There are many aspects to training your dog to do the right things at the right time. Despite the fact that we mostly train them to follow simple instructions like ‘sit’ and ‘get off the couch,’ we may also need to train them how to ignore dropped items, given that not everything they see on the floor should be investigated at all times.
If you want to be successful in this regard, look no further than our helpful tips below.
1. Use Training Treats
One of the most effective ways to teach your dog to ignore the dropped item is to use treats. Being rewarded is a huge motivator for any dog and is our best bet to get their attention.
In this case, when your dog notices a dropped item, you should reward them for not touching it. Of course, you have to make sure you don’t make this into a game of ‘catch me if you can.’
Either way, you should repeat these steps while praising your dog until they get the idea and begins to ignore the dropped item.
2. Make Sure You Are Present
This may sound silly, but it is incredibly important to be present with your dog whenever you are teaching them new tricks or techniques. Not only will it be easier for you to train them, but it will also be easier for them to get the idea of what is right and what is wrong.
Even if you can’t physically always be there, you can try using a video camera or simply video conferencing to teach your dog the right way to behave.
3. Avoid Giving Them Attention
Dogs are highly social animals. That’s why they love human attention. They will often follow our every move and do whatever we tell them to do. That also means that they will start to notice dropped items when we do.
Instead of telling your dog to ignore dropped items, you can use your actions to lead them away from the item you want them to ignore.
4. Give Them Their Own Toys
This is the most effective method for a lot of reasons. First of all, if your dog already has their own toys, you can use those as a means to distract them from any other dropped item.
On top of that, it will keep your dog busy and out of trouble at the same time.
5. Try Using Look at Me
This method is simple and efficient. You can use it to get your dog’s attention and make them look at you.
When your dog is looking at you, you can praise them and give them a treat. You also have to make sure you’re looking at them before you call their attention. This way, you’ll avoid pulling their attention away from the dropped item, which will eventually lead them to not notice it in the first place.
6. Use the Catching and Capturing Method
To make sure your dog understands this concept, you should give them a treat upon catching them in the act while they are trying to touch or sniff the dropped item. After that, you should immediately distract them by calling their attention to something else.
This way, they will be more motivated to focus their attention on you and ignore the dropped item.
Conclusion
Overall, not everything that falls to the floor is meant to be touched or eaten. Some of these items may have germs or other bacteria on them that we don’t want our dogs to consume.
That’s why you should learn how to train your dog to ignore dropped items at an early age. Not only will it keep them from getting in trouble, but it will also help you keep them healthy and safe.
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