How to Get a Golden Retriever to Drop an Object

Many golden retrievers love to play fetch and it can be very frustrating if you have to chase them or play tug-o-war to get the toy back. Therefore, "drop it" is an important command to teach your dog. It can also be used if your golden retriever tries to eat something he should not have. Golden retrievers are bred to retrieve items so this is a command to perfect early in your dog's life. It is a relatively simple command to teach.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pick your golden retriever's favorite treat to use as a reward. Initially, you will need the food item to bribe your dog into dropping an object in order to get the treat.

    • 2

      Give your golden retriever a toy and start to play. Play a few rounds of fetch or tug-o-war for a few minutes.

    • 3

      State firmly the command "drop it" or whatever version you want to use with your golden retriever. Offer your golden retriever food for the toy. When your golden retriever drops the toy, allow her to take the treats and provide praise to her.

    • 4

      Repeat the steps as many times as necessary until your golden retriever is consistent with obeying the command.

    • 5

      Practice the command with your golden retriever without offering the food. Reward your golden retriever with a treat afterward if he obeys the command.

    • 6

      State the command without a treat reward. If your golden retriever obeys, reward her with praise.

    • 7

      Practice with your golden retriever in different situations and with different objects.