What Is the Best Way to Teach a Puppy to Leave It?

Puppies are little explorers, sniffing and mouthing everything from socks to stray twigs. While their curiosity is adorable, it can lead to trouble—think choking hazards or toxic snacks. Teaching a solid “leave it” command is your best defense, redirecting their focus to you and away from danger. It’s easier than prying forbidden items from their jaws and builds lifelong impulse control. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it happen.

Why “Leave It” Is a Must-Have Skill for Your Puppy

Puppies investigate the world with their mouths, which can mean trouble if they grab electrical cords, dropped pills, or street litter like chicken bones. A reliable “leave it” cue stops them in their tracks, preventing health risks like choking or poisoning. It’s also a foundation for good manners, helping during walks or playtime. Pair it with a “drop it” command for backup if they’ve already snatched something, and you’ve got a safety net for most scenarios.

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching “Leave It” Like a Pro

This method uses positive reinforcement to make “leave it” a rewarding game for your puppy. You’ll need two types of treats: “boring” ones (like plain kibble) and “high-value” ones (think freeze-dried liver or tiny cheese bits). Spread these steps over multiple short sessions—5-10 minutes each—to keep your pup engaged.

Step 1: Introduce the Boring Treat

Place a dull treat under your shoe where your puppy can see and smell it but can’t grab it. They’ll likely paw or nibble at your foot. Stay still and silent. The moment they pause or look away, mark the behavior (say “yes” or use a clicker) and reward with a high-value treat from your pocket. This teaches them that ignoring the boring treat earns something better.

Step 2: Reinforce the Look-Away

Pick up the boring treat, show it to your puppy, and place it back under your shoe. They’ll probably try digging again. Wait for them to look away or back off, then mark and reward with a high-value treat. Repeat until they consistently turn away from the treat under your shoe.

Step 3: Up the Challenge

Now, let the treat peek out from under your toe, but be ready to cover it if they lunge. If they look away or hesitate, mark and reward. If they struggle, go back to Step 2 for a few more tries. Patience here builds a stronger cue.

Step 4: Add the “Leave It” Command

Once your puppy reliably ignores the treat, say “leave it” in a calm tone as they back away. Mark and reward the moment they respond. After 15-20 repetitions across sessions, they’ll start linking the phrase to the action of looking away.

Step 5: Make It Dynamic

Toss or slide the boring treat across the floor and say “leave it.” If your puppy ignores it, mark and reward. This mimics real-world scenarios where temptations move, like a leaf blowing by on a walk.

Step 6: Test on a Leash

With your puppy leashed, walk past a boring treat on the floor. Say “leave it” as you approach. If they ignore it, praise and reward generously. Practice in different rooms or your yard. If they don’t respond, revisit Step 5.

Step 7: Generalize to Real-World Items

Gradually introduce mildly interesting items like a sock or crumpled paper. Say “leave it,” and reward when they comply. Slowly work up to tougher distractions (e.g., a stick outside). Always reward with high-value treats or play to keep it fun.

Step 8: Tackle High-Stakes Scenarios

On walks, use “leave it” for low-risk items like leaves or trash. With practice, your puppy will reflexively look to you when they hear the cue, even around tempting stuff like food scraps. Always carry high-value rewards to reinforce this.

Pro Tips for “Leave It” Success

• Stay Calm: Use a neutral tone for “leave it.” Yelling can stress your puppy and make them fixate on the forbidden item.

• Gradual Progression: Don’t jump to high-value distractions like steak scraps too soon. Start with boring items to build confidence.

• Mix Up Rewards: Treats are great, but squeaky toys or a quick game of tug can be just as motivating for some pups.

• Keep It Fun: Frame training as a game. Short, upbeat sessions prevent frustration for both of you.

• Protect Against Risks: Pair “leave it” with year-round parasite prevention (like Interceptor® Plus) since outdoor hazards like feces can carry worms.

Common Questions About Teaching “Leave It”

How long does it take to teach “leave it”?
Most puppies grasp the basics in a few weeks with daily 5-minute sessions. Full reliability in distracting environments can take a couple of months.

What if my puppy keeps grabbing the item?
Go back a step and use a less tempting treat or cover it more securely. Consistency and patience are key.

Can “leave it” work for non-food items?
Yes! Once mastered with treats, practice with toys, tissues, or anything your puppy finds intriguing.

What if my puppy ignores “leave it” outside?
Practice in controlled settings first, like your home or yard, before expecting success on busy walks. Increase distractions gradually.

Why This Method Works

This approach taps into your puppy’s love for rewards, making “leave it” a positive choice rather than a punishment. By starting simple and scaling up, you’re setting them up for success. With time, “leave it” becomes second nature, keeping your pup safe from hazards and making walks stress-free. Plus, it’s a bonding experience—your puppy learns to trust you as the source of all things awesome. Stick with it, keep it playful, and you’ll have a well-mannered companion who knows when to say “no thanks” to trouble.