Teaching the “Drop” Command | Dog Training Tips, by Wild Child Dog Training on YouTube. 4 min 39 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 39 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Pick a quiet room with no other pets or people. Have small treats ready in your pocket or pouch before you start.
Offer your dog a toy it likes and let it take the toy in its mouth. Keep the session short and calm.
Hold a treat close to your dog's nose so it can smell it. Most dogs will open their mouth and let go of the toy to get the food.
The moment the toy leaves its mouth, say drop in a calm, clear voice and give the treat right away.
Repeat this swap several times in a row. Say drop only once, at the moment the object is released, so the word stays linked to the action.
Once your dog drops the toy reliably, pause before giving the treat. Wait for the drop, then reward, so it learns to release on the word alone.
Practise with different objects, such as a ball, a chew and a soft toy. Do a few short sessions each day rather than one long one.
Add small distractions, like training in another room or with a second toy nearby. Only move on when your dog succeeds most of the time.
Tips and common mistakes
Never pull or pry an item from your dog's mouth, as this can teach guarding. Trade for a treat instead.
Use treats your dog really loves, and keep pieces tiny so you can reward many repetitions.
End each session while your dog is still succeeding, and keep sessions to a few minutes.
If your dog guards items by growling or snapping, stop and get help from a qualified trainer or vet behaviourist.
Questions
How long does it take to teach drop it?
Most dogs start to understand the swap in a few short sessions. A reliable drop around distractions can take several weeks of daily practice.
What if my dog won't give up the toy for a treat?
Try a higher value food, like small pieces of chicken or cheese. Start in a quiet space and keep the object less exciting at first.
Can I use the drop command for things my dog picks up outside?
Yes, but practise at home first. Once it works indoors, try it in the garden, then on quiet walks before busy places.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
