This exercise is valuable in that you can use the command any time Fluffy is getting close to a Forbidden Thing. Choose a very premium item like cooked chicken, a used tissue, (dogs love them!), or a stinky sock. Whatever your dog gets into most. Have him "Down" in front of you.
Now place the Forbidden Object just in front of his paws with one hand over it. When he shows interest in the object, say “Leave It” and move his snout to the side with the non-covering hand. Give him a different treat from the object one, keeping his nose off to the side. Praise the “Good Leave It!”Slowly remove your hand from the Object. If he goes for it, continue to move his snout, say "Leave It", treat him and praise. What we are looking for here is for him to eye the Object and then turn his head voluntarily. That will show he’s getting it.
Now throw away the Object. The whole purpose of this exercise is to reinforce the idea that when you say "Leave It" you mean forever. He can’t ever think he’ll get the thing.
Don’t spend more than 10 minutes at any one time on this exercise. Practice saying “Leave It” any time Fluffy looks like he’s getting into something he shouldn’t, especially on your walks. He should not be investigating smells, food or wild critters when his attention should be on you. Simply say “Leave It!” and move along, praising the Good Leave It.
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