How to Get Your Dog to Release a Toy

If you want to get your dog to release a toy, you have to offer him something he'll want even more. While your dog may love hearing you praise him warmly and feeling you pet him affectionately, additional positive reinforcement may be needed to get him to drop a toy he's holding. Food is a highly effective dog-training tool if used consistently. When using food to motivate your dog, it's best to conduct a training session at a time of day when your dog is likely to be hungry and almost ready for his next meal.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Toss around your dog's toy to get him interested in it. Make sure the dog treats are in another room. Once your dog has possession of his toy and won't release it, leave the room to get a handful of dog treats.

    • 2

      Approach your dog, holding a treat for him to see. If he immediately begins to drop his toy and come toward you for the treat, say, "Drop it" as soon as he begins to release his toy. Give your dog the treat and immediately lavish him with verbal praise while petting him. Repeat this sequence of steps at least three more times and then every day, again, for about a week.

    • 3

      Try persuading your dog to release his toy without receiving a food treat. After about a week of practicing with food treats, allow your dog to take possession of his toy for a few minutes. Stand in front of him and say, "Drop it," in a firm voice. Repeat the command, if necessary. Your dog should release his toy and approach you. Warmly praise him, petting him affectionately for obeying.

    • 4

      Increase the value of the treat if your dog resists releasing his toy. Use peanut butter or real meat to make the treat more enticing.

    • 5

      Assist your dog in releasing the toy if necessary. Some dogs are very possessive and will not surrender their toys easily. Hold out the treat and gently approach your dog, moving the treat closer to his mouth. Gently take hold of the toy with your free hand while moving the treat right in front of the dog's mouth. Say, "Drop it," in a firm voice; while pulling the toy slowly and lightly. Praise your dog effusively when he opens his mouth to release the toy and eat the treat. Repeat this scenario several times and then every day, again, for about a week before attempting to train without food treats.

    • 6

      Use a food treat again, after your dog demonstrates he can release his dog toy on command without a food treat. Continue the training session for a few times each day, using plenty of verbal reinforcement and physical affection each time. Use food treats only every other time, or every few times. You can eventually persuade your dog to release a toy, on command, without using food treats.