How to Teach a Lab to Drop It

Labradors retrievers are the most popular dogs in the U.S., according to the American Kennel Club. Families enjoy their gentle and playful nature, and hunters appreciate their intelligence and natural retrieving abilities. Labradors, commonly referred to as Labs, are energetic, and they need to be exercised regularly. Playing fetch with a stick or a Frisbee is a common way to exercise your Lab, but it can be frustrating if you can't get your pet to drop his prize once he has fetched it. There are a few tips for training your Lab to "drop it."

Things You'll Need

  • Dog toy
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hand your Lab a dog toy or get him to fetch it by throwing it for him.

    • 2

      Call your Lab to you, or approach him if he is still learning to come when called. Hold out your hand with a dog treat in it and let him see the treat.

    • 3

      In a firm voice, tell him to "drop it" or give him a hand signal such as pointing at the ground. Let him keep the treat in sight, but do not give it to him until he is willing to drop the toy.

    • 4

      Praise your Lab lavishly both with words and affirmative pats when he drops the toy. Continue to reward your dog with treats and praise until he learns to drop whatever he has on command alone.