Drop: Introducing the Drop Cue

• Hold a treat behind your back in a closed fist.
• Play a little tug with the toy.
• After several seconds, say “drop” and produce your treat hand (closed) right next to your dog’s muzzle.
• When he releases the toy:
  • Take the toy and hide it behind your back.
  • Open your hand and let him take the treat.
• Once he’s swallowed the treat, give the toy back and start playing again.
• Play for at least 30-45 seconds and repeat the exercise.
• End the exercise with your dog in possession of the toy.

Once your dog has the hang of this and is dropping every time:

• Start the game as before, but this time day drop before you produce your hand.
• Give your dog a second to release the toy.  If he doesn’t, produce your hand as before.
• Try again, but instead of putting the treat hand next to his muzzle produce it several inches away.
• Practice this for a few days, and then try again by saying “drop” and not producing your hand for several seconds.
• If he still fails to release the toy before you produce your hand, on the next round, say “drop” and bring your hand in front of your body but not as close and repeat this for a few sessions.
• Try again to get him to drop before  you produce your hand.
• If he doesn’t, build in baby steps, moving you hand farther and farther from his muzzle until he is ready to drop the toy with your hand still behind your back.

IMPORTANT:  Make sure you are playing with this toy outside of training.  Otherwise he will decide to quit picking it up and just look at  you for treats, and he will no longer play with it.