PURPOSE: To teach your dog to relinquish an item upon cue.
1. When your dog has a toy in his mouth (something he is allowed to have), present him/her with a food treat as a trade.
2. When your dog becomes accustomed to this trade, say “give” just slightly before presenting the food trade.
3. Over time, your dog will learn that the word give means he/she will get a food reward. When you’re ready to test if your dog has learned the new word, hesitate a few seconds between saying “give” and before presenting the food trade. If he drops the item, reward him/her. If not, repeat the word and offer the food trade as before.