Give is also useful for teaching your dog to bring you… anything! Your keys, shoes, their leash, whatever!

This method works best for dogs who are already naturally good at retrieving items. I have a more in-depth protocol for those breeds who may struggle with this version.

Step 1: Throw a toy just a couple feet away for the dog to go grab

Step 2:. Hold one hand out, ready to take the toy, and hold a treat behind it so the dog does not see the treat

Step 3: As soon as the dog touches the toy to your flat hand, mark, then reward with the treat

Step 4: As the dog opens their mouth to take the treat, gently grab the toy that’s already in your hand, and move it out of the way

Step 5: Repeat until your dog is releasing the toy in your hand easily, then you can start fading the treats out