If you’ve ever stepped on a squeaky toy in the middle of the night, you know the importance of keeping things tidy. Dogs might not care about clutter, but with the right training, they can learn to pitch in. Teaching your dog to “clean up” is not only helpful, it’s also a fun mental workout for them.
Here’s a personal, simple approach to getting your dog to put their toys away, one step at a time.
Step 1: Pick a Designated Toy Box
Before anything else, you’ll need a consistent location where the toys go. A low, open bin or basket works well. Make sure your dog can easily reach into it. This step helps them associate a specific spot with where the toys belong.
Consistency is key. Avoid moving the box around during training.
Step 2: Teach the “Drop It” Command
If your dog doesn’t already know “drop it,” this is a great place to start. Grab one of their favorite toys, play for a moment, then offer a treat while gently encouraging them to release the toy into your hand. When they do, say “drop it” and reward with a treat or praise.
Repeat this a few times each day until they begin to understand that “drop it” means releasing the toy.
Step 3: Add the Basket into the Mix
Now, hold the toy above the basket and give the “drop it” cue. If the toy lands inside, celebrate! Cheer them on like they just won a gold medal. Enthusiasm matters, it shows them they did something good.
At first, your dog might miss the basket or look confused. That’s okay. If needed, guide the toy into the basket yourself and reward them anyway. You’re reinforcing the idea, not perfection.
Step 4: Introduce the Cue “Clean Up”
Once your dog starts consistently dropping toys into the basket, add the phrase “clean up” before you hand them the toy. The goal is for them to begin associating that phrase with the entire routine of picking up and putting the toy away.
Practice this several times in a row, using different toys. Short, upbeat sessions work best.
Step 5: Build Toward Independence
Gradually, start handing your dog toys from a small pile near the basket. Then try pointing to a toy on the floor and saying “clean up.” With time and repetition, they’ll start picking up the toys themselves and heading toward the basket without help.
Remember, patience is part of the process. Some dogs get it right away; others take longer. But they’re always learning, especially when it’s fun.
In the end, teaching your dog to clean up their toys won’t just save you from the daily clutter, it gives them a chance to show off how clever they really are. And honestly, who wouldn’t smile watching their pup proudly put away a stuffed giraffe?
