share on social media.
   3. The 5-n-5 Rule: Practice five times in five different areas. Our pups can generalize, so we need to help them relearn everything in different areas. Remember to practice inside and outside. Be sure to start from the beginning and advance at your dog’s pace. (Credit for the 5-n-5 rule goes to my Philly Unleashed training partner, Jessica Kochmer.)

    

   Now get out there and have fun challenging your dog with unusual leave-its!