When to Add a Cue
“Leave it” is a must for all dogs, not only will they ignore spilled medication on the ground, but it’s also a great skill to teach self-control. Learn how to teach your dog to leave it using quick and effective steps.
If You Missed Step 1
If you missed step 1, which demonstrates the beginning stage of teaching “leave it,” check it out here. Don’t rush when teaching a behavior. Step 1 is laying the foundation, and a strong foundation supports a new behavior. This is especially important for energetic dogs. 🙂
If, at anytime, your dog becomes confused, go back to step 1. Do know, it’s perfectly normal to take a step back. Think about learning algebra. It’s pretty important to understand what “x and y” mean, right?
Why Add the Cue Later?
Excellent question! I recommend adding a cue once a dog will offer the behavior 80% of the time. By adding the cue later, you’re removing any confusion plus it’s quicker and faster. I’ll give you a scenario to illustrate this point.
Let’s say I’m teaching you a new behavior and I begin by saying “retour.” You’re totally confused because you don’t speak German so you freeze and look at me for help. Instead, I repeatedly say “retour, retour, retour, retour, retour” while getting louder and louder. Does this help your confusion? Probably not.
If I dangle a $100 bill on your nose and lure you backwards while saying “retour, retour, retour, retour,” would that help? A bit, as you’re pairing “retour” with a $100 bill and maybe moving backwards. Now, be honest, all the “retour” babbling probably is distracting you, as I’m getting louder and louder, right? It’s like turning down the car radio when navigating a new route through dense traffic. That’s why we refrain from saying the cue. In the beginning stages, let’s allow your dog to concentrate.
Now, if I clicked and gave you a $100 bill every time your left foot stepped backwards, you’ll start to understand. Once you’ve practiced moving your left foot back several times while being clicked and treated, you’ll feel pretty darn confident. Now, I’ll say “retour” and wait. I’m waiting for you to take a step back with your left foot. Once that left foot moves back, I click and give you another $100. We practice a few more times and soon you’ll pair “retour” with stepping back with your left foot. Voila!
And if you have not Googled it yet, “retour” means “back” in German. 🙂
How to Add the Cue
Once your dog ignores your hand while holding a treat next to his nose 80% of the time, it’s time to add the cue. Say “leave it” as you’re moving your hand in front of your dog’s nose. Click and treat when they ignore your hand.
Tips
- Say cue once. Repetition is confusing and remember all that “retour” babble. 🙂
- Give cue as you’re moving your hand toward your dog.
