Raising Puppies

Even though you'll teach your puppy to "leave it," there are bound to be times when she's so fast, she'll grab something before you have a chance to get the right words out of your mouth. What if your puppy gets into the hamper and grabs a sock? What if she nabs your child's toy and runs under the bed? Once she has an item in her mouth, it's too late for "Leave it." She already has it. This is where "Drop it" comes in; you want to teach her to spit items out if necessary. To teach a good "Drop it" cue, team it with "Take it."

Step 1:

a) Get an item that your puppy will likely take in her mouth, like a favorite toy. Have some really good treats handy.
b) Give the cue "Fluffy, take it!" (Use a friendly voice!) Offer the item to your puppy. When she takes it, mark "Yes!" You don't have to give her a treat at this time because getting the item itself is a reward.

Step 2:

a) Show your puppy the treat. Give the cue "Drop it!" Don't use a threatening voice for this. You're not trying to scare her, just teach her.
b) Hold