Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 2: Gathering your training materials
• Part 2 of 2: Training your dog to let it go
• Necessities

"Let go" is probably one of the most important commands you can teach your dog. Since dogs love to chew things, you will have ample opportunities to use this command. Let go of that toy. Let go of my shoe. Let go of that stick before you get into the house. Teaching your dog the "let go" command will either let an object fall out of its mouth, or at least allow you to get out easily. So how do you actually teach a dog to "let go"? You will need to condition your dog properly.

To step

Part 1 of 2: Gathering your training materials

1. Choose a toy. Choose a toy that your dog can easily hold in his mouth and that he likes to play with. A stuffed squeaky toy or a dog bone is a good choice. In the bigger picture, it doesn't matter much what kind of toy you give your dog, because you are going to teach him to let it go anyway.
2. Get tasty treats for dogs. You need treats that your dog likes better than his toy. It's important to keep in mind a value system that your dog will want to follow. A tasty treat is worth more to a dog than a dog toy. These can be your dog's normal rewards or special rewards for training. Dogs love rewards, turkey, chicken or cheese. Make sure to keep the amounts very small as you will be using them regularly during the training sessions.
3. Choose a trigger, for example a clicker. In the early 20th century, Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov discovered that dogs can be taught to "expect" food at the sound of a bell. This "neutral stimulus" - the sound of the bell - caused the dog to drool and expect food. You can use the same principle here. Choose something that is portable and makes a noise. Many people use clickers, which literally only make a clicking sound. You can even consider using a sound file on your phone.
4. Get your belt. If your dog tends to run away with his toys, it may be a good idea to keep him on a leash during your training. Otherwise, you will have to keep it in an enclosed area with minimal distraction. Your goal is to focus your dog's attention on training, not play.
5. Have patience. You will have to have realistic expectations. Yes, your dog may be able to learn a basic command in a day or so, but it is much more realistic to expect small, but noticeable, improvements.

Part 2 of 2: Training your dog to let it go

1. Start the training when your dog is about three months old. One session should last about fifteen minutes, and you can do up to three sessions spread over the day. Usually sessions should be shorter the younger the dog is due to a limited attention span.
2. Give your dog a toy. Make sure you have the toy in one hand and a treat in the other. Hold the toy in front of the dog's mouth. Wait while your dog smells and handles it. You can even tell your dog to "get" it. This way, your dog will learn to handle things as well as let go in the process. Always use the same command.
3. Say "let go" and give a treat. Again, make sure to use the same command every time. You can repeat the command a number of times, but don't use it too often. Place the treat in front of your dog's nose. Hopefully - if you chose the treat correctly - your dog would let go of the toy and eat the treat.
   • If you've decided to use a trigger, now is the time to use it. When you say let go, click with the clicker. Make sure it happens at the same time so your dog will "let go" and associate the clicker sound with getting a treat.
   • Make sure to use an assertive tone, but stay calm. You don't want to yell at your dog and scare him.
4. Repeat the process. Hold the toy up until your dog takes it. Say "let go" while pressing the clicker, then offer a treat. As you practice this, move further and further away from the dog. This way, your dog will expect a treat as soon as he hears the command or click. You don't want your dog to follow the command only when you are right in front of him.
5. Practice in different environments with different articles. You want to refine your dog's understanding of the command as much as possible. Remember dogs are smart. Your dog may only associate the command with his toys or specific places. You will want to teach your dog the command both indoors and outdoors. Offer your dog several things. If your dog really enjoys walking around with a specific thing in his mouth, train him with that article.
   • Always use acceptable chews when practicing "let go". You don't want to encourage your dog to grab and release something that you otherwise don't want him to take. For example, if your dog likes to chew on your shoes, don't use your shoes to teach him this trick. Eventually, he may come to associate chewing your shoes with getting a treat.
6. Constantly reinforce your training. You never know when a learning moment will announce itself. Keep treats and the clicker / trigger handy. If you don't have a treat, offer your dog something of greater value. For example, swap the television remote for a dog toy.

Necessities

• A few things your dog would like to chew on.
• Training clicker for dogs.
• Various rewards made from ingredients such as cheese or turkey.