Communicating Learning to “Leave it”
Being able to set and communicate boundaries is one of the most important roles that you play as your dog’s pack leader. If you hear a low growl or see the dog dominating the toy with his whole body, or if he’s ripping at it as if he wants to kill it, it is time for you to step in.
Communicating “Leave It” Without Words:
The Concept of Owning Your Own Space
Claiming space means using your body, your mind, and your energy to “own” what you would like to control. You create an invisible circle of space around a person, place, or thing that belongs to you—a space that the dog cannot enter without your permission.
When you want to claim space, commit 100% to projecting an invisible line around the space or object you do not want your dog to go near. Say to yourself, “This is my sofa, “ or “This is my ball.” You are having verbal conversation with yourself and psychological/energy conversation with your dog.
Never pull your hand or any object away from your dog, and never pull your dog away from a place, person, or object. When you pull things away from your dog, you’re either inviting her to compete for it or you’re inviting her to play. This only increases the dog’s prey drive and ups her excitement level. Instead, step calmly and assertively toward the dog, making firm eye contact, until the dog sits back or relaxes.
In order to get the dog to drop an object, you must first claim it with your mind and your energy. You cannot be hesitant, and you must be totally clear about your intention. Don’t hesitate or plead with your dog, either mentally or verbally. Do not repeat a command such as “Leave it!” if it is heeded the first time. Your dog will not take it personally. She shouldn’t have a problem giving you what she now knows belongs to you.