Teaching your dog to “leave it” can feel like a magic trick. You say two words, and your dog turns away from whatever delicious, gross, or potentially dangerous thing they were fixated on. It’s one of those simple commands that can prevent trouble and make life easier for both of you. Whether it’s a dropped chicken bone on a walk or a cat toy that’s not meant to be chewed, “leave it” tells your dog: not that.
Let’s walk through how to teach this, even when temptation is strong.
Start in a Quiet Spot
Before expecting your dog to walk away from pizza crust on the sidewalk, start where there are no distractions. You’ll need:
- Small, dull-tasting treats (for the “bait”)
- High-value treats (for the reward)
- Patience and consistency
Sit on the floor with your dog, treats in hand. Show the bait treat in your closed fist. Naturally, your dog will sniff, paw, lick, and try to get it. Quietly wait it out.
The moment they back off, mark the behavior with a cheerful “yes!” or a click (if you use a clicker), and reward them with the better treat from your other hand.
The goal is for your dog to learn that ignoring the treat gets them something better.
Add the Words “Leave It”
Once your dog consistently stops trying to get the treat and waits patiently, introduce the cue. Say “leave it” just before showing them the bait. Wait for them to pull back, then mark and reward with the good treat.
Don’t repeat the cue. Say it once and let them figure it out. Repeating “leave it, leave it, leave it…” teaches your dog they don’t have to listen right away.
Practice with Movement
Once they’ve mastered the basic version, raise the difficulty a little. Place the bait treat on the floor and cover it with your hand. Then with your foot. Eventually, you’ll remove the cover entirely, but only if your dog has proven they can resist.
Repeat the cue, reward the correct response, and always set them up to succeed.
Take It Outside
Only after your dog reliably leaves treats alone indoors should you practice outside. The real world has smells, sounds, and real temptations, like fast food wrappers or another dog’s toy. Keep your dog on a leash and go slow.
Reward generously when they get it right. Sometimes, praise and affection are just as powerful as treats.
Why It’s Worth It
The “leave it” command could save your dog’s life. It could also spare you from expensive vet visits or the heartbreak of a toxic ingestion. But beyond that, it builds trust. It teaches your dog that listening to you, even when something smells really good, is always the better choice.
And that’s a skill worth teaching.
