Teaching your dog the “leave it” cue is an essential part of their training and a great way to start building solid impulse control. Whether it's food on the ground or a tempting toy, mastering “leave it” can help your dog stay safe, focused, and better behaved. Here’s a step-by-step guide for dog training that leaves it cue using simple tools and techniques.
Before you begin, gather some high-value treats and a couple of “test” items. You’ll need:
One low-value item (like a small piece of broccoli, spinach, or lettuce)
One mid-value item (such as a piece of bread, cracker, or tortilla)
These items will be used to help your dog learn what to ignore and when to earn a reward.
This step helps your dog learn to disengage from something tempting.
Start with the low-value item.
Hold it in a closed fist near your dog’s nose.
Place treats behind your back in the other hand.
Hold steady. Brace your hand against your leg if needed to avoid movement.
Wait it out. Your dog may sniff, lick, or even paw at your hand. Don’t react—just wait.
Watch for disengagement. As soon as your dog looks or moves away, immediately reward with a high-value treat from your hidden hand.
Repeat until your dog constantly looks away from the item.
Tip: If your dog remains too focused on the item, try using something even less interesting.
As your dog gets better at this game, try opening your hand briefly to re-engage their interest and challenge their impulse control.
Once your dog is reliably looking away, it’s time to add your verbal command.
Say “Leave It” (or your chosen cue like “Not for you” or “Ick”) the moment your dog looks away.
Keep your tone calm and kind. Try recording yourself does your cue sound friendly or harsh? Many of us say "leave it" more sharply than intended.
Gradually move the cue earlier, saying it just before your dog looks away or right when presenting the item.
This helps your pup associate the cue with the behavior, laying the foundation for long-term understanding.
Now it’s time to practice in real-world scenarios.
Lower the item closer to the floor in your open palm.
Place it on the ground, covering it with your hand.
Gradually remove your hand, then stand up, and eventually move further away.
Challenge your dog by increasing the value of the item, dropping or tossing it, and practicing in different environments.
Proofing ensures your dog can respond reliably, even in distracting or tempting situations.
Teaching dogs impulse control takes patience and practice but you don’t have to do it alone. If your dog is struggling with the “leave it” cue, our team is here to help.
We’re happy to support you and your pup on this journey!
Our team of certified trainers and behaviorists brings over 50 years of combined experience, and every expert is personally vetted, Fear Free certified, and deeply committed to helping dogs (and their people) thrive at home. Need help with your pup? Talk to a dog expert today
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